Auction watch: Character homes delight at Canberra auctions

Character homes were the order of the day at this weekend’s Canberra auctions, with two unique properties bringing great success under the hammer. 

Modelled on a Californian bungalow, 7 Aston Crescent, Cook, beat the 2017 suburb record, selling at $985,000.

Elegant and comfortable, this gracious home echoes the past with graceful lines, large rooms, ornate cornices and custom-made ceiling roses.

The five-bedroom home has been completely renovated in recent years.

Ray White Canberra selling agent, Mark Johnstone said the home was a rare gem.

“The property itself was very unique, you wouldn’t find another property like it in Cook,” he said.

“It really had a lot of character behind it and the attention to detail was outstanding.”

Over 80 groups inspected the home and there were six registered bidders at Saturday’s auction. Bidding began at $800,000 and although it slowed in the middle, the desired result for the vendors was achieved.

Cook’s median house price currently sits at $733,750.

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Prior to its sale, the highest recorded sale in Cook for 2017 was $911,000 at 34 Templeton Street. The sale of 7 Aston Crescent is the second highest ever recorded sale for the north-side suburb.

“A lot of neighbours were there and they were very positive about the outcome as well,” said Mr Johnstone.

Elsewhere, a dual-dwelling property in Reid at 3 and 3a Doonkuna Street sold for $1.555 million.

The original three-bedroom cottage has been improved and extended, while still retaining its period character. A second dwelling was also added to the home, offering the buyer the opportunity for dual occupancy.

There were two registered bidders at the auctions, after the initial bid of $1.47 million bidding moved quickly

Peter Blackshaw Real Estate Manuka selling agent, Andrew Chamberlain said it was a unique offering for Reid due to the prospect of a dual occupancy.

“It was a slightly curious offering and it attracted a bit of interest but obviously it only targeted a particular type of buyer,” he said.

The median house price in Reid is $1.405 million, however, this is the second highest recorded sale for Doonkuna Street. 28 Doonkuna Street sold back in March for $1.57 million.

Check out the weekend’s auction results here.