The towns offering country living within reach of the city

Who among us hasn’t dreamed of an escape to the country? Or, at least somewhere within cooee of a city and all the amenities and services you need?

That could certainly apply to Wamboin, just 30 minutes from the Canberra CBD and something of a Southern Tablelands lifestyle-property hot spot.

Ryan Broadhurst of Belle Property Queanbeyan, who lists this week’s feature property, says its appeal is small-acreage properties that offer plenty of space.

“People can have the best of both worlds,” he says. “These properties offer options – perhaps to put on a really big shed for the big toys or work equipment, or plenty of space for the kids to ride ponies or trail bikes.

“But the proximity to Canberra makes Wamboin a really practical option, especially for those with school-age children and others who may enjoy a work-from-home option.”

Doug Merriman of Ray White Bungendore, who lists a Wamboin property in this week’s Or Try These column, says buyers should really consider how they intend to use an acreage.

“For example, there are land profiles that better suit livestock or crop growing,” he says. “And different again, if it’s just extra space for the kids to enjoy.”

Merriman says moving to a lifestyle property, like those in Wamboin, can require a level of adjustment.

“But there’s nothing that most people can’t handle – and there’s always a local who’s willing to lend a helping hand,” he says.

Lifestyle checklist

Eyes wide open

A move to a lifestyle property will deliver more space, but you’ll need to factor in day-to-day needs, such as how the kids get to school and where to buy groceries or fuel.

Practical needs

Is the property connected to water, sewerage and electricity? If not, how are these services supplied and serviced? Are there any dams, bores or water storage tanks?

Local knowledge

Find out what the community offers. Chat to locals about their experiences. Get in touch with the Rural Fire Service about how to best defend your property.

Feature property

There’s nothing like a deep breath of fresh country air, and it’s probably even sweeter on your own Wamboin property of eight hectares with Yass River frontage and views forever.

If that doesn’t sound like the dream, then add a truly sumptuous homestead, packed full of character, with all the creature comforts and tons of room.

$3,300,000

15 Amungula Place, Wamboin NSW 2620

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The magic begins at the secure electric gates, followed by a drive through a forest of white scribbly gums, a series of paddocks, a dam and an elm-lined driveway. Note the huge American-style barn on the final sweep up to the homestead.

This residence would be completely at home in the Southern Highlands, but the price tag would likely be heading higher.

The splendidly sprawling single-storey home has been styled to be completely in tune with a country vibe and is characterised by stone chimneys, wide verandahs, timber cladding and plenty of glazing that draws in the natural light.

Inside, the floor plan is essentially divided between a north wing housing the formal living and dining rooms and the kitchen-casual meals area, and the south side, where the bedrooms and study are wrapped around a big family room.

The main bedroom suite is a welcome retreat that has heated floors, an open fireplace, a walk-through dressing room and an en suite with a statement free-standing nickel bath.

There’s also a self-contained guest studio and much, much more. Time to see it for yourself.

Or try these

View property

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$2,200,000

33 Lumley Road, Wamboin NSW 2620

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