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No. 79 Lavender Park Road, Eltham sold for $2.33m.

A beloved family home the kids kept coming back to has sold in Eltham.

The architect-designed mid-century modern home at 79 Lavender Park Road sold for $2.33m, well above the price guide of $1.9-$2.09m.

Built in the early ‘60s and featuring original timber ceilings, floorboards and cabinetry, the property was designed to maintain privacy while still offering views from every room.

And it was those features at the seven-bedroom house that the children of the sellers couldn’t get enough of, continually returning to the family home.

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The house has no blinds but still retains complete privacy.

It was designed and built by architect John Adams

“They would always come back home, it took (the owners) years to get the kids out of the property,” joked Buckingham and Company director Stuart Buckingham.

“In between buying homes and relationships, they’d come back to mum and dad’s place — it was a beautiful thing.”

Five groups had a “red hot go at bidding” during the online auction, Mr Buckingham said.

Mid-century modern style in the 1960s-built Eltham house.

Original floorboards and ceiling timber panels in the updated kitchen.

The house was popular with inner-city buyers.

Every room in the mid-century modern house has green views.

Buyers from the inner city were drawn in by the home’s architectural style, privacy and views.

An updated five-bedroom weatherboard house at 8 Meyer Rd, Burwood attracted a downsizer that watched the virtual tour 20 times after passing in at auction two weeks ago.

The buyer paid the $1.785m asking price after telling Fletchers Waverley partner Steven Zervas that she “didn’t like negotiating”.

A Malvern downsizer secured 8 Meyer Road, Burwood.

The buyer watched the virtual tour 20 times.

Outdoor entertaining in the single-level home.

Receiving the acceptable offer prompted the vendor to “burst into tears”, after watching the property pass in for $1.73m a fortnight earlier, Mr Zervas said.

“It felt like it was too good to be true, but it wasn’t, it all worked out really well,” he said.

The Malvern downsizer spoke to a building inspector that had been through the property ahead of the recent auction for another bidder, as the agency worked to ensure transparency during the stage four lockdown.

In Ringwood, a two-bedroom townhouse at 9/3 Gordon Court sold for a $125,800 premium to a buyer that hadn’t viewed the property in person.

A two-bedroom townhouse at 9/3 Gordon Court, Ringwood sold for $725,800.

Inside the Ringwood townhouse.

Despite their reliance on vendor photography and virtual inspections, the buyers happily paid $725,800 for the site.

“The purchasers haven’t seen it but they have already sold their place so they needed to buy,” Ray White Ringwood director Chris Watson said.

The buyers’ son Jackson said his parents were not put off by being unable to attend the property live.

“They knew the location very well and the virtual tour sent through by Chris gave them the confidence to bid at auction without seeing the house,” Jackson said.

“They thought the pandemic would give them the opportunity to purchase a property at a good price and are really relieved they don’t have to continue looking for a home during restrictions.”

READ MORE: Ballarat’s most expensive sales dominated by Lake Wendouree houses

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jack.boronovskis@news.com.au

@jackboronovskis

The post Eltham house kids refused to leave sells, as virtual tours satisfy buyers appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

Everyday life has a feeling of turmoil at the moment, so it’s no wonder we’re placing greater emphasis on the feel and safety of our homes and properties.

Speaking from experience, I can say I’ve never spent more time in my backyard and garden as I have this year.

It seems I’m not alone, with many homeowners looking to integrate their indoor spaces with the outdoors to create calming havens away from the stress of day-to-day living.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

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When it comes to building a new home on a courtyard allotment that incorporates these features, one design that does it extremely well is Gallery Living’s Picasso 250.

Measuring 14.2m wide and 24.3m deep, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom, double garage design offers a peaceful retreat for families looking to upgrade their lifestyle.

From the moment you walk into the home, which is on display at Miravale at Angle Vale, a feeling of calm sweeps over your body and mind.

Gallery Living’s marketing manager Jaye Smith says this relaxing effect is largely due to the amount of natural light that floods the design, created by the mono pitch roofline, angled to take advantage of the northern aspect.

“The Picasso 250 is designed to capture and distribute natural light throughout the home, particularly in the open-plan living area,” she says.

“With its soaring raked ceiling, highlight windows and wide opening sliding doors seamlessly connecting with the side yard, this home gives its owners all the benefits and mood brightening that sunlight brings into a home, all year round.”

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

It’s not often I find myself struggling to leave a room when visiting a display, however the Picasso 250’s master suite has a certain charm, and again it’s all to do with the light.

