Buyer checklist: The top property priorities for downsizers in Canberra

Downsizers continue to move into smaller quality spaces with luxury trappings and an unlocked lifestyle.

Lisa Harper of The Property Collective says the right location is at the top of their list of priorities.

“Many are drawn to more central and established locations close to the city,” she says.

“They want to be part of a community and close to cafes, restaurants, shops and recreational options.”

Harper says apartment downsizers put a premium on lift access, a north-facing aspect, open-plan living, high-end fixtures, fittings and finishes – and plenty of storage.

“Braddon, Reid, O’Connor, Dickson and Campbell are popular locations [on the north] side of the lake,” Harper says.

Jeremy Francis of Francis Properties Canberra says many downsizers actively research the market before making any decisions.

“They really want to understand the value proposition – what can they afford, what they will get for their budget, what locations they can buy into and so on,” he says.

“Some might reflect on that for as long as 12 months; others may buy and put a tenant into a property years ahead of their eventual downsize.”

Francis says a driver for many buyers is to not only change the type of dwelling and location they have been living in but also to change the way they feel about them.

“The motivation may be to feel like they are on permanent holiday – that’s a really personal expression, he says.”

Barton, Forrest, Griffith and Kingston are downsizer drawcards on the south side.

• Location. Established, central locations are big downsizer drawcards. Campbell, Reid, Braddon, O’Connor and Dickson are popular on the east and north sides while leafy Barton, Forrest, Griffith and Kingston get the south-side tick.
• Lifestyle. Downsizers are drawn to what planners would call “walkable neighbourhoods”. These are locations that offer a variety of lifestyle options, including cafes, bars, restaurants, shops and a plethora of recreational options.
• Space. Downsizers are looking for dwellings with easy access, plenty of living space, single-level living, guest accommodation and outdoor living options. They also expect high-spec fixtures, fittings and finishes.

Our top pick of homes on the market for downsizers:

Braddon

63/28 Torrens Street

3 bedrooms, two bathrooms, 1 car space

A walkable neighbourhood gets the big tick from downsizers looking to reduce their footprint while boosting their quality of life.

You couldn’t get a much better locale than Braddon if proximity to cafes, bars, restaurants, gyms and yoga studios are on the list of must-haves.

This inner-city apartment, being sold fully furnished, ups the ante with an interior style influenced by the good holiday vibes of Noosa and Byron Bay. Neutral tones and natural materials enhance that feeling of being permanently on staycation.

And if you’re on holiday, you’ll want a bit of space, and this one offers two levels and three bedrooms – room enough to invite the family and friends.

There’s a modern kitchen complete with a granite benchtop and waterfall edge, a double Fisher & Paykel dishwasher, an induction cooktop, two ovens with separate warming drawer and a Zip tap.

Technology is on hand with app-controlled LED smart lighting. There’s also Luxaflex Veri Shades with block out and sheer blinds to the dining and main bedroom.

Downsizers will appreciate the main bedroom on this level with a luxe en suite that has a double rain shower and a beautiful view of Mount Ainslie.

Upstairs is a study or rumpus with storage and two further bedrooms with skylights.

There’s a secure underground car park with one bay and a separate storage unit.

Amenities include a floodlit tennis court, heated indoor pool and a gym.

Price guide: $888,000 +

Auction: 10am, May 29

Agent: The Property Collective, Lisa Harper 0467 977 708

Or try these:

Griffith

17/2 Cunningham Street

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

Price guide: $675,000 +

Private sale

Agent: Francis Properties Canberra, Jeremy Francis 0418 429 470

City

39 London Circuit

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

Price guide: $1.025 million +

Private sale

Agent: Whitcombe Property, Rita Feng 0432 109 538

Taylor

9 Ruzicka Street

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

Price guide: $650,000 +

Auction: Noon, June 5

Agent: Harcourts Brindabella, Jeremy Maher 0410 481 260