Allhomes - January 24, 2026

Seaside sanctuary

Luxury living in Mollymook awaits

Note from the editor

Welcome to our 2026 summer edition! Whether you’re relaxing cityside or coastal-bound, we’re thrilled to bring you this special issue. For the frst time, Allhomes is hitting the road and heading down the South Coast – the region many of us embrace as our home away from home. Inside, we dive into the seaside towns Canberrans love most, from the surf vibes of Broulee (p12) to Batemans Bay (p14). Before you hit the water, check out our 2026 Property Trends story (p8) for the hottest suburbs to watch. And, if the salt air has you dreaming of a permanent stay, don’t miss The Investor (p18) detailing the perks of buying your own holiday retreat versus a traditional investment. Happy home hunting!

Tathra treasure a rare fnd

You’ll get the best of both bush and beach at this gorgeous home on the Sapphire Coast.

An architecturally inspired four-bedroom coastal retreat at 14 Francis Hollis Drive in Tathra spans three levels and offers views of the ocean and lush tropical gardens.

Striking contemporary design, natural wood and stone finishes, abundant natural light, seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, and expansive decks combine to create a private oasis.

“From morning swims and coffee at the beach to evenings spent on the balcony watching the waves roll in, this property is more than a home,” says agent Natalie Scott of Tathra Beach Real Estate. “It’s an unrivalled lifestyle in one of Tathra’s most coveted addresses.”

With a population of around 1500 and fewer than 100 residential dwellings, Tathra is a tightly held market. The listing has a price guide of $2.29 million.

Lucy Jones

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Editor Laura Valic

laura.valic@domain.com.au

Senior designer Colleen Chin Quan

Graphic designer Emma Drake

Head of print & B2B content Sarah Millar

Group content director Mark Roppolo

Chief marketing officer Aisling Finch

President Jason Pellegrino

Sales leader Nick Tinling

Marketing manager Bree Baguley Allhomes

Source:

WHAT TO SEE THIS WEEKEND

Words by Lucy Jones

Rivett

49 Darwinia Terrace

$1.575 million+ 4  2  3  EER 2

Private sale

Agent: Independent Property Group South, Nicholas Jacob 0432 177 449

Step into a suburban oasis of grand proportions. Sitting on a 982-square-metre block, this newly renovated family home has more than 240 square metres of internal living space. Parents can retreat to the luxurious main-bedroom suite – with a private terrace – on the frst foor, while the kids can choose from three bedrooms, a study and multiple living areas. Outside, sun-soaked decks, expansive lawns and even a veggie patch invite a slower way of life.

North Narooma

51 Appleby Road

$1.595 million

4  2  2

Private sale

Agent: Ben Bate Real Estate, Ben Bate (02) 4476 1400

Wake to the sound of birdsong and the scent of eucalyptus at this rural retreat just six minutes from the sands of Narooma. This beautifully crafted timber-and-pole-frame house sits on nearly three hectares, with the potential for grand gardens, hobby farming or just relaxing in the tranquil bushland. Cathedral ceilings with exposed timber beams, wide verandahs, a cosy wood freplace and a chef’s kitchen make for a truly magical hinterland hideaway.

3/53 Springvale Drive

Private sale

Agent: Bastion Property Group, Theo Koutsikamanis 0431 543 649

Space, style and low-maintenance living await at this brand-new townhouse just steps from the Hawker shopping precinct. Soaring ceilings and oversized windows welcome an abundance of natural light, while herringbone timber fooring, stone benchtops and feature tiles create a warm, relaxed atmosphere. One of just three in a boutique development, this home has the makings of a magnifcent lifestyle with multiple living spaces, a butler’s pantry, walk-in wardrobes and private courtyards.

Private sale

Agent: Marq Property, Sam Taylor 0451 158 887

Once named Australia’s best master-planned community, Crace is a stylish slice of suburbia with a strong sense of community. This fve-bedroom house will feel like home from the moment you step inside, from the cosy lounge room to the sunny open-plan kitchen, which leads to a covered outdoor area with a built-in barbecue. Smart design and ample space make it easy to host new neighbours and keep family life running smoothly.

Private sale

Agent: Raine & Horne Batemans Bay, Adam Porteous 0414 726 014

A prime investment opportunity on the northern edge of Batemans Bay, this compact building houses four newly renovated one and two-bedroom apartments, a few hundred metres from the sheltered waters of Long Beach. With a shared laundry, communal barbecue area and plenty of of-street parking, it’s ready for the busy holiday market or long-term leases. Only two hours from Canberra, this could be the start of a new coastal lifestyle, complete with a guaranteed income.

Words by Jil Hogan

Hotspots to watch as market rebounds

After a sluggish stretch, housing conditions are improving, with value-driven suburbs emerging strongly.