“The master bedroom is located at the front of the home, with a spacious ensuite, featuring a Velux skylight to allow light to flow into the room but retain privacy,” Jaye says.

The addition of a wall-to-wall built-in robe provides a discreetly functional element to a room that feels nothing short of tranquil, which is just what you should hope for in a bedroom.

Move back towards the main living space, you’ll find there’s also a private lounge and a home office – a space which will make working from home something to look forward to.

However, the main attraction in this design is undoubtedly the long open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, which features a high, angled ceiling.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

This part of the home has a skillion roof, measuring 3.6m at its highest point, taking the spacious feel to a whole new level. That together with the abundance of high windows and sliding doors creates a light-flooded haven. The structural elements in this space also lend to the comforting ambience, as does the colour palette and furnishings.

“The interior has a crisp white internal paint palette which highlights the architectural elements within the home,” Jaye says.

“The soft furnishings pick up on the earthy tones of the external colour scheme, with natural elements like leather and wood, complemented by the statement pops of dark olive green.”

An interesting feature in this space is the use of a carpeted segment in the living area, a cosy contrast to the stylish Quickstep compact flooring in cliff grey oak, extra matt, which covers the rest of the space.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

“Installing a carpeted section to the lounge area makes the area cosy underfoot and helps to define the space and make it feel larger,” Jaye says.

Keen entertainers will love the amount of space and storage on offer in the sleek galley kitchen, complete with a handy double sided breakfast bar at one end for mealtime. Overlooking the alfresco (optional), this part of the home will completely open to the yard – perfect for making the most of the warmer months ahead.

The remaining two bedrooms are down another hallway beside the kitchen, both with built-in robes and proximity to the laundry and main bathroom.

For home builders looking for inspiration, visiting the Miravale display is a must. Jaye says this display offers an inspirational delivery of the design, showcasing how non-standard items can transform the home.

“The display at Miravale includes some architectural upgrades, like additional dropped ceilings, bulkheads and window upgrades, as well as smaller fixture and fittings upgrades like tapware, kitchen appliances and benchtops,” she says.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

Picasso 250 by Gallery Living on display at Angle Vale. Photo: Nick Clayton.

On face value, the Picasso 250 is a beautiful family home that offers a relaxed retreat from the outside world. However, it’s important to not look past the array of energy efficient features.

“All Gallery Living homes come with integrated solar power included in the price,” Jaye says. “We make sure your new home takes advantage of the natural environment, for better energy efficiency and a lower carbon footprint.

“The orientation of your block is integral to the long-term performance of your home, so we will work closely with you to make the most of your asset and create the most comfortable environment possible.”

The post Gallery Living’s Picasso 250 offers a sense of calm like no other appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Melburnians geared up to buy or rent a new home in spring are no doubt feeling disappointed about the state of the city’s real estate market amid stage four lockdown. 

Under the strict rules put in place to control a surge in COVID-19 cases, in-person open for inspections and live auctions are banned until at least mid-September and may only be carried out online.

Melbourne residents must remain within a five-kilometre radius of their home and are only allowed to leave their homes for four reasons, one being to enjoy an hour of exercise a day.

While it seems impossible to start planning your next move given the current limitations, recent Australia Post data suggests otherwise, showing that most Australians simply hop, skip or jump to the next suburb when they move out. Therefore, a one-hour stroll within your five-kilometre radius is the perfect opportunity to scout out your next home.

• Use the interactive below to discover the Melbourne suburbs that fall within your 5km radius

Melbourne buyer’s advocate and president of The Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA), Cate Bakos, said discovering a potential new neighbourhood on foot is extremely important. 

“I still do it myself as a buyer’s advocate when I’m exploring a new suburb to get intimate with,” Ms Bakos said. “Walking the streets not only enables the prospective buyer to get a feel for the character of the housing, but also the character of the neighbourhood.

Discovering a neighbourhood on foot helps prospective buyers get a feel for its character. Picture: Getty

“Slowing down to five kilometres per hour allows a visitor to take in the types of residents – kids’ bikes on the porch, dogs barking, pretty gardens. This character is easily missed when driving past at 50 kilometres per hour.

“It’s also more natural to walk around the streets zig-zagging than to drive in this manner. Also, walking around the local shops and cafe strips gives a better snapshot of the character of the area and the personalities that bring it to life.”

What house hunters need to consider

One of the best things about walking is that you can meander and “get off the beaten track”, said chief economist at realestate.com.au, Nerida Conisbee.

