Top 4 homes to inspect in Canberra this weekend

When do you set up your Christmas tree? It’s a divisive issue.

Some are rigidly attached to 1 December, while others are dusting off their decorations in early November.

Personally, I think it’s a fine line between getting the maximum return on your efforts while retaining that sense of magic and excitement.

Frankly, I would have been happy to don my Christmas hat immediately after Halloween, but my husband set a firm boundary of mid-November.

That means that as you’re flipping the pages of this magazine, I’ll be belting out carols, baking cookies and perching our star atop the tree.

You might be enjoying a weekend that’s not quite as festive but no less spirited if you’re one of the many Canberrans searching for a home to settle into before Christmas day.

If that’s the case, I wish you all the best in your property scouting and hope you find that magic property that meets every item on your Christmas home wish list. I hope these next few properties will spark some inspiration in your property journey.

Ainslie

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This is a classic Canberra double-brick home with an architectural extension at the end of a leafy, quiet cul-de-sac.

The main living area makes the most of the landscaped gardens and the two-tiered covered deck, with stackable glass doors, raked ceilings and clerestory windows.

A mix of polished concrete and solid timber floors adds a touch of luxury, while the large kitchen is practical and perfect for family gatherings.

There’s a study and a large main bedroom complete with an oversize free-standing bathroom in the en suite, and three more well-sized bedrooms on the opposite side of the home.

Price guide: $1.9 million +

Auction: 12.30pm, November 17

Agent: Independent Our Team, Mark Larmer 0403 215 246

Forrest

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There’s only a handful of heritage homes in the city with a classic federal capital commission-style architecture, and even fewer with renovations executed with such elevation. Built in the late 1930s and receiving an extensive renovation in 2019, this home’s connection of old and new is faultless. 

Entertaining reaches new heights. From the gourmet kitchen with custom joinery and high-tech appliances through to the terrace with a built-in barbecue, in-slab heating, retractable roof and multifold glass doors.

But my favourite feature is the basement wine cellar, where I imagine private wine tastings would be held at the bar, over the most delectable of charcuterie boards. 

Between the living, dining, lounge and study, there’s more than enough living space. They’re especially cosy in winter with multiple fireplaces to curl up next to. A self-contained studio is a welcomed addition for older family members or young adult children.  

Price: $4.5 million +

Auction: Noon, November 27

Agent: HIVE Property, Josh Morrissey 0437 799 234

Chapman

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This tri-level, four-bedroom property has sweeping views to Black Mountain and the Brindabellas.

Sure to impress environmentally conscious buyers, the home is fitted with solar power, a Tesla wall charger, rainwater storage, as well as vegetable gardens and a greenhouse with a misting system.

The upper-level includes the kitchen, living and dining rooms, while the mid-level includes the main bedroom and family room. The lower level has the remaining three bedrooms and a laundry room that overlooks the garden and fishpond.

The double-garage also has enough room for a workshop space.  For those families with extra vehicles, there are many off-street parking options too.

Price guide: $1.35 million +

Auction: 1pm, November 20

Agent: Irwin Property, Jonathan Irwin 0421 040 082

Barton

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Perched above the picturesque Realm Precinct, this three-bedroom penthouse is split over two levels.

The double-story windows and large balcony offer spectacular views of Red Hill and Lake Burley Griffin. A mezzanine study also offers a bright, light space to work from home.

The kitchen boasts Miele appliances including a coffee machine and built-in microwave, while the bathroom is fitted with bespoke marble vanities.

Other features of the home include hardwood timber floors, it has three car spaces and a large storage shed and is also within close proximity to Canberra city and the capital’s most popular landmarks.

Price guide: $1.6 million

Auction: 4.30pm, November 18

Agent: Belle Property Canberra Louise Harget 0412 997 894