Abandoned Warburton Hospital could reopen
A deserted old hospital waiting to be used could be reopened after five buyers made offers for it. But the government wasn’t one of them, despite calls for it to make a bid amid COVID-19 fears.
Melbourne & VIC
More rental stock, fewer homes for sale
Rentals are flooding onto the market and Victoria’s healthy flow of sales listings is set to soon diminish as the coronavirus crisis moves into its third month of grappling the nation.
Hawthorn tower house the grandest of designs
An elaborate tower residence built in the late 1800s by a renowned architect dubbed “Hawthorn’s architect” is ready for its next chapter. It’s the most elaborate of the Glucksberg Trio.
Street record set as coast faces quiet Easter
A street record for rare coastal gem in old Point Lonsdale is a sign that serious buyers will still be active over the Easter holidays.
Townhouse plan after health site sells
A Torquay developer is planning to build several townhouses after Barwon Health sold a residential property behind its community health centre.
Landlords continue to boot out tenants amid crisis
Struggling tenants and advocates are crying out for concrete government support on halting evictions and rent rises, saying they can’t “depend on the kindness in their landlords’ hearts”.
Animal care pioneer’s old Toorak home sells
A grand Toorak home built for Louisa Lort Smith, the founder of Australia’s biggest non-profit animal hospital, has fetched millions.
Lachie Henderson lists luxury Jan Juc home
Cats defender Lachie Henderson’s ultimate luxe surf shack featuring reclaimed bricks, recycled timber and on-point design is on the market just a few strides back from the sand and swell.
How will housing market emerge from coronavirus?
The next month will be crucial in determining how hard the property market is hit. These are the “optimistic” and “bleak” scenarios, but every situation is “bad news” for one segment.
Luxe penthouse listings defy market fears
As some vendors retreat from the coronavirus-impacted market, spectacular sky mansions in two of Melbourne’s most prestigious suburbs have emerged seeking sales worth up to $10 million.
CEOs selling lush haven from ‘high-stress jobs’
The St Kilda home of a pair of high-powered CEOs is for sale, with gorgeous period detailing, a sub-floor cellar and a backyard spa perfect for “melting away the stresses of corporate life”.
Cool Collingwood confectionery conversion
A converted confectionery factory has hit the market after being transformed into one of the sweetest pads in Collingwood. Get a taste of the inside.
Big payday for Salvos after park centre sale
A resort-style conference centre developed by the Salvation Army in prime Geelong parkland has been sold.
Tent-like Hampton home has curves in all places
This unique suburban pad is wavier than the nearby bay. Parts of it form an “optical illusion”, with more unexpected turns than a Dan Brown book. But it might face one more twist: a bulldozer.
Post office plans delivered to council
Eight groups have lodged plans to buy or lease Geelong’s old post office from the council. So what they considering?
Paul Roos lists incredible Brighton home
Premiership coach Paul Roos is hanging up the boots on his contemporary Brighton pad, sure to make entertainers drool. It comes just days after Warnie pulled the pin on his auction nearby.
Cracking $6m Anglesea view up for grabs
A huge double block overlooking Point Roadknight is on track to become Anglesea’s most expensive piece of real estate.
Lauren Jackson selling city pad
All Star basketballer Lauren Jackson has called time out on her Melbourne apartment — and the NBA women’s MVP reckons the COVID-19 shutdown could actually be beneficial in scoring a sale.
Buyers end long-time search in Newtown
No auction, no worries. Two buyers motivated to end their property search compete for an updated Newtown beauty.
Five contest renovated home in Belmont
Strong interest from five buyers ensures that sellers of a renovated Belmont house will walk away with more than they asked for.
Million-dollar dumps flood the market
A house on a tiny 107sq m block that’s sat idle for five decades is among a handful of fixer-uppers that have hit the market in a blue-chip suburb, all with eye-watering price tags.
Big crowds tuning in for online auctions
The “atmosphere, emotion and competition” of on-site auctions is shifting online, agents say, with two Melbourne homes attracting 100-plus virtual crowds. But clearance rates are taking a hit.
‘Self-isolation specials’ spruiked amid outrage
Holiday rental operators are advertising discount deals for people looking to self-isolate somewhere idyllic. It could help businesses stay afloat, but locals are urging city-dwellers to stay away.
‘Mandatory code’ flagged for commercial tenancies
Commercial agents say more needs to be done as they welcome word of a “mandatory code” for dealing with rentals amid disputes between landlords and struggling business tenants.
Plenty of gains ahead of property market pain
The COVID-19 crisis is expected to cause some pain for the Melbourne market. But before it set in, the vast majority of vendors were toasting profitmaking sales, especially on the fringe.
Can I still inspect properties during coronavirus?
Househunters are embracing technology to inspect properties from the comfort of home, with online platforms also giving vendors peace of mind and maximising social distancing precautions.