“Exploring different paths is worthwhile because you might not have had the time previously to really get to know your neighbourhood,” Ms Conisbee said.

Ms Conisbee suggested four things house hunters should take into consideration when re-discovering their five-kilometre radius:

1. Walkability

Buying a home that’s easily navigable by foot can add significant value to the property in the long term. Meantime, it’s important for potential tenants to have easy access to simple amenities such as public transport, shops, parks, cafes, restaurants and schools. This is particularly important in neighbourhoods in and around the CBD where car spaces are limited. 

“Walkable neighbourhoods are far more desirable so I think that’s a great thing to test on foot because there’s no better way to find out,” said Ms Conisbee.

The best way to determine the walkability of an area is on foot. Picture: Getty

2. Public amenities

Ms Conisbee said having good public amenities nearby such as schools, public transport options and retail outlets will always add value to a property in the long term.

Meanwhile, prospective tenants should assess what amenities they need when considering their next move, and walking around a potential neighbourhood can help with this, she said.

3. Attractiveness

Looks aren’t everything but the general attractiveness of a neighbourhood’s landscaping and architecture can add value to a property in the long term.

“Tree-lined streets, garden beds, aesthetically pleasing properties as well as clean and well-lit footpaths are all things to look out for,” Ms Conisbee said. 

4. Noise

Ms Conisbee said it’s a very good idea to get a sense of what is going on at different times of the day in a neighbourhood so you can determine how noisy it would be if you lived there.

“Sometimes neighbourhoods can be very quiet during the day but very noisy at night, so it can be quite a good idea to walk around at different times of the day, within curfew hours, of course,” she said.

Keep an eye out for unique features

Even if you’ve lived in a neighbourhood for decades there are bound to be hidden gems that have slipped under your radar, all of which add to the desirability of an area in terms on investment outcomes.

The inner west suburb of Yarraville is a haven for street art. Picture: Getty

Ms Bakos said many suburbs have walking paths that don’t allow access for cars such as dead-end streets that lead to lovely parks and gardens.

“There is a beautiful part of my own suburb that is a great case in point – Maryston Street in Yarraville is one of the streets that leads to Cruikshank Park. The walking trails are glorious and the locals love taking their kids and dogs to the park. You can easily meander around the park and back onto a connecting street, something you’d never be able to do in a car.

“Another beautiful highlight for pedestrians are skinny rear laneways. My daughter and I have discovered so many of the old bluestone night cart runs [in Yarraville].

“My favourite element is the street art. We have some great pockets around the inner west with amazing street art.”

Keep in touch with local agents

Matthew Pillios, director at Marshall White – Bayside, said walking the streets in your five-kilometre radius is the best way to get a gauge of what is coming up in the area post-lockdown.

“Construction has not stopped, it might have slowed down but it has not stopped. So I say to everybody, if you see something being constructed, give me a call because more than likely if we haven’t got the listing we may be getting it,” Mr Pillios said.

“Also if you see someone doing a hard rubbish collection or doing some sprucing up, like painting the outside of their houses, they could be coming up for sale,” he added.

Mr Pillios said it’s imperative that prospective buyers make contact with local agents because circumstances, particularly in the current climate, can change and you might find your dream home, in your dream neighbourhood pops up for sale.

“This is the time to contact us more than ever to let us know what streets or pockets that you want because ultimately there will be people that never planned to sell, who need to sell,” he explained.

Buyers should get ready for spring

Robert Enes, of Nelson Alexander – Northcote, said prospective Melbourne home buyers should use the downtime during lockdown to get ready for what is sure to be an “enormous” spring selling season.

“There’s a lot to look forward to because we haven’t had stock for a while and there’s a lot of stock coming on [to the market]. So we’ve actually been very busy during this lockdown getting new properties ready to go to the market come early to mid-September once we are able to operate again,” Mr Enes said.

Melbourne’s property market is expected to bounce back to life post-lockdown. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

“What’s been really telling with other markets overseas in recent times has been that post-severe lockdown, such as the one we’re experiencing right now, the markets have actually rebounded really strongly once they have re-opened, and what we mean by that is pricing and competitive scenarios with the buying of homes.

“Just the way [the market] was before lockdown suggests that there’s a lot of new buyers entering the market and getting loans. We’re very, very optimistic that spring is going to be enormous.”

The post Meandering your 5km radius could help you find your next home appeared first on realestate.com.au.

Melburnians geared up to buy or rent a new home in spring are no doubt feeling disappointed about the state of the city’s real estate market amid stage four lockdown. 

