It’s nearly that time of the year to head for the hills and the beginning of the ski season.
There’s nothing like being immersed in a winter wonderland to fuel a desire for a permanent ski change, but what should buyers be considering in making their decision?
Michael Henley of Henley Property Sales says understanding what specific locations offer should be top of the list.
“Buyers need to be clear about what they want in an alpine address,” he says.
“Jindabyne is a great choice as a year-round option. Crackenback has easy access to the ski tube while Thredbo offers an immersive winter environment.”
Jindabyne enjoys plenty of bar and dining options, a supermarket for self-catering, a cinema and more.
“Crackenback is more boutique as far as restaurants and services are concerned. Thredbo has that unique alpine village fee where you can walk to everything,” Henley says.
Michelle Stynes of Forbes Stynes agrees that location plays a big role in buyers’ decisions but highlights current market factors as a further consideration.
“Right now, supply is very tight, particularly through Crackenback and Thredbo and buyers are finding it can take 12 to 18 months to find the exact property they want,” she says.
“Zoning also plays a role in those locations with restrictions on how much of the year you can live in your own holiday home.”
Stynes says that has made financing more challenging and buyers need to present a strong case to lenders.
20 Macgregor Place (also pictured above)
Price guide: $1.95 million
4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 car spaces
There’s nothing liking taking in the crisp mountain air and superb alpine views and this stunning East Jindabyne residence caps all that with panoramic views of the iconic lake of this ski fields gateway.
This four-bedroom, four-bathroom, four living zone residence – over three levels – unashamedly sets the benchmark for luxury alpine accommodation.
The open-plan design incorporates high ceilings, large windows and expansive areas for outdoor entertaining and this seamless integration with the environment is also reflected in the use of natural materials. The property invites natural light through both the extensive use of glass and the inclusion of thoughtfully positioned skylights.
The lower level houses the double garage, gym, workshop (perfect for ski gear and mountain-bike storage), office and bathroom. The main level comprises three bedrooms, two of the living areas, the kitchen, eatery and dining room. A highlight is a spa bath with lake views.
There are expansive decks off the dining and lounge rooms and a verandah off the living room. There’s also a sunroom off the lounge room. The upper level contains a lounge and rumpus room, bathroom and the fourth bedroom.
There are multiple heating options including a combustion wood fire and ducted reverse-cycle airconditioning.
Price guide: $1.325 million
3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car spaces
This magnificent two-storey fully furnished chalet in beautiful Lake Crackenback was designed by architects Modo Design and built by renowned local builder, Simon Kuner.
The chalet sits on a 878-square-metre corner block and is surrounded by plenty of garden space to stretch out.
It features an open-plan living, dining, kitchen and TV room plus a weather protected barbecue area for outdoor entertainment.
Price guide: $1.7 million
5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 car spaces
With a floor area of approximately 250 square metres, this spacious chalet offers you the opportunity to always have accommodation at the snow because of its dual key plan.
On the ground floor is a one-bedroom apartment with entrance from the shared laundry/foyer. The first floor houses two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, opening to north-facing deck. While the second level features a large double loft with storage.
Price guide: $1.3 million
3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 car spaces
An outstanding architecturally-designed mountain home with a dual key attached studio, this property embraces the natural environment with large windows and natural materials.
Meeting the highest standards of Crackenback resort living, the residence, of generous proportions and natural beauty, provides superior privacy and a gorgeous outlook.
It also enjoyed well established native gardens adjoining Kosciuszko National Park.