After years of subdued conditions, Canberra’s housing market is poised to not only recover in 2026 but also scale new heights.

According to the Domain Forecast Report 2026, the city’s median house price is set to hit a record $1.18 million, up around $78,000 from current levels, with unit prices projected to reach $631,000.

So, which suburbs are the hotspots to watch over the coming year?

Several agents point to Canberra’s Inner South, but not necessarily the usual suspects, while agents operating in regions over the ACT border (which cater to Canberra workers or sea/treechangers) note that shifting lifestyle preferences are bringing these formerly quiet suburbs into sharper focus.

Quality and location

draw

buyers

Over the past nine to 12 months, agent Michael Morris of Hive Property says Grifth in Canberra’s Inner South has “come far in front of [heavyweights] Red Hill and Deakin” as a value proposition.

“I think post-COVID people want to get outside and be more active,” he says. “Grifth ofers a spot where it’s a centrepoint next to Manuka, but it is still close to all the schools.”

Oumaya Escribe of Belle Property Canberra says Barton also presents an appealing package.

“Barton continues to stand out, with its mix of tightly held residential pockets, evolving apartment stock, proximity to the Parliamentary Triangle and strong owner-occupier demand,” she says.

While Barton shares much of the prestige and convenience of Kingston and Manuka, Escribe says it ofers consistently compelling value that’s appealing to all ends of the market – from young professionals andfrst-home buyers to downsizers and even investors – with strong short-term accommodation returns.

“Downsizers really like the location with the proximity to the lake, but not being right on it,” she says.

“From my experience, the build quality in Barton seems to be superior. I see fewer building issues. Some of the apartments have a bit more character, and they’re older, which tends to ofer larger apartment sizes.”

The forecast report reveals Canberra remains Australia’s most afordable capital city when comparing home prices to household incomes. Morris and Escribe agree that, no matter where they look, Canberra buyers know precisely what they want and aren’t afraid to wait for it.

“Buyers have the money to spend and want to spend it on something high quality,” Morris says. “Our recent advice to vendors doing knockdown-rebuilds is to stop focusing on just bottom-line

feasibility and actually create a quality product because people will pay for them if they’re there.

“I wouldn’t have said that 18 months ago. I would have said just build something that’s big and feels nice, and get it in the market as soon as you can. Now buyers are saying, ‘we can see the quality’s not there, we can see where they’ve cut corners’, and they just won’t buy them.”

Escribe says even frst-home buyers have long checklists.

“I don’t think there’s urgency to just buy a place, it has to tick more boxes,” she says. “Buyers are much more educated and they do their own research. People aren’t settling for less than what they want.”

Finding value and community

Other buyers are fnding value and an appealing lifestyle beyond the ACT border. George Southwell from Ray White Rural Canberra Yass says the hotspot to watch in 2026 is Yass, citing strong economic development and afordability as two growth drivers.

Major infrastructure projects are bringing an infux of workers to the region, while young families and professionals are also taking a closer look, particularly those with fexible work arrangements.

“I didn’t think Yass would ever be trendy, but it’s getting there,” Southwell says.

“Buyers are coming out for afordability. There are lots of young couples starting

“Buyers have the money to spend and want to spend it on something high quality.” Michael Morris

families or looking to start families. They want education [opportunities], they want afordable housing and they want a community, and they’re coming out here and fnding all three.”

According to the latest Domain data, the median house price in Yass is $720,000. For both live-in-owners and investors, Southwell says the numbers stack up.

“In Yass, you’re getting a 6 per cent return on your rental investment on average,” he says.

“Then you’re getting capital growth of 4.5 to 5 per cent every year.

“I don’t know too many desirable places in Australia where you can live, educate your family, be 45 minutes from a major centre and get 5 per cent return.”

And it’s not all about the bottom line.

Southwell says newcomers are quickly drawn in by the community feel.

“The run club every Saturday morning is hustling and bustling,” he says. “You walk down the street and [there are people wearing] activewear and they all go and get a cofee. That’s now commonplace in Yass.”

Afordable coastal pockets

On the South Coast, Dawn Mason from Ray White Batemans Bay says Moruya is one suburb to watch, with the new stage four of the hospital project driving renewed interest.

She also highlights the ongoing popularity of coastal pockets such as Broulee, Tomakin, Mossy Point, Ulladulla and Malua Bay, noting some suburbs ofer unexpected value.

“Some of the pricing in Malua Bay blows me away,” Mawson says.

“You can get a really afordable holiday-type home there.”

She says buyers are focused on presentation and return potential, and anything priced under $800,000 is attracting intense demand driven by government grants that cut of at that threshold.