Under the strict rules put in place to control a surge in COVID-19 cases, in-person open for inspections and live auctions are banned until at least mid-September and may only be carried out online.

Melbourne residents must remain within a five-kilometre radius of their home and are only allowed to leave their homes for four reasons, one being to do an hour of exercise a day.

While it seems impossible to start planning your next move given the current limitations, recent Australia Post data suggests otherwise, showing that most Australians simply hop, skip or jump to the next suburb when they move out. Therefore, a one-hour walk within your five-kilometre radius is the perfect opportunity to scout out your next home.

• Use the interactive below to discover the Melbourne suburbs that fall within your 5km radius

Melbourne buyer’s advocate and president of The Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA), Cate Bakos, said discovering a potential new neighbourhood on foot is extremely important. 

“I still do it myself as a buyer’s advocate when I’m exploring a new suburb to get intimate with,” Ms Bakos said. “Walking the streets not only enables the prospective buyer to get a feel for the character of the housing, but also the character of the neighbourhood.

Discovering a neighbourhood on foot helps prospective buyers get a feel for its character. Picture: Getty

“Slowing down to five kilometres per hour allows a visitor to take in the types of residents – kids’ bikes on the porch, dogs barking, pretty gardens. This character is easily missed when driving past at 50 kilometres per hour.

“It’s also more natural to walk around the streets zig-zagging than to drive in this manner. Also, walking around the local shops and cafe strips gives a better snapshot of the character of the area and the personalities that bring it to life.”

What house hunters need to consider

One of the best things about walking is that you can meander and “get off the beaten track”, said chief economist at realestate.com.au, Nerida Conisbee.

“Exploring different paths is worthwhile because you might not have had the time previously to really get to know your neighbourhood,” Ms Conisbee said.

Ms Conisbee suggested four things house hunters should take into consideration when re-discovering their five-kilometre radius:

1. Walkability

Buying a home that’s easily navigable by foot can add significant value to the property in the long term. Meantime, it’s important for potential tenants to have easy access to simple amenities such as public transport, shops, parks, cafes, restaurants and schools. This is particularly important in neighbourhoods in and around the CBD where car spaces are limited. 

“Walkable neighbourhoods are far more desirable so I think that’s a great thing to test on foot because there’s no better way to find out,” said Ms Conisbee.

The best way to determine the walkability of an area is on foot. Picture: Getty

2. Public amenities

Ms Conisbee said having good public amenities nearby such as schools, public transport options and retail outlets will always add value to a property in the long term.

Meanwhile, prospective tenants should assess what amenities they need when considering their next move, and walking around a potential neighbourhood can help with this, she said.

3. Attractiveness

Looks aren’t everything but the general attractiveness of a neighbourhood’s landscaping and architecture can add value to a property in the long term.

“Tree-lined streets, garden beds, aesthetically pleasing properties as well as clean and well-lit footpaths are all things to look out for,” Ms Conisbee said. 

4. Noise

Ms Conisbee said it’s a very good idea to get a sense of what is going on at different times of the day in a neighbourhood so you can determine how noisy it would be if you lived there.

“Sometimes neighbourhoods can be very quiet during the day but very noisy at night, so it can be quite a good idea to walk around at different times of the day, within curfew hours, of course,” she said.

Keep an eye out for unique features

Even if you’ve lived in a neighbourhood for decades there are bound to be hidden gems that have slipped under your radar, all of which add to the desirability of an area in terms on investment outcomes.

The inner west suburb of Yarraville is a haven for street art. Picture: Getty

Ms Bakos said many suburbs have walking paths that don’t allow access for cars such as dead-end streets that lead to lovely parks and gardens.

“There is a beautiful part of my own suburb that is a great case in point – Maryston Street in Yarraville is one of the streets that leads to Cruikshank Park. The walking trails are glorious and the locals love taking their kids and dogs to the park. You can easily meander around the park and back onto a connecting street, something you’d never be able to do in a car.

“Another beautiful highlight for pedestrians are skinny rear laneways. My daughter and I have discovered so many of the old bluestone night cart runs [in Yarraville].

“My favourite element is the street art. We have some great pockets around the inner west with amazing street art.”

Keep in touch with local agents

Matthew Pillios, director at Marshall White – Bayside, said walking the streets in your five-kilometre radius is the best way to get a gauge of what is coming up in the area post-lockdown.

“Construction has not stopped, it might have slowed down but it has not stopped. So I say to everybody, if you see something being constructed, give me a call because more than likely if we haven’t got the listing we may be getting it,” Mr Pillios said.

