Top 4 open homes to inspect in Canberra this weekend

There’s a buzz in the air in Canberra’s current property market and auction circuit.

Buyers are pouncing on new homes that are swinging their doors open for inspections while the number of scheduled auctions each week is on the rise. The crowds are swarming among the action – all socially distanced, of course – and competition is at an all-time high.

Despite the state of affairs in 2020, there’s an upbeat tune and the city has always felt somewhat immune to the effects of the pandemic, thanks to what locals have dubbed the “Canberra bubble”. And now, new data has been released that proves it.

Canberra house prices leapt to a record high at the end of 2020, coming out of a tumultuous year relatively unscathed with the strongest growth of all capital cities. In the rental market, it’s great news for investors with the highest asking rent prices for units and houses in the country.

For you keen buyers, let this week’s top pick of homes be a guiding light to your property journey.

Nicholls

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When people talk about a forever home, 114 Temperley Street is exactly what they’re picturing.

Positioned a block back from the leafy street for absolute privacy and with the expansive Nicholls reserve behind, serenity is secured for many years to come.

This two-storey home was crafted from the ground up by a builder for his own family, with special emphasis on form, functionality and little bit of fun for the kids and adults alike.

Of course, no true forever home would be complete without long-lasting, high-quality features but rest assured, this property boasts the lot. The windows and glass doors are double glazed throughout plus the property has been fitted with CCTV, alarm, and an intercom system.

Oh, and just in case you have a teenager in your midst, there’s not one but two main bedrooms, which means fewer arguments and more “ahh” moments.

Price guide: $1.8 million +

Auction: 10am, February 13

Agent: Harcourts Belconnen, Kostya Logvinov 0421 485 758

Deakin

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Green lawns, private hedging and a prime Deakin address are the hallmarks of this beautifully presented single-level home.

The original residence on this block was knocked down and rebuilt, therefore considerable thought and superb architectural design went into creating the home you see today.

A practical floor plan, generous space throughout and well-proportioned rooms mean that it’s suited to most families.

The home has a delightful northerly aspect with a welcoming atrium capturing light from all the main living areas; oriented perfectly towards the sun, adding warmth throughout the winter.

Entertaining is made easy off the kitchen and living areas through full-length glass doors which lead out to a large, paved area offering relaxed outdoor chill zones and an outlook to an easy-care garden of mature trees.

Price guide: $2 million +

Auction: 1pm, February 6

Agent: Blackshaw Manuka, Mario Sanfrancesco 0412 488 027

Garran

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This retro-feel family home with warm timber tones and feature brick walls is located in a cul-de-sac at the foot of Red Hill Nature Reserve.

It was architecturally designed and has views over the Woden and Molonglo valleys. Other highlights include 18 roof-mounted solar panels, a feature fireplace in the living room and established plantings.

The solid timber and stone kitchen is fitted with quality appliances and leads seamlessly to the separate living areas.

The spacious master suite has a walk-in wardrobe, en suite and a separate dressing room that could also be used as a nursery.

Should you need more room, this house has plenty of storage space and great under-house storage. No. 38 Couvreur Street is also conveniently located close to local schools and shops.

Price guide: Circa $1.4 million

Auction: 10am, February 13

Agent: Capital Residential, Cory McPherson 0418 266 698

MacGregor

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Set on an elevated position with expansive views of the Brindabellas, this four-bedroom home will be a sanctuary for its next owners.

The charming house features raked ceilings, a covered entertaining deck with built-in bar, vegetable garden and is split across two levels.

The renovated kitchen has plenty of storage and is as stylish as it is functional, boasting a glossy red backsplash and a built-in breakfast bar.

The covered entertaining deck will surely be the envy of family and friends if playing host is one of your many talents.

Other features of this home include double-glazed windows, several entertaining areas with covered and uncovered spaces and a double-brick garage with an automated door.

Price guide: Low to mid $800,000

Auction: 10am, February 6

Agent: Blackshaw Gungahlin, Thom Eriksson-Lake 0417 194 699