Top 4 open homes to inspect in Canberra this weekend

Over the weekend, I officially began my property search and hit the open homes circuit with high hopes and the Allhomes app and magazine in hand.

I was astounded by the number of people who were inspecting the same properties – many of them recurring faces. There were times when the lines were going out the door and once inside you were met with a wait to simply pop your head around the corner of a room, then another traffic jam to ask the agent a question.

It’s amazing news for sellers, but for buyers we’re certainly feeling the heat and the race is on to find the newest listings first.

There are some hidden gems to be discovered on the Canberra property market and in this week’s top picks we share with you our favourites, including a renovation delight in Kambah and a Griffith home that oozes ultimate autumn vibes.

Happy reading and I’ll probably see you in the queue again this weekend!

Griffith

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A thoughtful renovation balances this home’s original features with a tasteful contemporary design.

External appeal is generated through a mix of red brick and render. Internally, a mix of European and Scandinavian design overtones offer a sought after look by the most astute of homeowners.

White walls, timber floors and neutral decor offer a crisp and bright look, only enhanced by the light that filters through from the many windows.

There are two living areas – the open-plan kitchen, meals and family room may be central to a family home’s unruliness. But nestling next to the fireplace at a day’s end is nothing short of blissful.

The formal lounge and dining is dappled with light, posing a peaceful escape. It opens directly out to the private terrace, which calls for family gatherings surrounded by tranquil leafy trees that put on the most spectacular display in autumn.

Price guide: Circa $1.9 million-$2 million

Auction: noon, Sat 22 May

Agent: Blackshaw Manuka, Robert Westropp-Evans 0418 198 891

Kambah

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Set within Kambah’s award-winning Urambi Village, which was designed by Michael Dysart in 1974, this quaint home enjoys a natural bush setting on the suburb’s western edge, overlooking the Murrumbidgee Country Club.

The development has extensive landscaped grounds and facilities, including a tennis/basketball court, barbecue area and swimming pool.

Walking through the home, you appreciate the natural light which radiates throughout the unique tri-level design.

Old meets the new in the renovated bathroom with gold fixtures, curved mirrors, underfloor heating, pink-toned terrazzo tiles, rattan floating vanity with double basin, and double shower head above the bath.

To the side of the living area is a loft space that provides versatility and flexibility. This funky space is currently used as a home library.

To tie it all together, the landscaped courtyard on the lower level is private and secure.

Price guide: $740,000 +

Auction: 6pm, May 19

Agent: The Property Collective, Lauren Laing 0423 349 566

Bruce

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With an oversized main bedroom providing views from a large, private balcony, this architect-designed, two-storey home will be a joy for its new owners.

A huge, open-plan living area on the ground floor connects to the dining and kitchen. The kitchen comes equipped with an island-style Bosch cook top and oven.

Flowing from one space to another, you’ll soon find yourself in the additional separate living room that’s perfect for relaxing. Nearby is an enormous office for those working from home days.

The backyard has a large covered entertainment area with easily maintainable gardens and great elevated privacy. The two-car garage has high ceilings and plenty of room for storage.

And, I’ve saved the best for last. There’s also a fully kitted-out home-theatre room with a projector and recliner seating. What a treat.

Price guide: $1.5 million-$1.6 million

Auction: 11.30am, May 22

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Josh Yewdall 0430 213 909

Nicholls

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Located in Nicholls’ most celebrated estate, Harcourt Hill, is a home wrapped by a magnificent outdoor setting.

It offers an array of indoor and outdoor entertaining options that connect seamlessly from one space to the next via sliding doors and the full-height windows that feature extensively throughout.

There are soaring 12-foot high ceilings over multiple private living areas.

A segregated parent’s wing with a large double en suite and opulent dressing room provides a touch of added luxury.

Constructed to the highest standard and bathed in natural light, this premium property is one you’ll be proud to call home.

Price guide: $1.35 million-$1.65 million

Auction: 12.45pm, May 22

Agent: McGrath North Canberra, Justin Taylor 0414 701 465