“Also if you see someone doing a hard rubbish collection or doing some sprucing up, like painting the outside of their houses, they could be coming up for sale,” he added.

Mr Pillios said it’s imperative that prospective buyers make contact with local agents because circumstances, particularly in the current climate, can change and you might find your dream home, in your dream neighbourhood pops up for sale.

“This is the time to contact us more than ever to let us know what streets or pockets that you want because ultimately there will be people that never planned to sell, who need to sell,” he explained.

Buyers should get ready for spring

Robert Enes, of Nelson Alexander – Northcote, said prospective Melbourne home buyers should use the downtime during lockdown to get ready for what is sure to be an “enormous” spring selling season.

“There’s a lot to look forward to because we haven’t had stock for a while and there’s a lot of stock coming on [to the market]. So we’ve actually been very busy during this lockdown getting new properties ready to go to the market come early to mid-September once we are able to operate again,” Mr Enes said.

Melbourne’s property market is expected to bounce back to life post-lockdown. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

“What’s been really telling with other markets overseas in recent times has been that post-severe lockdown, such as the one we’re experiencing right now, the markets have actually rebounded really strongly once they have re-opened, and what we mean by that is pricing and competitive scenarios with the buying of homes.

“Just the way [the market] was before lockdown suggests that there’s a lot of new buyers entering the market and getting loans. We’re very, very optimistic that spring is going to be enormous.”

The post How rediscovering your 5km radius could help you find your next home appeared first on realestate.com.au.

37 The Boulevard, Balwyn North sold to buyers who hadn’t physically inspected it.

Melburnians are buying homes they’ve never set foot in amid the stage four lockdown.

With physical inspections banned under the city’s tough COVID-19 restrictions, a family spent more than $1.825m on a Balwyn North house after viewing it only via the marketing photos and a video filmed by the vendors.

Jellis Craig Hawthorn agent Nick O’Halloran said he finalised the off-market sale of 37 The Boulevard for an undisclosed price while at the Epworth Freemasons hospital, where his wife had just had a baby.

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Selling agent Nick O’Halloran finalised the Balwyn North sale from a maternity ward.

The Balwyn North home sold to a local family.

“It was a big 24 hours,” Mr O’Halloran said.

“We listed the property earlier in the year, and had photos and a floorplan done. But the vendors were reluctant to actually put it on the market.

“We were going to load it on the internet coming out of the restrictions.”

Instead, a buyer who had sold their home and was “looking for this type of property” emerged and the deal was done a few days later, Mr O’Halloran said.

“They got a good enough feel of the house from the photos, the video and the floorplan,” he said.

“Vendors who have been coming to market (during the pandemic) are normally rewarded, if they meet the market. It’s not the sort of market where you want to search for an inflated price.”

A first-home buyer was so taken by 1/33 Grice Crescent, Essendon she bought it sight-unseen.

The villa unit featured a charming courtyard.

In Essendon, a first-home buyer snapped up a two-bedroom villa unit at 1/33 Grice Crescent sight-unseen for $670,000.

Brad Teal Essendon agent Lara Harris said the home had been on the market for three weeks before the stage four lockdown with “no traction”. Then the Greenvale-based buyer called, having been drawn in by the public transport-rich location.

“I took a video prior to lockdown, just on my iPhone, so the buyer could get more of a feel for it,” Ms Harris said.

“She put in an offer … without seeing it — she’d driven past it but never set foot in the property. The contracts were signed electronically.

“One week into lockdown, I had the deal done within a couple of hours as I was sitting on the couch.”

Inside 1/33 Grice Crescent.

Ms Harris said the vendor agreed to a “realistic” sale price, and the buyer planned to move in once restrictions eased.

The agent said she “couldn’t wait” for spring, with so many listings “waiting to drop” once stage four was over.

Melbourne buyers also secured a 4.86ha rural retreat in Eganstown, west of Daylesford, for an undisclosed figure close to the $1.395m asking price this week.

Belle Daylesford director Will Walton said the purchasers had a friend who lived in the region who advised them on the local market and contacted his office on their behalf.

Melbourne buyers have snapped up 51 Corinella Creek Lane, Eganstown.

The Eganstown retreat sprawled across 4.86ha.

They later bought the picturesque property at 51 Corinella Creek Lane, featuring a four-bedroom house and a separate cottage, without a physical inspection, feeling “confident from knowing the quality of the location and seeing the photos on the internet”.

