Top 4 open homes to inspect in Canberra and Queanbeyan this weekend

In the weeks that straddle the new year – that hazy period where nobody really knows what day it is – Canberra is a tale of two cities.

About half the population has long gone to the South Coast and beyond in a well-deserved bid to be healed by the ocean of 2020’s stresses, while the other half stays put, slows down and welcomes a new wave of residents who are our annual transient public service and university arrivals.

For the latter reason, our property market is rarely anything other than a revolving door of home inspections and a flurry of market activity to nab a rental or spot on the property ladder just in time for that fresh start.

This week, we highlight some of Canberra’s very first auctions for the year and a selection of homes new to the market with a focus on the features that have shot to the top of our buyer checklists – entertaining extras, space to stretch out, ultimate privacy and multi-purpose rooms for that all-important home office.

Narrabundah

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From the outside, it’s a typical mid-century suburban home in Canberra. Step inside and the home at 176 Goyder Street is a feel-good renovated retreat.

If you close off an internal hallway, there is an option to convert the house into two separate dwellings. One, a charming two-bedroom residence with neat kitchen, bathroom, its own laundry and even a separate electricity metre. The other, a three-bedroom home with a beautifully renovated kitchen, living areas and direct access to the outdoor entertaining areas.

Grab a hot cuppa and head out to the back deck to bask in the morning sun. It’s the perfect opportunity to pause and take a deep breath of the fresh dewy air emanating from the established gardens.

The covered firepit will draw in friends and family for nights of great stories over good food and wine from the nearby Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets in the cooler months.

Auction: noon, February 6

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Bree Currall 0410 633 247

Karabar

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This modern, two-storey home enjoys a family-friendly community feel in the Queanbeyan region. Striking timber finishes command kerbside appeal while inside the home delivers loads of natural light, spacious interiors and oversized rooms.

The open-plan living area takes full advantage of its orientation and has high ceilings and windows. The fireplace features as a centrepiece, adding warmth and ambience.

Double sliding door access leads out to the covered al fresco area from the living and dining room, making it a pleasure to entertain in the comfort of your own home.

Central to the home and connecting to the outdoors is the designer matt black and timber kitchen, complete with stone benchtops, a breakfast bar, matt black tapware and a walk-in pantry.

Additional features including a six-car garage, workshop, storeroom and mudroom.

Price guide: $1.45 million-$1.5 million

Private sale

Agent: White Rhino Property, Gavin Van Zyl 0429 269 260

City

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Luxury penthouse living doesn’t get any better than having a bird’s-eye view of the city from the 16th and 17th levels of the Metropolitan complex.

The home’s northerly aspect and abundance of natural light bring to life the open-plan design with separate living, lounge and dining zones. Two of the bedrooms have en suites and private balconies.

The designer kitchen boasts quality stainless steel appliances, stone benchtops and ample storage space. And, if playing host is one of your callings, your guests will love the seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

Should this homely apartment be yours, you’ll have access to a gym, a 25-metre lap pool and the central landscaped gardens.

Located in the heart of Canberra, you’re within walking distance to the Canberra Centre and some of the best restaurants this city has to offer.

Price guide: $1.775 million

Private sale

Agent: Luton Properties Manuka, Marc Donohue 0417 646 417

Fisher

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Come home to a brand new duplex that’s stylishly appointed throughout down to every small detail including timber panelling, custom cabinetry and wide feature windows.

There’s an entertainment balcony with natural gas port and ceiling fan, as well as a versatile fifth bedroom plus rumpus room, suitable for home office.

With a number of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, this home provides a space for all to relax, entertain or simply enjoy the vistas.

Other features of the home include a security system, ducted vacuum, double-glazed windows throughout and landscaped gardens with irrigation.

Only a few minutes drive to the local shopping centre, various playgrounds and some of Canberra’s best nature trails, this property is perfectly suited to the growing family.

Price guide: Mid-high $900,000s

Private sale

Agent: inStyle Estate Agents, Alexander Anlezark 0403 221 667