Canberra homes perfect for multi-generational living

By
Ray Sparvell
July 5, 2018

Homes that come with the space for extended family, guest, a teenage retreat, or an accommodation income stream are in high demand.

But the supply side of the equation is tight and buyers need to be patient, according to local and south coast agents.

Carrie Bond, of South Coast Prestige Properties in Kiama, says many buyers of these types of property are exiting the Sydney market for a more relaxed oceanside lifestyle.

“They’re usually cashed up and willing to spend on the right property with extra self-contained accommodation,” she says.

“Some want a property with additional room for the extended family to come and stay; others might like to live in one part and rent the other out for extra income.”

Bond says buyers are chasing self-contained apartments, granny flats, or detached studios with accommodation.

“There’s not a lot around and when it does come onto the market there’s a lot of competition,” she says.

Rick Dickson, of Peter Blackshaw Tuggeranong, says he has been experiencing interest from blended families and extended families.

“Grandparents are looking to live in the same house to help with the children and to save on the costs attached with childcare or after-school care,” he says.

“I also have increased interest from people with homes that have a self-contained living option. It tends to get great use from their adult children rather than as a commercial let.”

Dickson says the option of renting part of a home, short or long-term, has less appeal as the distance from the city increases.

Living large

  • Family. As the eldest child enters his or her teens, the ability to provide them with a private retreat offers an experience of independent living within the security of the family home.
  • Friends. Self-contained living options give guests their own privacy to come and go as they please – and that separation can help extend the length of the welcome – from days to a week or two!
  • Guests. Subject to any relevant local bylaws, self-contained living with a private entrance can provide an income stream through either short or long-term rentals – from air bnb to a traditional residential lease.

Properties on the market with a self-contained flat or separate dwelling:

Top pick: MEROO MEADOW

209 DEVITTS LANE

$2.6 million-$2.7 million

5 bed 4 bath 3 parking

MEROO MEADOW 209 DEVITTS LANE

An American influence infuses the architecture of a main residence and a two-storey guest barn on rolling landscaped grounds at Meroo Meadow outside Nowra.

The substantial home features custom-made barn doors that lead into a spacious open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. Highlights include floor-to-ceiling windows, cathedral ceilings, a Jetmaster open fire place and spotted gum flooring.

MEROO MEADOW 209 DEVITTS LANE

The DeGabrielle kitchen is complete with Mother of Pearl Brionne hardware, a Corian kitchen bench with breakfast bar, butler’s pantry, and Smeg appliances.There is an alfresco entertainment space featuring a Jetmaster open fire/spit in an area beautifully lit by hand-made Moroccan lighting fixtures.

The weatherboard-clad barn incorporates exposed wooden beams that complement its rustic feel, while the living area is warmed by an antique wood fire stove. There’s a fully-equipped kitchen and bathroom on this level. A flight of stairs leads to two bedrooms.

MEROO MEADOW 209 DEVITTS LANE

The combination of the main buildings offers a multitude of options, with the barn providing the perfect private space for extended family, guests, a home office or studio, or perhaps as an additional income stream from Airbnb or similar.

The grounds contain a “designer” chicken coop, while a further three sheds, highlighted by lead lighting and rustic timbers, provide ample storage.

There is garaging and carport cover for three vehicles and almost limitless space on the grounds for many more.

MEROO MEADOW 209 DEVITTS LANE

Private sale

Agent: South Coast Prestige Properties, Carrie Bond 0421 449 846

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Or try these:

HIGGINS

4 EWING STREET

Allhomes or try these July 7

$500,000-$550,000

2 bed 2 bath 2 parking

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CONDER

1 HAXTON PLACE

Allhomes or try these July 7

$990,000 +

6 bed 3 bath 2 parking

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TARRAGANDA

12 CORRIDGEREE ROAD

Allhomes or try these July 7

$699,950

3 bed 2 bath 2 parking

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