Mr Walton said his agency sold a “personal best” 30 properties in July as the pandemic prompted Melbourne buyers to up their already significant presence in the Daylesford region.

But the stage four restrictions had killed this momentum by preventing Melburnians from travelling to regional Victoria to inspect homes.

“We’re expecting an enormous surge after the lockdown is lifted,” he said.

MORE: Regional Victoria property markets hit by ban on Melbourne buyers

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The picturesque property near Daylesford featured a separate cottage.

samantha.landy@news.com.au

The post Melbourne stage four restrictions prompt sight-unseen sales appeared first on realestate.com.au.

White collar nomads are driving up the price of regional real estate, with suburbs between Tweed Heads and East Ballina now home to the most expensive property outside of the city.

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a surge in demand for a sea or tree change among city workers, with unprecedented focus on the Tweed-Richmond area.

New data from realestate.com.au shows that real estate in the Byron Shire village of Bangalow, 50 minutes south of Coolangatta, is the second most-viewed suburb in NSW since the COVID-19 crisis struck.

40 Blackwood Crescent, Bangalow sold for $1.05 million.

Between April and July, the top 10 most-viewed NSW hit list also included Byron Bay, East Ballina, Casuarina, Kingscliff, Lennox Head, Tweed Heads, Bogangar and Terranora.

“Since COVID-19 lockdowns began, there has been an interesting shift in search activity to regional NSW,” said REA Chief Economist Nerida Conisbee.

“The Richmond-Tweed appeal appears to be driven by white collar nomads, released from the shackles of their CBD offices.

“The laid-back lifestyle that can now be more permanently obtained, given hardly anyone is going into the office, is likely to be driving demand and prices.”

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8 Eclipse Lane, Casuarina sold for $2.57 million.

Anyone hoping to get a bargain by the beach or up in the hills in all out of luck.

Prices for houses and units in Richmond-Tweed have increased since mid-March, with half of the most-viewed suburbs recording a median house price of $1 million plus.

The median house price in Bangalow reached $1.05 million last month, keeping good company with nearby Byron Bay where the median is $1.43 million and the beachside pocket of Suffolk Park where houses will set you back around $1.2 million.

On the Tweed Coast, houses in the exclusive beachside enclave of Casuarina have a median of $1.152 million while houses in Kingscliff have hit a median sale price of $1.175 million.

“This is expensive for regional Australia and is being driven by Sydney money,” Ms Conisbee said.

“Affordability is a problem for existing regional residents and COVID isn’t improving things.”

295 Coopers Shoot Road, Coopers Shoot sold for $3.6 million.

Braden Walters, principal of Belle Property Byron Bay-Lennox Head, said interest in the region had soared in the wake of COVID-19, led by motivated buyers from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

“With the border closures, we’re mainly dealing with Sydney buyers at the moment because they’re the only ones who can physically inspect,” he said.

“Our Brisbane and Melbourne people are still looking via virtual inspection.”

Mr Walters said agents in regional pockets all along the East Coast had reported a similar surge in demand.

“We’re competing with other regional coastal towns for those buyers,” he said.

The post White collar nomads drive up regional real estate prices appeared first on realestate.com.au.

The house boasts 270-degree hinterland views.

A magical estate offering lifetime access to Byron Bay’s home of healing energy, Crystal Castle, is expected to attract widespread interest when it hits the market today.

A portion of the original holding known as Crystal Estate is being sold by Crystal Castle founders and owners Naren and Sono King.

The magical Crystal Estate in the Byron Hinterland is scheduled for auction on September 13 through Belle Property – Byron Bay / Lennox Head.

Crystal Castle is one of Byron Shire’s best-known tourist attractions, famous for its extensive collection of natural crystals from around the world, gardens, rainforest walks and cafe.

“They’ve adjusted the boundary so that this property still shares a backyard and its own private entrance into Crystal Castle,” said Braden Walters, principal of Belle Property – Byron Bay and Lennox Head who is running the auction campaign with Brad Rogan.

“The new owner will have lifetime access to Crystal Castle.

“Whenever you need your crystal fix you can wander into the gardens or head to the cafe for coffee, breakfast or lunch.”

Crystal Castle is home to some of the world’s largest crystals.

The Shambhala Gardens at Crystal Castle. Picture: Mish Shakti

It’s the first time any part of the property has been put to market in 34 years by the Kings, who have moved nearby and continue to run Crystal Castle.

Perched on an elevated section of the 17.06ha parcel, the modern four-bedroom house boasts one of the best views in the hinterland as well as 630 metres of Wilson’s Creek frontage, including a natural waterfall and swimming hole.

