Summer-style living in high demand as Canberra property market heats up

Summer sun brings out buyers armed with a new home checklist that’s looking for a winning combination of indoor comfort and al fresco living.

Jonny Warren of the Independent Property Group Inner North & City, says buyers want a home that offers a cool refuge from the heat along with plenty of outdoor options.

“They’re really looking for one that has it all, where all the work has been done,” he says.

“It’s about being able to relax in comfort – indoors or out.”

Warren says homes that rate highly in energy efficiency are sought-after and that uptick is boosted if the outdoor entertaining area is well-designed and equipped.

“Covered entertaining is a big plus, as are outdoor kitchens and enough space to dine or chill,” he says.

“Pools are very popular with about two-thirds of buyers, but it’s not a deal-breaker if you don’t have one.”

Mike Ryan of Value Properties says sellers should think about the time of day that their homes are open for inspection.

“You should show it at the time it is the most comfortable inside,” he says.

“And keep watering the garden as the summer sun can suck the life out of it.”

Ryan says window treatments can increase a home’s comfort while covered al fresco areas are a winner.

“People also like homes with carports or garages that help keep the heat out of parked vehicles,” he says.

“And shaded areas around the home and garden are a big hit with pet owners.”

Maximise appeal

• Stay cool. A home built to moderate summer heat will have its fundamentals in place including building orientation, insulation, double-glazing and airtightness. That level of comfort can be enhanced by air conditioning.
• Play time. Covered entertaining areas provide welcome shade and extend living areas. Outdoor kitchens including sinks and wine fridges complete the al fresco style when added to dining and chill out areas.
• Bonus points. Pools and spas are sought-after, but not essential. Covered car accommodation helps keep the heat out of vehicles while shaded areas around the home and garden benefit our furry families.

Allhomes’ top pick of summer-style homes on the market:

Casey

40 Hanley Street

5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. 3 car spaces 

 A modernist aesthetic shapes this Casey home that comes packed with features that deliver the ultimate in resort-style living.

This expansive two-storey residence sits comfortably on an elevated 663-square-metre block on a quiet corner street. It enjoys heightened privacy with a farm opposite and no neighbours either side. There are great views over Casey and toward Gungahlin.

Apart from streamlined contemporary style, this home delivers room and amenity for all with five bedrooms, a sixth which is currently used as an office, four bathrooms, a media room, basement/wine cellar and an over-sized double garage. Outside there is a covered al fresco area, kitchen, firepit and an eight-metre pool.

There is more than 350 square metres of internal space and some 68 square metres of covered outdoor area.

The open plan design delivers a light, spacious feel enhanced by a six-metre void above the entry and by the delightful illusion of a floating wine storage feature.

This floor plan leads effortlessly through living and dining areas to a high spec kitchen with a surprise.

The substantial two-metre, granite-topped island bench is on wheels – and can be moved aside to increase entertaining space.

Parents looking for a luxurious retreat will be drawn to the generous master with luxury en suite, walk-in wardrobe and further built-ins.

The home is close to the Casey shopping centre and local schools.

Auction: 4.30pm, March 2

Agent: Independent Property Group Inner North & City, Jonny Warren 0431 797 891