Winery meets warehouse for ‘cool’ blend
Equal parts industrial flair and vineyard vibes, there’s more than meets the eye at this Mt Dandenong home with floors reclaimed from Her Majesty’s Theatre inside and deer that visit the gardens.
Victorian Equestrian Centre for sale
World-famous riders and Olympians use the state-of-the-art facilities and “monster arena” for sale in Beaconsfield Upper, which is on the market after more than $2 million of upgrades.
Former top Dog lists Barwon Heads beauty
Brendan McCartney, who coached the Western Bulldogs for three seasons after helping the Cats make history, is aiming to collar a buyer for his modern house just blocks from the Barwon River.
‘Free’ house — but it’ll ‘scare off most people’
Looking for a project to pass the time while in iso? The “best block in Mt Dandenong” is for sale with a “free” house — but the scary project, home only to possums, will frighten most away.
Sorrento house has garage in living room
There’s extra, and then there’s a pristine carpeted garage with turntable flowing seamlessly into your luxury living room. This lavish new Sorrento pad will be sure to rev a few engines.
Essential guide to buying and selling in lockdown
Public auctions and open for inspections are out, but there are still opportunities for savvy buyers and sellers. Here’s how to negotiate this strange new world from the comfort of your couch.
Ristevski and Warnie out, online auctions in
Shane Warne’s mansion and the Ristevski murder house were scheduled for auction tomorrow but have been pulled. Plenty will move online though, as the method shakes off “teething issues”.
Geelong homes primed for self-isolation
Check out these super properties packed with features to help beat the boredom of staying in.
Buyers’ cheeky tactics amid COVID-19
Those still in the market to buy are doing their best to secure “absolute bargains”, which industry figures have slammed as taking advantage of distressed vendors and adding to hysteria.
Roos champion hop to Geelong property
A former North Melbourne footballer’s farming pedigree puts him in a great position to step into the boots of a champion of Geelong real estate.
‘Harry Potter manor’ leaves buyers spellbound
Visitors to this Dandenong Ranges mansion regularly comment it looks like it’s “out of a Harry Potter movie”. Now, the striking manor with hidden rooms and gothic flourishes could be yours.
Highton aged care development set to proceed
The $3.6 million sale of a high-profile Roslyn Rd site paves the way for new owners to push on with an approved 122-bed facility.
Tenants’ coronavirus FAQs answered
Many renters are facing hardship during the coronavirus crisis, despite government moves to support them. We’ve answered FAQs including, what if I can’t pay my rent or am being evicted?
Chin Chin owner sells luxury Lorne hideaway
He’s the owner of some of Melbourne’s favourite restaurants, but Chris Lucas’ incredible Lorne beach pad is fondly known as the ‘Kentucky Fried Chicken house’. It’s no fast-food design though.
Home values improve, but falls expected
The COVID-19 shutdown has already had an impact on Melbourne property prices and the worst is yet to come, experts say, despite house and unit values rising slightly in March.
Former Highton basin to become green housing estate
Barwon Water has launched so-called ‘superlots’ in a new eco-friendly estate offering a mix of medium-density units and traditional blocks.
Buyers splash cash in premium hillside street
Ultimate family playground one of two luxury properties traded in the same Lovely Banks street in space of a week.
Industry demands details on eviction ban
Victoria’s real estate industry has welcomed the moratorium on evictions to help tenants struggling through the crisis, but says further details and support for landlords are urgently needed.
Compact East Geelong house street’s bestseller
A clever character rebuild in East Geelong attracted multiple buyers despite the last-minute auction shake-up.
Market adapts as auctions ‘drop dramatically’
Melbourne was due to host one of its busiest auction weeks of 2020 before the shutdown ban on public sales. Digital auctions proved to be a winner for some, but others are opting out.
Record price for blue chip lifestyle property
Horse enthusiasts have saddled up for a luxury rural hideaway that’s become Gherang’s most expensive real estate sale.
Gerard Healy lists ‘one of the best’ in Jan Juc
Footy great and On the Couch host Gerard Healy has listed his holiday home, described as “one of the best properties in Jan Juc”. Take a peek at the interior and dreamy views.
Agent gets ‘creative’ with email auction
Selling homes in the COVID-19 period calls for creativity. And with on-site auctions temporarily banned, an agent in Melbourne’s southwest opted for an unusual method to ink a deal.
How to buy at auction in COVID-19 climate
Melbourne real estate agents have had to turn to solely digital auctions in the age of coronavirus. Find out how to sign up and bid on the various platforms they’re now using.
First-home buyers dominate digital auctions
Online-only auctions have quickly become the “new normal” in Melbourne, since the coronavirus pandemic sparked a ban on on-site bidding. And first-home buyers are stepping up to win them.
How COVID-19 impacts Geelong buyers and sellers
What buyers and sellers can expect from Geelong’s property market amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Newtown sellers take pre-auction offer
Sellers of a house in a blue chip Newtown neighbourhood have snapped up an early offer that was $40,000 above their price hopes.
