Top 4 homes to inspect in Canberra, Queanbeyan and Malua Bay this weekend

I love a home that has a history. A classic brick exterior, a charming rose garden, picture rails and fireplaces all hold a special place in my heart.

But you know what no one loves? Outdated interiors, ancient electrical and plumbing, peeling wallpaper and cracked, flaking paint.

Luckily, there are plenty of older houses across Canberra and the surrounding regions that have undergone seriously stellar renovations. It’s an ideal way to secure the best of both worlds: a sense of history along with all the bells and whistles of a modern home.

Take most of our picks for what to inspect this weekend – all from different eras, but all beautifully renovated to seamlessly accommodate modern living. Prefer a new build? Our Malua Bay pick serves cliffside luxury with breathtaking sea views.

Queanbeyan

With Rosalie Iannelli

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I’m a huge Queanbeyan fan. Even with my own home under my belt, I often jump on the Allhomes app to see what’s up for grabs in the region. 

But there’s an area, right near the centre of the city, that really tickles my fancy – a pocket of streets that are particularly adorable, reminiscent of the Inner South, within a much more reasonable price point.  

This is exactly where the home at 17 Hayes Street resides. Nestled on one of the most charming, tree-lined streets that’s wonderfully welcoming, incredibly tranquil and timeless in style. 

While the facade maintains the original character, the home itself has been vastly extended and fully renovated to exceptional standards, so absolutely nothing needs to be done when it comes time to move in. 

The bedrooms sit at the front of the home, including a beautifully finished main bedroom, where the walk-in wardrobe is so luxe, it’s adorned with a chandelier and the en suite features a luscious rainfall showerhead. 

The open living area is grand and expansive. Soaring four-metre-high cathedral ceilings leave no shortage of space, but if you wanted to open things up further, simply pull back the six-panel stacker door to the outdoors.

A concrete patio makes the perfect landing for backyard barbecues with the surrounding landscaped gardens offering a serene backdrop. The extended family can easily park on the additional concrete at the side of the house, just in front of the detached garage. 

Price guide: $1.2 million – $1.3 million

Auction: 5pm, July 6

Agent: Belle Property Queanbeyan, Aaron Papahatzis 0419 683 599

Watson

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This fully renovated home boasts serious street appeal thanks to its lush landscaped gardens. With a large elevated deck at the front and a terrace to the rear, there’s ample space for enjoying the scenery.

Inside, the kitchen anchors the open-plan living and dining space. It includes an integrated fridge, a walk-in pantry, and a large island benchtop. Glass stacked doors flood the area with sunshine and connect the outdoor entertaining areas.

The garage has been converted into a studio with its own bathroom and kitchenette, allowing for flexibility of use. 

Price guide: $1.599 million+

Private sale

Agent: HIVE Property, Bree Prince 0450 566 150

Ainslie

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This double-brick home was built circa 1935 and renovated in 2002, providing a distinctive blend of old meets new.

Heritage features include the original bevelled glass front door, high-panelled ceilings, picture rails, and stained glass windows.

A fireplace in the lounge room and a cottage-style garden add extra charm. 

Price guide: $1.699 million

Private sale

Agent: Independent Belconnen, Matt Peden 0419 000 079

Malua Bay

With Elly Johnston

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You’ll feel on top of the world at this cliffside home in sought-after Malua Bay.

The house is brand new and boasts luxury finishes including 2.7-metre ceilings, a mix of blackbutt timber and burnished concrete flooring, and expansive picture windows.

Enjoy it all while taking in the views of the Pacific from the comfort of the stunning interiors, or the large balcony outside.

Price guide: $1.9 million+

Auction: 3pm, July 8

Agent: Belle Property Batemans Bay, Sarah Ralston 0404 051 341