Woodend’s Maloa House up for sale with Macedon Ranges Sotheby‘s International

Complete with period finishings, this historic property on Melbourne’s outskirts is primed to become a popular attraction for day trippers.

Maloa House in Woodend has hit the market and is up for grabs. Picture: Supplied

A landmark property that started out as the local doctor’s house on the outskirts of Melbourne has hit the market — and it could easily become a popular attraction for day trippers.

Historic Maloa House in the centre of Woodend once sold for $290,000 in 1993 but will now command $3.2m plus, with owners Michael and Denise Grantham havening poured in $2m on renovations.

Built in 1906 as a doctor’s house and practice, Maloa House became a boarding house in 1940.

At one point, the Grantham’s ran the house as a restaurant with a fully licensed bar and three separate dining areas before they reconfigured years later into a family home.

“It could easily be converted back into a business,” Mr Grantham said.

“We built the new structure around the commercial appliances that were already there rather than taking them out.

“We’ve changed so much since we’ve been there to make it as low maintenance (as possible) and also simplify and automate as much as we can.

“We’ve toyed with the idea of opening up a business but we’re at the point where we’re trying to make our lives a little simpler.”

The 2734sq m property includes the main six-bedroom house with a modern kitchen located inside and a commercial kitchen towards the back.

Maloa House in Woodend features a modern kitchen as well as a commercial one. Picture: Supplied

A double garage stands where the servant’s quarters once stood and while period finishings are noticeable throughout the house it also has modern features like ducted heating.

“I am hoping it goes to a young family that was sort of like us when we moved in there because it is a fantastic family home,” Mr Grantham said.

“Or I hope it goes to someone who is really keen on developing it as a business for the local community.”

Maloa House features an English Tudor and Federation style. Picture: Supplied

The ground floor features three bedrooms, a family and dining room alongside a conservatory and formal lounge for entertaining.

With three bedrooms upstairs, looking out to a classic garden which takes in views of Mt Macedon and the surrounds with 20 carparking spaces on-site.

Mr Grantham said he hoped the new owners would enjoy the house as much as his family has over the years, likening it to an “adventure playground” in terms of opportunity.

“It’s a beautiful place, the kids have all grown up here and they’re sad to see it go but at the same time, they’ve all got their own lives,” he said.

“It’s a big change for us to be moving from the house and simplifying our life but at some point, you’ve got to.”