As the holidays approach, I find myself dreaming of relaxing getaways. It’s not just the Christmas shutdown that’s fuelling my daydreams, but the exciting prospect of a new year with greater freedom to travel.
Of course, there’s also something to be said for being a tourist in your own city, and exploring areas you might not have previously considered.
Our top pick of homes is filled with dreamy homes in idyllic locations – like a home in Surf Beach on the South Coast, but also homes within the Canberra borders in Braddon, Isaacs and Chifley filled with character and charm.
So, wherever you are in your property journey, we hope our top pick of properties will instil some inspiration in your hunt for your forever home.
Here’s a home that presents more as a light-filled house than an inner-city apartment. With 160 square metres of living space, it’s a rare find, particularly given its location.
The entire top floor is lit by six skylights, flooding the rooms with sunshine. The two bedrooms are large, with one containing a designated study area.
There’s also a living area, perfect for a kids’ rumpus room. Downstairs is the main bedroom with an en suite, a large living and dining area, and a beautifully designed kitchen with a breakfast bar.
A balcony overlooks the tree-lined street below.
Price guide: $1 million +
Auction: Noon, November 27
Agent: The Property Collective, Will Honey 0407 245 177
This four-bedroom home is on a large block just metres from Isaacs Ridge. From its elevated position, the home offers views across Woden Valley.
There are four separate living areas, including a family room with an exposed brick wall, fireplace and balcony. The kitchen was made for those with large families boasting plenty of storage space, a big bench and quality Miele appliances.
Downstairs is a two-car garage with a storage area.
Outside, the home is surrounded by established gardens and space to entertain. For those with more than one vehicle, an additional parking space allows a third vehicle or trailer to be parked there.
Price guide: $1.7 million +
Auction: 1pm, November 27
Agent: Independent Woden, Jonathan Charles 0413 909 158
This four-bedroom townhouse is part of a boutique development located minutes from Woden Westfield and Mount Taylor.
The home includes architectural features like soaring ceilings and a floating timber staircase, as well as a functional open floor plan and multiple outdoor entertaining spaces.
Downstairs is where the kitchen, living, dining and two bedrooms are located including the main bedroom. While the second floor houses another two bedrooms and a study nook – perfect for those working from home.
Other features of the home include reverse cycle air conditioning for year-round comfort, a double lock-up garage and natural light spilling into every room.
Price guide: $1.2 million +
Auction: 3:30pm, December 2
Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Bree Currall 0410 633 247
There’s nothing quite like a sea change. For Canberrans, the South Coast is akin to our very own “local”, and Surf Beach is one of the most sought-after items on the menu.
The home at 35 Wimbie Street isn’t just what coastal house dreams are made of, it’s what all home dreams are made of.
Superbly renovated, the rooms have been plucked straight from the design books – feature panelling, raked ceilings, timber flooring and decorative tiling, all in perfect, soft seaside tones.
With a gas fireplace, the main living area is equally cosy in winter. Imagine listening to the waves roll in while sipping tea next to its warm flames. Pure bliss.
Downstairs, the four-car garage will fit all the extended family’s vehicles. Additional garaging can be transformed into a games room. It also has its own bathroom with direct access from the backyard so sandy toes should never make their way upstairs.
Price guide: $2 million
Auction: Noon, November 25
Agent: Sophie Luton, Luton Properties Manuka 0410 750 413