Every real estate agent will tell buyers the golden rule is “location, location, location”. But what makes one location more desirable than another?
Wayne Harriden of Independent Project Marketing says the exclusive terrace home development is a perfect example of the power of a dress circle address.
“You couldn’t get much closer to Parliament House than State Circle where this development is located,” he says.
“And beyond that, it’s close to a fantastic selection of quality schools, shops, public transport, cafes – everything.”
Harriden says a location can be aspirational, but it can also be driven by a sense of community, a spirit unique to a place.
“Some buyers might also be motivated by the future price-proofing offered by, say, the Inner South,” he says.
“Others – whether in Tuggeranong, Gungahlin or elsewhere – may be drawn to a sense of community, a place they can become a part of.”
Stephen Thompson of LJ Hooker Manuka says, in many ways, “location” is greater than the sum of its parts.
“Many elements can combine into the concept of a location,” he says.
“It can be history, the natural landscape, architecture, roads, schools, shops, proximity to workplaces – and more.”
Thompson says there can also be locations within locations.
“It can come down to specific streets that are perceived as having greater appeal than others,” he says.
“For example, historic Torres and Vancouver Streets in Red Hill and, say, Parkhill Street in Pearce backing onto Mount Taylor Nature Reserve.”
When it comes to exclusive locations, it’s hard to go beyond Forrest, something not lost on the developers of this boutique terrace home enclave on State Circle.
The gated development offers nine luxury homes, designed over three levels and each with a private lift to move between the floors.
Inside, the decor presents in subdued neutral hues with natural stone features, hardwood timber flooring, plush loop-pile carpet and bronze fixtures.
The lower level offers a generous living room with access to a landscaped courtyard fitted with an outdoor kitchen and built-in barbecue. There’s also a cloak room, powder room and a three-car garage with storage.
The next level is a showstopper with a spectacular kitchen and butler’s pantry. Spaces are highlighted by stone splashbacks and benchtops, 2pac finishes and Miele appliances. These include “speed” and “moisture” ovens and a warming drawer. The fridge and dishwasher are integrated.
There’s an adjoining living and dining zone, an informal sitting area and two bedrooms, each with an en suite.
Comfort is delivered through four-zone reverse-cycle air-conditioning and underfloor heating to the main bathroom and en suites.
The top level offers the main bedroom retreat with a generous walk-in robe that has an accessories cabinet and a cosmetics bar. Of course, there is a luxe en suite, highlighted by a free-standing bath with bronze tapware. There’s also a study and a private terrace.
. . . And that Forrest location.
Price guide: $3.35 million+
Private sale
Agent: Independent Project Marketing, Wayne Harriden 0418 625 414
Price guide: $965,000+
Private sale
Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Louise Harget 0412 997 894
Price guide: $1.749 million+
Private sale
Agent: Distinct, Jamie McDonell 0408 413 405