Weston Creek is the latest star performer in Canberra’s ascending property market, with an eye-watering 42.2 per cent year-on-year growth.
Miriana Cavic of Luton Properties Manuka believes there are a number of contributing factors.
“It’s a kind of domino effect as buyers look for value beyond areas that have already seen massive price growth,” she says. “That’s pushed buyers out of, say, the Woden Valley and into Weston Creek and the Molonglo Valley.”
Cavic says part of Weston Creek’s appeal is the area’s wide range of property types, from ex-govvies in Rivett to big, contemporary homes on large, elevated blocks in Chapman.
“Properties that do come to market experience strong competition to acquire, and that has an upward pressure on prices,” she says.
“And low-interest finance is giving buyers the confidence to bid strongly – and that’s reflected in escalating prices.”
Weston resident and audiologist Bill Vass, of Dr Vass Hearing, says he bought into the area about five years ago.
“I was attracted by its convenient location – you can get to just anywhere in a reasonable amount of time,” he says.
“And the home I bought was in a quiet, cul-de-sac location. It was a three-bed, ex-govvie and perfect for a DIY renovation.”
Dr Vass says he has been overwhelmed by the massive increase in value the home has enjoyed in the past two years.
“It’s been crazy, but I’m continuing with the reno and very happy to live here,” he says.
Chapman has a reputation as the premier suburb in Weston Creek, and part of its appeal is the generous size of its blocks.
This four-bedroom home sits on a block which measures a smidge under 1000 square metres and could best be described as “leafy” due to its established and well-maintained grounds.
The mature foliage provides a heightened sense of privacy, something that will be well-regarded when lazing around the outdoor highlight – an inviting freshwater pool.
Inside, the home delivers 181 square metres of bright and airy living, thanks to a northerly-oriented rear. White window and door frames add to the lightness.
Essentially, the clever floor plan presents two zones: one for the bedrooms and the other the communal living spaces.
There is no shortage of living options with a family room and a living area sitting on either side of a sizable modern kitchen space and a separate dining room.
The gourmet kitchen comes complete with modern brand appliances including a gas cook-top, electric oven and dishwasher. There’s also plenty of storage.
The residence offers four large bedrooms, characterised by an abundance of light and those leafy garden aspects. The main bedroom is generously proportioned with a renovated en suite.
Outdoor options are a great part of the appeal of this home. Aside from the pool, there is a substantial front porch space along with a large rear deck and plenty of paved areas.
Price guide: $1.4 million +
Auction: 11am, February 26
Agent: Luton Properties Manuka, Miriana Cavic 0409 366 266
Price guide: $945,000 +
Private sale
Agent: Michael Potter Real Estate, Alisa Lawrence 0404 066 119
Price guide: $650,000 +
Auction: 11am, Feburary 26
Agent: Luton Properties Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley, Tim and Justine Burke 0411 878 587
Price guide: $1.1 million +
Auction: 1pm, February 19
Agent: Independent Woden, Jonathan Charles 0413 909 158