Gladstone Park family home sells for $855,000 in fierce first-home buyer bidding war

A Melbourne couple turned their home of 17 years in the city’s northwest into a family haven and sparked a heated auction with first-home buyers. See the before-and-after photos.

9 Jessop Court, Gladstone Park has sold under the hammer for $855,000 to a young 26-year-old first-home buyer.

A Melbourne home’s incredible transformation from a fixer upper to an architectural marvel captured hearts and pockets of eager first-home buyers, selling at auction for $855,000.

The auction kicked off with an opening bid of $700,000 amid a tightly contested six-way bidding war.

The three-bedroom, one-bathroom abode at 9 Jessop Crt, Gladstone Park, owned by the Karalis family for 17 years, stood as a testament to the area’s “sizzling” housing market, according to Ray White Gladstone Park’s Phillip Mercieca.

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“This auction epitomises the post-Covid market strength — a result driven by sheer scarcity and determined bidders,” Mr Mercecia said.

“With just two homes currently on the market in Gladstone Park, opportunities like this are intensely sought after.

“It was a superb result on a gorgeous day – it was a full circle moment.”

Morelle and Frank Karalis’ (far right) farewell their Gladstone Park home to a lucky new young buyer.

The couple spent 17 years in the home raising their young children and have now relocated to a new area.

Originally purchased as a fixer-upper in 2007, the home underwent a stunning transformation from vendors Frank and Morelle Karalis.

“We bought it knowing a lot of work was needed, and over the years, it became our family haven,” Mrs Karalis said.

“It was an emotional decision to put the home on the market – our children grew up here; it has deep sentimental value.

Before: A closed in living space and kitchen in need of some love.

After: An open plan living, dining and kitchen area.

“Deciding to sell wasn’t easy, but we outgrew the space.”

The couple said their decision was softened by the fact that the new owner, a 26-year-old first-home buyer is embarking on his property journey in a space lovingly taken care and maintained and their family.

Inside, the house boasted high ceilings, a premium stone kitchen, and a grand bathroom.

Alfresco space overlooking lush greenery in the backyard.

A large laundry including a dryer and space for a large washing machine.

Outside, a large entertainment area awaits, complete with a built-in BBQ and alfresco space set against a lush, expansive backyard.

Mrs Morelle said to families and couples looking to buy to be picky if they can.

“Know what you want, commit to your checklist, and never settle,” she said.

Inside the bathroom when the Morelle’s purchased the home in 2009 …

To now: A grand luxurious family bathroom.

“Happiness in a home comes from meeting your needs without compromise.

“The new owner is a lovely young kid and the home is located in a nice court – it excites us he’ll likely settle here, raise a family and do what we did.”

Inside the Gladstone Park home, high ceilings provide spacious living spaces for the lucky buyer.

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Originally published as Gladstone Park family home sells for $855,000 in fierce first-home buyer bidding war