Walkability factor drives buyer demand in Canberra's inner suburbs

Canberra’s visionary design has ensured its suburbs enjoy a high degree of “walkability” – and allow us to enjoy their charms along with convenience to shops and schools.

Amy Wilson of Belle Property Kingston says that focus is being renewed in some of the older northern suburbs undergoing rejuvenation as more families move in.

“There’s definitely a new focus on the local community with much of that growing around the local shops,” she says.

“People really love strolling to the local cafe on a weekend for a coffee, or breakfast and just relaxing in their own neighbourhoods – they’re almost like an extension of their own homes.”

Wilson says there’s also a growing trend of more children walking to school in suburbs such as Cook, Aranda and O’Connor.

Boris Teodorowych of Boris Property says apartment dwellers also value walkability, but are drawn to the newer precincts that have incorporated a high degree of amenity.

“Areas like new Acton didn’t exist 10 years ago and look at how popular they are now,” he says.

“People love the fact they can walk to the cinema, grab a coffee or just stroll around and enjoy the ambience of the neighbourhood.”

Teodorowych says the appeal is not limited to a younger or older demographic.

“Aside from Braddon, whose appeal is stronger with the younger set, precincts like Acton and Kingston Foreshore have a broad appeal,” he says.

“There’s something in these types of locations for young professionals and downsizers who enjoy the aesthetic as well as the convenience and the hospitality options.”

Made for walking

• Hub. A thriving neighbourhood shopping centre that boasts a supermarket, cafes and bars along with a variety of other services is a lifestyle magnet for families happy to stroll to the attractions.
• Exercise. Walkable suburbs provide access to all and children, particularly, can benefit from the fresh air and an easy daily walk to school – a chance to disconnect screens and reconnect with the outdoors.
• Community. Getting out and about in the neighbourhood is a great opportunity to connect with people you have something in common with – you’ve all chosen the same place to live.

__________________________________________________________

What’s on the market in the Inner North?

TOP PICK: O’CONNOR

35 Brigalow Street

$1.1 million +

6 bed 2 bath 3 parking

O’Connor is one of those inner-city suburbs that is prized for its “walkability”. And this substantial family home on Brigalow Street lives up to that reputation located, as it is, within strolling distance of some of Canberra’s best schools, shops and the CBD.

That convenience reinforces O’Connor as a firm favourite with the family set and this spacious residence offers a variety of communal and private areas that will have strong appeal across the ages.

No. 35 sits on a generous 874-square-metre corner block with Clianthus Street and is set over two levels of generous living with the flexibility to offer up to six bedrooms.

The home boasts a number of welcome character features including timber floors and an open fireplace in the main living area – along with ducted heating.

There’s a further living area and a study or home office while the bedrooms are segregated to provide a separation between activity and relaxation. The bedrooms all enjoy generous proportions.

Of course, the hub of the home for family and guests is the kitchen that sparkles white against grey floor tiles and is highlighted by cedar window frames and a corner meals area.

The home enjoys extensive outdoor entertaining areas with a wrap-around garden and a huge garage with plenty of workshop space.

Lyneham primary school is just 300 metres away, and the high school a further 400 metres.

AUCTION: 9.30am, June 23

AGENT: Belle Property Kingston, Amy Wilson 0405 130 332

__________________________________________________________

Or try these:

REID

5 Dirrawan Gardens

$3.5 million

3 bed 3 bath 4 parking

__________________________________________________________

ACTON

1508/25 Edinburgh Avenue

$1.295 million

3 bed 3 bath 2 parking

__________________________________________________________

O’CONNOR

2 Hemmant Street

$1.825 million + 

8 bed 4 bath 2 parking