It’s leafy with great views of Mount Taylor and it’s a big hit with families because of its position near many desirable parts of Canberra.
Welcome to Torrens, which sits on the southern side of the Woden Valley with neighbours such as Pearce, Mawson and Farrer.
Brett Hayman of Hayman Partners, who lists this week’s Torrens feature property, says the suburb presses many hot buttons with buyers.
“It’s certainly a favourite with families because of its proximity to a range of quality schools,” he says. “And it’s also very well established and close to everything – particularly the Woden and Tuggeranong town centres.”
Hayman says buyers are recognising its strong value, as evidenced by the pace of renewal.
“Several years ago, you might see one knockdown-rebuild in a street – now you’re more likely to see four or five,” he says.
The entry-level price for a three-bedroom, “ex-govvie” style home in Torrens sits around the $900,000 to $1 million mark, Hayman adds.
Mario Sanfrancesco of Blackshaw Manuka has a sentimental attachment to Torrens.
“My wife, Fiona, was born and raised there and we lived in Torrens for 15 years,” he says. “I think, in many ways, it has been one of Canberra’s best-kept secrets as there are few through roads. That’s heightened its sense of welcome seclusion.”
Sanfranceso says he believes the secret is now out with the suburb attracting strong interest from families.
“It’s got it all – it’s nicely tucked away, very green and private,” he says. “[There are] spots with great views, but it has access to everywhere.”
Torrens is green, leafy and nuzzled into Woden Valley’s southern border zone as an equal partner to neighbouring Pearce, Mawson and Farrer. All have views toward magnificent Mount Taylor.
Torrens has a small shopping centre, a sports oval and a primary school. Beyond that, it’s close to the Southlands shops, the Woden Town Centre and Canberra Hospital.
Sir Robert Torrens developed the Torrens title system that confirms ownership of both house and land. Ironically, ACT land is only leased under crown title for 99 years.
“Location” remains cornerstone advice from just about any real estate agent, which tends to be supported by historic price data.
However, in terms of buyer appeal there’s another element to be considered, and that’s “lifestyle”.
The two often go hand-in-hand – and that’s certainly the case with this brand-new Torrens family home set on one of the suburb’s leafiest of streets.
From the kerbside, the contemporary two-storey home displays a modernist influence with sharp angles and an appealing palette of finishes including stone and timber cladding.
Detailed low-maintenance landscaping complements the architecture of the build, which sits confidently on an 825-square-metre block.
Inside, there’s plenty of living space – about 244 square metres. The lower level has the potential to be a self-contained space with a private entry, living area, bedroom and en suite. Pop in a kitchen and you’re good to go.
The upper level offers the main bedroom suite at one end and two further bedrooms at the other.
The balance is devoted to the open-plan kitchen-dining area and lounge room.
Highlights include full-height windows, high ceilings, double glazing throughout and engineered timber flooring.
The kitchen features stone benchtops, a generous island bench, name-brand appliances, and a big butler’s pantry with a sink and dishwasher.
Outside, there are two entertaining spaces, a fire pit and big views. The large double garage includes storage.
Price guide: $950,000+
Private sale
Agent: Solely Properties, Andrew Thorpe 0402 017 912
Price guide: $1.565 million
Private sale
Agent: VERV Property, Jason Roses 0431 419 847
Price guide: $2.09 million+
Private sale
Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Alexander Anlezark 0403 221 667