“There is something very special about driving up the private driveway to the top of the hill which puts you in such an elevated position,” Mr Walters said.

“Normally when you’re in a house the birds are above you, but in this house they fly by at eye level. It’s really amazing to watch.”

Wilsons Creek runs through the acreage on Goonengerry Road, Montecollum.

The prime parcel at 461 Goonengerry Rd, Montecollum is 20 minutes from Byron Bay and seven minutes from the colourful village of Mullumbimby.

Mr Walters said the location and land size lends itself to a wide range of potential opportunities, including a farm stay, a retreat or additional dwellings by the creek.

“Because it’s in the tourist/accommodation zoning, you’re allowed up to 11 dwellings on the property, subject to council approval,” he said.

The house was designed by architect David Miskell.

Living an off grid, self-sustainable lifestyle also adds to the appeal, with the house completely powered by three 8.5kw solar systems with batteries.

“With the solar and the creek, you could completely isolate yourself and live off grid here,” he said.

The property is listed for auction on September 13 with a price guide of $3.5 million.

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Homes within 5km pof central Geelong are proving popular with buyers relocating to the regional city. 31 Catherine St, Geelong West, has just been listed with price hopes from $680,000 to $720,000.

More people will take working from home to the next level and move to regional cities like Geelong as coronavirus restrictions keep offices empty, a researcher says.

Plan1 co-founder Richard Jenkins said people had become accustomed to working from home as conditions for businesses were unlikely to return to pre-COVID normal for several years.

That would drive more to choose lifestyle ahead of proximity to work when deciding on the best place to live, he said.

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Demographic data shows Geelong is already a leading destination for homebuyers, with a 2.8 per cent population annual growth rate the fastest among Australia’s 25 biggest cities.

Plan1 co-founder Richard Jenkins.

Population growth was spread across all age groups, but in the past 10 years, more than 7700 Millennials had moved to Geelong for a more affordable lifestyle, he said.

“It’s all about thinking differently right now,” Mr Jenkins said.

More open space, affordable housing and strong commuter links make Geelong a popular choice for people looking to leave Melbourne.

“It’s been shown remote working can be done and people are saying if I can be in a regional area and be in the office only two days a week, I don’t have to fight that battle to get there.

“I don’t think employers will be able to have 100 per cent of their workplace that they did six months ago in the one office. Even if they want to, they can’t accommodate them.”

Last year, 56 per cent of new residents to Geelong came from greater Melbourne, he said.

First-home buyers Shaun Lenehan and Tia Smith bought in Belmont after the first COVID-19 lockdown after moving from Melbourne.

That’s fuelled Geelong’s urban growth and given confidence to developers for apartment projects like Mercer and Miramar completed in 2019 on the waterfront, and Geelong Quarter — which includes a 4.5-star Holiday Inn hotel and a separate 11-storey Ryrie Home tower that will hold 109 apartments.

Construction on that project, at 44 Ryrie St, Geelong, is expected to start in late 2020.

The Armstrong Creek Town Centre shopping centre located in the fastest growing area in Victoria, seven kilometres south-west of central Geelong.

Sweeteners including a $20,000 regional first-home buyers grant and $25,000 Home builder program have helped the market, while stamp duty is waived for first-time buyers in regional Victoria for homes valued under $600,000.

Geelong real estate agents have witnessed the upswing in Melbourne buyers.

An aerial photo of the 44 Ryrie St $150 million Holiday Inn and apartments site. The developer is Franze Developments hopes to start building later this year. Picture: Alan Barber

The Geelong Quarter project at 44 Ryrie St now includes a second apartment project, left, dubbed Ryrie Home.

“Since April it’s has been ever-increasing,” Hodges, Geelong West agent Marcus Falconer said.

“One of the positives to come out of the pandemic for the property market is that we are seeing a lot of people re-evaluate their lives and most are going to be able to work from home two to four days a week.

This three-bedroom californian bungalow at 76 Mt Pleasant Rd is close to popular shops and eateries in Belmont. It’s listed from $669,000 to $699,000.

“Not only are they getting more time with their families and a better quality of life under the new arrangements, there is going to be some significant financial savings in moving.”

Geelong’s median house price of $596,000, is 20 per cent lower than Melbourne’s $750,000, based on Hometrack data.

Suburbs within a 5km ring of central Geelong is the hot zone, Mr Falconer said.

“Now you’ve got such great facilities out the southern side, with the train line all out the way to Waurn Ponds.”

