David Zaharakis: Former Essendon star scores $3.5m+ payday for Lower Plenty home

Former AFL player and reality TV show star David Zaharakis has finally found a buyer for his northeast Melbourne party pad, but it took more than 18 months to seal the deal.

David Zaharakis has sold his Lower Plenty home after nearly two years looking for a buyer.

Former AFL player and reality TV show star David Zaharakis has finally found a buyer for his northeast Melbourne party pad.

The Bombers livewire, who played 13 seasons in the red and black, recently sold a Lower Plenty property for $3.565m, according to property records.

However it took more than 630 days for the footy star-turned triathlete to secure a deal, after he initially put the home on the market in February 2023.

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He originally had price hopes of $3.8m-$4.1m when the home was first listed last year.

“End of an era. Very excited for what’s next” the 34-year old wrote on Instagram.

The swish house has a range of cool features, including an indoor basketball and squash court, theatre room, a bar in the billiards room and a luxurious pool.

Zaharkis has owned the home since 2018.

The luxe kitchen and dining area.

A gym, sauna and bathroom are just outside the sports court, leading to the private pool, spa and granite-paved area with a fire pit.

Multiple outdoor areas include a space with built-in seating, a kitchen, Bose sound system and heating.

The property also hosted many a party for the 226-game AFL player, including his 30th birthday bash.

“There were roughly 170 people present throughout the night (of my 30th),” Zaharakis said.

“Parties around the pool are perfect when the back yard and pool lights are lit up at night.

“I’ve had a huge house-warming party, Grand Final days, Melbourne Cup, Christmas Day, NYE, Survivor premiere – you name the event and I’ve probably had a party at my house because of it.”

Zaharkis hosted many parties at the home.

The new owners will love the indoor sports arena.

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He previously told the Herald Sun that he loved how quiet the place is, describing it as “an oasis to come home to”.

“I love the split level into a lounge room, boasting a fireplace perfect for Melbourne winters,” Zaharkis said.

The lounger room is perfect for a movie night.

Room for a bottle or two.

“However, I cannot go past the pool table room overlooking the basketball court.”

Zaharkis bought the home in 2018 for $3.3m.

Since retiring from the AFL, Zaharakis starred in a series of hit TV show Australian Survivor, and recently taken up competing in triathlons and Ironman events.

Zaharakis, who dates model and influencer Amy Pejkovic, both say they are excited for their next chapter.

Amy Pejkovic and David Zaharakis.

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Originally published as David Zaharakis: Former Essendon star scores $3.5m+ payday for Lower Plenty home