'Holy grail' of West End property sells for $2 million at auction

A character home in need of a renovation but with stunning city views sold for $2 million at auction on Saturday.

The “holy grail” of West End property has only sold once in the last 80 years, and the auction attracted a crowd of about 40 people both young and old, and nine registered bidders.

Bidding for the large three bedroom home quickly rose from the starting bid of $1.4 million, and despite a short break for negotiations, the auction was all over in 10 minutes with the hammer falling at $2 million.

Buyers Suzanne and Gaetano Turrisi said they’re thrilled with their purchase in the heart of West End.

“We’ve been looking in the area for a while,” said Ms Turrisi.

“It’s nice to think we’ll be able to walk to the cultural centre, the shops, and work; it makes life a bit more interactive.”

Selling agent Ben White of Place Estate Agents said the previous owner had the home for 30 years, and before that the same family had owned the property for 50.

“The underbidders are not going to find the same thing tomorrow,” he said.

White said the $2 million price was proof of the home’s rarity.

Truly in the heart of West End, the home sits on a 809 square metre block and boasts stunning city views.

Despite its age, the home is in good condition. Ms Turrisi said she was drawn to the home’s heritage nature, and plans to renovate accordingly.

“We’ll return it to it’s old glory,” she said.

The couple have lived in Annerley for the last 21 years, but with their three children grown they said it was time for something a bit smaller.

“It’s time for a different phase,” they said, but expect their grandchildren will stay occasionally too.