Andy Lee linked to $7.7m derelict Hawthorn mansion

A derelict Hawthorn mansion without a kitchen or bathroom that sold for an eye-watering $7m-plus sum has been linked to entertainer Andy Lee.

Andy Lee and Rebecca Harding are believed to be the proud new owners of the $7m-plus fixer-upper. Picture: Mark Stewart

When Andy Lee asked Page 13, “What’s goss?” we’re betting the comedian didn’t think he would be batting away questions about his purchase of a $7m-plus derelict Victorian mansion on Yarra Grove, Hawthorn.

While the TV presenter, musician and children’s book writer is more than adept at circling around such curly questions, his glamorous partner Bec Harding, er, not so.

Blushing while literally and figuratively turning her cheek, we knew we had asked the money shot.

The blokes later talking up a storm at Bar Bambi confirmed so.

All week, real estate circles have been whispering about just who bought the 2000sq m of riverfront home in Melbourne’s inner east that went on the market last month.

With no kitchen or bathroom, a price tag of $7m to $7.7m seemed a tad rich, until you appreciate the sheer size of the prime property.

Yarra Grove, Hawthorn, sold for more than $7m.

The Victorian mansion on the Yarra River has seen better days.

Built in the 1880s, making it one of the first in the area, the pile has sat empty (except for the nesting pigeons) and in a state of disrepair for three decades.

At the time it went to market, Jellis Craig agent Antony Woodley said the history and almost 2000 square metres of riverfront land commands the price tag and that anyone looking to buy should be aware – the house cannot be knocked down.

“It gives you that magnificent Victorian facade,” Woodley said at the time.

The house is listed with four bedrooms and carparking for four, but no plumbing, gas or electricity is connected.

“Currently presented in unrenovated condition throughout a superbly-proportioned interior,” stated the listing, noting any plans to extend or renovate are subject to council approval.

A renovator’s delight and then some. But Lee’s influencer model partner is no slouch when it comes to decorating or anything else for that matter.

The property is on a prime river front block.

Lee has quoted his mother as saying she is wife material. The legs-for-days bubbly personality has an eye for fashion and lifestyle and could no doubt recreate and renovate even the most rundown of mansions. It can’t hurt when you can also use your social media account, Bec Judd style, to plug your every move and builder with a hashtag. Ahem Grand Designs Australia anyone?

Page 13 contacted Jellis Craig’s Woodley on Friday, who suddenly lost his voice when we asked him to confirm the owner’s details. For a fast talking real estate agent this is no easy feat.

Woodley did find enough strength to say the buyers had met with the current owners this week, with the property “to be settled shortly”.

“The are rapt it is going to a young Melbourne family who will restore it back to its former glory,” Woodley said adding the clients had asked for confidentiality. Whoops.

Back to our questions and Lee produced a photo of the couple’s new terrier puppy Henri to shift the play.

No doubt Henri will need a bigger garden to run around in than at Andy and Bec’s Richmond townhouse. Watch this space.