When only new will do: The best new-builds on the market in Canberra

There’s nothing quite like being the very first owner of a bright, shiny, new home.

Matt Shipard of HIVE Property says the choice of location often comes down to a perception of value.

“The build cost can be similar wherever it is taking place, but land content value can make the difference,” he says.

“In established areas, for example, a budget will go much further in, say, Curtin than within the Inner South.”

Shipard says consumer confidence in newer suburbs like Coombs and Wright is growing.

“We’re certainly now seeing $2 million-plus owner-occupier homes in these areas,” he says.

“But they are still up to $400,000 better off than those building in central areas.”

Shipard says buyers are taking a longer-term view of the Molonglo Valley.

Theo Koutsikamanis of the Bastion Property Group says the increasing cost of renovations or extensions is tipping people into the new-build basket.

“Incentives like the HomeBuilder grant and low interest rates are encouraging people to consider a complete build rather than modifications to an older home,” he says.

“The equation works in the longer-established areas because of increasing land values.”

Koutsikamanis says there has been a dramatic pickup in demand for off-the-plan developments in places like Denman Prospect in the Molonglo Valley.

“Interest has definitely increased from where it was, say, 12 months ago,” he says.

“That’s evident in a segment like owner-occupier townhouses where it seems everybody wants to get into the market.”

• Appeal. What’s not to like about a new build? You can get exactly what you want – from original architecture to off-the-plan design with input all the way to fixtures, fittings and finishes.
• Established. There are plenty of opportunities for new builds within longer established areas. Knockdowns and remediated Mr Fluffy blocks offer a range of options. Land content cost is likely to be higher.
• New areas. Land releases offer opportunities to secure plots for new builds. Other options exist within off-the-plan designs for homes and townhouses. The Molonglo Valley is enjoying substantial buyer interest.

Check out our top pick of new homes for sale:

Coombs

View property

It’s been said before, but it’s worth repeating: there’s nothing quite like a new build, particularly when it’s been the builder’s own home.

Attention to detail, build quality, fixtures, fittings and finish are usually top drawer – and that’s certainly the case with this two-storey Coombs residence.

What’s more, it’s in an idyllic location within strolling distance of the Molonglo River, walking and riding trails and with easy access to the Arboretum.

Let’s take a look inside. Entry leads into a foyer, past a formal lounge and along a passage toward the core of the home. That’s where the north-facing kitchen, dining and family room open onto a covered outdoor entertaining space with a pool.

Interior highlights include polished concrete floors, recycled timber features, cedar-framed windows and LED strip lighting.

The kitchen is fitted with quality Asko appliances – including an induction cooktop, two ovens, an integrated fridge and freezer – and a butler’s pantry and porcelain benchtops.

This level also houses the main bedroom suite and utility space that could be used as a work-out room, a home office or other option.

This bedroom, with parents’ retreat, enjoys a generous walk-in wardrobe and en suite with bath.

Upstairs houses three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a rumpus room with views toward Black Mountain Tower.

The al fresco area has a built-in kitchen, while the in-ground heated saltwater pool is completed with a cabana.

The grounds are fully landscaped with irrigation.

Price guide: $1.45 million +

Auction: 10am, May 15

Agent: HIVE Property, Matt Shipard 0408 218 179

Or try these:

Campbell

View property

Price guide: $2 million

Auction: 10am, May 8

Agent: Blackshaw Manuka, Debbie Maddigan 0413 621 131

Farrer

View property

Private sale

Agent: InStyle Estate Agents, Emma Baker 0415 533 483

Mawson

View property

Price guide: $1.35 million

Private sale

Agent: Blackshaw Manuka, Luke Revet 0418 101 213