How to win the private sale game
Cloudy private sale practices have been thrust into the spotlight after the auction market was axed amid the shutdown. Experts offer their advice on negotiating the less transparent method.
Self-isolation haven awaiting a buyer
Featuring a dam for kayaking, a mini footy field, a school hall, an edible garden and a spacious eight-bedroom house, this property for sale west of Ballarat is primed for the coronavirus lockdown.
Auctions in the time of COVID-19
Melbourne’s auction market has gone digital. Online platforms and in-vogue conferencing app Zoom are facilitating sales, after on-site auctions were outlawed in a bid to curb the pandemic.
‘Urban barn’ a luxe rarity in Camberwell
With a black timber facade and pristine Scandinavian style inside, this self-described “urban barn” boasts plenty of luxury edge — different to what you’d usually find in the affluent leafy ‘burb.
Former JB Hi-Fi owner sells three peninsula pads
Richard Bouris, who expanded JB Hi-Fi into a booming electronics and entertainment chain, has sold three Mornington Peninsula properties to enjoy an eye-watering payday.
Cloke family’s latest property play
Former Australian and Victorian sportswoman Teigan Cloke recruited her famous footy family to help renovate her mammoth North Warrandyte pad, now for sale after the team effort.
The Block contestants sent home
Contestants on The Block’s upcoming season have been sent home from the Melbourne construction site as the coronavirus crisis ramps up. But it’s not all bad news for fans of the reno show.
How to tackle your home maintenance list
Social distancing could be a blessing for your home: Victorians are the worst for putting jobs on hold for more than a year. This is what you can’t avoid to put off, and when you need a tradie.
Last-minute auction scramble before deadline
Buyers and sellers raced against the clock last night, moving auctions forward to beat the COVID-19 ban, with relieved groups securing crucial big deals as others totally abandoned plans.
Newtown mansion breaks record price
A stunning Costa family mansion has set a new Geelong record house price after a $5m-plus sale.
Arts and Crafts charmer has never looked better
This enchanting residence began its life 86 years ago as the “small thatched-roof house” of a World War I officer. It’s now seeking a multimillion-dollar sale after being totally transformed.
Where to for Geelong market as bans enforced
Agents are turning to tech-savvy and traditional solutions to keep getting deals done amid the cancellation of auctions and open homes.
Thousands of Victorian auctions axed
Victoria’s auction market has been flipped on its head with auctions and open for inspections outlawed. The industry will now turn to different methods in a bid to continue to get deals done.
What to do if your home is on the market
Vendors have been advised not to pull properties off the market after being forced to cancel auctions, as the industry moves to other traditional and tech-savvy methods to get deals done.
Warne pulls auction hours before ban
A ban on public auctions was pre-empted by one of Melbourne’s most experienced property players: Shane Warne. It comes as others rush to beat the midnight ban by auctioning later today.
James Bond video catches eyes in strange times
The world might have to wait a few extra months for the latest James Bond blockbuster, but a Melbourne real estate agent’s own take on MI6’s finest is streaming now. WATCH THE VIDEO.
Bold design stands out from Drysdale crowd
A premium Bellarine Peninsula sale has rewarded the vendors’ faith that a buyer would embrace their high-end modern build.
Landlords come to table as rental stress bites
Some Melbourne landlords are freezing rent to ensure tenants hit by the coronavirus crisis don’t lose their homes, while a real estate agency has stepped up to reduce financial pain for clients.
Vendors urged to cancel auctions amid COVID-19
Victorians sending properties under the hammer have been urged by the state government to “seriously reconsider” and move to safer methods, with huge crowds still gathering to watch.
Late offers fall short in blue chip streets
A Newtown house that’s sat vacant and unrenovated since it last sold for a mammoth price in 2017 will provide a test for the market after passing it at auction.
Buyers take their time to secure Newtown home
Slow bidding catches on as buyers take their time at auction of renovated riverside precinct home in Newtown.
Work set for Herne Hill house after 60 years
They’ll definitely be renovating: young family snaps up Herne Hill house selling for first time in 60 years.
Artistic toilet paper display stacks up
Designer loo roll arrangement at Barwon Heads house creates new kind of buyer envy.
Buy Brunswick house Beyonce blessed
Queen Bey fans take note: the ultimate piece of Aussie Beyonce memorabilia is up for grabs. The Brunswick house the superstar filmed in front of in 2013 is for sale after a total transformation.
Upsizers cement Highton home’s big gains
A family looking to upsize seized their chance to buy a renovated Highton home after auction, cementing a $300K rise in value over five years.
Auctions, inspections get green light amid shutdown
Auctions and open for inspections have been given the okay to continue by the state government, as the real estate industry tries to find new ways to manage crowds amid the pandemic.
What pandemic means for Geelong property?
Fears about the coronavirus have implications playing out for Geelong’s property market.
Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/finance/real-estate/melbourne-vic/page/199