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120 McPhersons Road, Adventure Bay. Picture: SUPPLIED

THIS large, unique property, home to a historic cottage, includes an established olive grove with olive pressing machinery shed and equipment — it is unlike any other allotment available in Adventure Bay.

No.120 McPhersons Road is hidden away on more than 10ha of land, however, it is close to the hub of the suburb and steeped in local history.

The home was built by some of the first timber-felling settlers of Bruny Island.

Set at the end of a no-through road, access is via a scenic driveway passing through rainforest.

With no other dwellings in sight it’s easy to be immersed in the nature that abounds.

The four-bedroom farmhouse is warmed via a wood heater positioned to radiate through the home.

Tranquil privacy.

By the warmth of the fire.

Work from home.

Features of the home’s era include original hardwood floors and 10-foot ceilings, while modern additions include a newly installed 1kW system of solar panels and solar hot water.

A spacious farm-style kitchen is highlighted by a combustion stove.

The combined bathroom/laundry area has lots of light via a full-height glass brick panel and windows.

An enclosed 12m-long sunroom serves as an ideal sun-drenched entertaining area, opening to a paved courtyard with a pizza oven.

The large, covered L-shaped veranda at the front of the house will be the perfect place to enjoy the view and serenity.

Bordered by other large acreages, the property has a 12m-long carport accommodating two vehicles, a 6m garage/workshop and a second 6m olive oil press room.

There is a sauna room and pump house as well as an enclosed vegetable garden/chicken run and chicken coop.

More than your average property listing.

A bottle of the good stuff.

The olive grove of about 950 trees produces an annual crop of temperate climate extra virgin olive oil.

Pressing machinery is included and the grove is fully irrigated by a dam and drip line system with a good boundary fence.

There are two dams, the largest of which can be admired from the cottage windows.

Both are spring fed via a creek that runs through the property.

Sea views can be enjoyed from the most elevated corners of the property.

There are two rainwater tanks with a large catchment area — on average 800 to 1000mm of rainwater has been recorded annually — so this location offers an ideal climate in which to live and farm.

Adventure Bay’s No.120 McPhersons Road is priced at “Offers over $625,000”, it is listed with First National Real Estate Kingston.

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Fairfield Waters residents Paul and Karen Haughton have moved within their suburb despite going through 2019’s February floods. It’s part of a bounce back for the hard hit suburb, which Explore Property Townsville’s Annette Rowlings say is performing well. PICTURE: MATT TAYLOR.

EIGHTEEN months on from the floods that devastated large parts of Townsville, one of the hardest-hit suburbs is bouncing back with an influx of new residents – and they’re coming from within Townsville.

Fairfield Waters (Idalia) suffered the brunt of the February 2019 monsoonal event, with the prestigious suburb the scene of evacuations, displacements and gutted homes.

Just last year it was a hive of activity with tradies and builders during the day, but resembled an eerie ghost town filled with empty homes each night.

About 1092 homes in Idalia sustained some form of flood damage, according to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services data.

Fairfield Waters residents Paul and Karen Haughton have moved within their suburb despite going through 2019’s February floods. It’s part of a bounce back for the hard hit suburb, which Explore Property Townsville’s Annette Rowlings say is performing well. PICTURE: MATT TAYLOR.

Residents of seven years Paul and Karen Haughton recently moved within the suburb from their home, which didn’t flood, to their new home closer to the river, that did.

Mr Haughton said natural disasters were a part of life in North Queensland and they couldn’t find reason to leave the picturesque suburb.

“It was bad, but from our street where we used to live, we knew it was a strong community; there were friendly, good people and they all said ‘we’re coming back, we’re coming back’,” he said.

“I accept the rains and everything else, it’s a one-off event the same as a cyclone and even if it happens again in 10 years, everyone will have forgotten about it by then, a lot of people have forgotten now.

“The suburb has come back to exactly where it was before, and if not, better.”

The property market is also reflecting that confidence, with real estate agents saying the suburb’s popularity has this year returned to what it was before the monsoonal event.

Explore Property Townsville agent Annette Rowlings said the 2019 floods hadn’t put buyers off.

She has recently sold – to Townsville locals – four properties over $500,000 and one over $600,000 after attracting multiple offers.

“People understand it was a once-in-a-lifetime event,” she said of the floods.

“They forget, just like after any cyclone; there’s devastation but you clean it up and you move on with your life,” Ms Rowlings said.

“(The area has) always been popular due to its location being close to the city … The Strand is only seven or eight minutes away.”

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