Top 4 open homes to inspect in Canberra this weekend

If you’ve been following my home-buying journey, you’d know that despite being the editor of a property magazine and thinking I’m somewhat an expert, I’ve chosen to embark on my search in the middle of a thriving seller’s market.

The ripple effect of the pandemic has sparked a wave of relentless buyer demand and limited stock to chose from.

Competition in the nation’s capital is at an all-time high – as are the city’s median house prices and auction clearance rates – and it’s resulting in many people, like me, asking ‘When will it end?’.

The number of new homes coming onto the market each week increased by 23 per cent in the first half of June, according to Allhomes internal data, and we’re feeling some respite with more homes to inspect this weekend.

So, where ever you are in your property search, we hope these homes will be an inspiration to your home hunting journey.

O’Connor

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The home at 14a Pedder Street doesn’t compromise. Modular in nature and architect-designed, it is a blend of style, sophistication and functionality. 

While technically a dual-occupancy home, its clever design makes it feel completely private. The northerly aspect and high ceilings ensure the home is filled with natural sunlight to enhance its sense of space. 

The open floor plan demands a daily dance through its walls as you move to complete your chores – which, in all honesty, are a breeze given the home’s minimalist feel and the abundant custom cabinetry that offers a place for all your belongings. 

A lift sits in the heart of the home to transport you upstairs to the bedrooms, should you need the extra help (I’m told it’s especially useful after a session at the gym). You will enjoy views across lush green playing fields towards the top of Mount Ainslie from up here. 

Outside, a sun-drenched courtyard is a mere al fresco extension of the internal living spaces, particularly when the weather is ripe for its enjoyment. 

Price guide: $1.5 million +

Auction: 11:30am, June 26

Agent: Home.byholly, Holly Komorowski 0434 973 987

Kingston

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Rare on the market is this outstanding luxury apartment, boasting unmatched water views, with everything you need and more.

As you enter, you are welcomed by a contemporary feel, exposed raw concrete ceilings and large glass windows with black framing, on all sides.

The full-height windows maximise the natural light that flows throughout the home creating a bright and inviting space. There’s timber flooring throughout, with plush carpet in the bedrooms. The kitchen is equipped with modern Smeg appliances.

Perch up on the island bench and enjoy a glass of red, while watching the excitement of the Kingston Foreshore below unfold.

Then in the morning, wouldn’t it be nice to wake up to the sunrise over the lake from one of the good-sized bedrooms. It is time to start living the dream.

Price guide: $1 million +

Auction: 5pm, June 24

Agent: Independent Inner North & City, Grahame O’Brien 0418 625 437

Taylor

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With immense street appeal and high-quality finishes throughout, this generous family home sports a designer feel and offers well-connected living spaces that flow from one room to the next across a 420-square-metre block.

High ceilings feature throughout the entire home, with three-metre ceilings in all living areas and 2.7-metre ceilings in the bedrooms.

The kitchen and dining areas spill onto the covered al fresco area that has a built-in chef’s barbecue and deck, and is a great place to host family and friends.

Other features of the home include 6.5-kilowatt solar panels and five security cameras around the house for extra peace of mind.

The residence is also conveniently located with the local school and oval only a short walk from the property.

Price guide: $1 million +

Auction: 11.30am, July 3

Agent: Harcourts Belconnen, Ajay Kumar 0401 536 362

Barton

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This superb “Old Canberra” residence with a studio is nestled in the tightly held enclave of Belmore Gardens in one of Canberra’s most sought-after suburbs in the Inner South.

Heritage meets modern living in a private setting thanks to a fireplace and extensive skylights. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, a built-in wine fridge for the wine aficionado and a spacious walk-in pantry.

The living area flows effortlessly out to the backyard that has a covered deck and lovely wisteria. One can imagine the cascades of blue to purple flowers that’ll bloom come spring.

A studio is located at the rear of the home with its own carport and kitchenette. It could work as an additional room or a home office.

The property is only a short walk to Manuka and Kingston shops and Lake Burley Griffin, and a short drive to the Canberra Centre.

Price guide: Circa $2.5 million

Auction: Noon, June 26

Agent: Berkely Residential, Bill Lyristakis 0418 626 593