Words by Jil Hogan

Coastal homes that beneft mind and body

For those planning a downsizing move, the South Coast is hardly a tough sell. And for those ready to scale back their square metreage without sacrifcing their lifestyle, Carve Mollymook ofers a compelling package.

Perched on one of the highest points of the coastal enclave, it’s a boutique collection of just six single-level residences envisaged to deliver an elevated lifestyle.

“The apartments are designed with living in mind, so they’re all oversized with high-end fnishes, from the living spaces to the bedrooms,” says Andrew Metcalf of The Property Collective.

“For those looking to downsize to a single-level home, Carve is lowmaintenance living, walking distance

from the beach and with plenty of amenities on-site.”

Already under construction, with completion due in late 2026, Carve Mollymook ofers luxury beachside living, featuring a mix of three and fourbedroom layouts with two or two-anda-half bathrooms. All of the residences will include generous foor plans and premium fnishes.

Designed by Walsh Architects and Raw Process Design, the architecture and interiors embrace soft curves, coastal tones and natural textures, taking their cues from the development’s surrounding landscape.

“The design of Carve Mollymook has been conceived with a deep consideration centred on how people live

within their home – calm, comfortable and efortlessly refned,” says Sean Smith, managing director of NEXOM, the development team behind the project.

“Earthy tones and tactile natural materials create spaces that feel grounded yet elevated, moving in rhythm with everyday life.

“The architecture and interiors are meticulously resolved, where every line, junction and fnish is deliberate.”

At a glance

Carve Mollymook

1 Buchan Street, Mollymook

Developer: NEXOM

Design: Walsh Architects and Raw Process Design

Number of residences: Six

Prices: Three-bedroom penthouses from $2,749,500, four-bedroom from $2.475 million.

Completion: Late 2026

Agent: The Property Collective, Andrew Metcalf 0428 759 273

Feature we love: The wellness-focused communal amenities on offer to residents, from the heated pool to the sauna and the yoga/meditation deck.

From the developer:

“Wellness underpins the entire experience, with a calibre of residential amenity not previously seen in Mollymook.”

“Carve is low-maintenance living, walking distance from the beach and with plenty of amenities on-site.” Andrew Metcalf

Left:

A luxurious heated pool is just one of the wellness-focused communal amenities.

However, the impressive inclusions stretch beyond the private spaces.

Inside, the fnishes have been curated to suit the development’s beautiful coastal setting and support both comfort and longevity.

The kitchens will feature high-end Miele appliances, including integrated dishwashers and cooktops, as well as sleek stone benchtops and splashbacks, and premium cabinetry.

Bathrooms echo the mood of a boutique hotel, with full-height tiling, generous showers, and beautiful freestanding futed baths.

Engineered timber foors fow through the living areas, while ducted heating and cooling ensure year-round comfort. Throughout, fully integrated custom joinery is also included.

On the ground foor, Carve Mollymook includes a suite of wellness-focused communal amenities that rival many resorts: a heated pool lined with daybeds, a sunken fre-pit lounge, a residents’ outdoor kitchen and dining space, a sauna, an outdoor shower, and a yoga and meditation deck tucked into the landscaped gardens.

“Wellness underpins the entire experience, with a calibre of residential amenity not previously seen in Mollymook,” Smith says.

All homes feature lift access – the new development is the only residential building in Mollymook with one – from a secure basement car park.

Here, each residence is allocated two private spaces and additional communal storage, ideal for surfboards, fshing gear and other beach essentials.

The building is orientated to the north, which ensures privacy for the residences and allows the upper levels to enjoy

views of Mollymook Golf Course, Collers Beach and Mollymook Beach, and the Tasman Sea.

“It’s tucked away at the end of a culde-sac, so it’s quiet and private,” Metcalf says. “While it’s quite elevated, it’s still just a short walk from the beach.” For buyers, it all adds up to a lifestyle that balances ease with elegance, Smith says. “These homes are conceived as private sanctuaries. Carve Mollymook is a place of quiet confdence – assured in its ofering and beautifully attuned to the character of its coastal setting.”

This feature is part of an Allhomes Deluxe package.

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Words by Karen Hardy

Idoubt there’s one street on the South Coast that epitomises summer more than Broulee’s Coronation Drive.

On one side, there’s North Beach. Further along at the patrolled South Beach, you’ll fnd families on the banks of Candlagan Creek, where the little ones can play away from the waves.

On the other side is an eclectic collection of homes, from beach shacks to high-end houses, where owners can listen to the waves and catch glimpses of the water from their front doors.

Beyond its natural beauty, Broulee boasts an ever-expanding range of amenities, including the funky Broulee Brewhouse, which pairs house-made ales with gourmet treats such as Szechuan salt-and-pepper squid.

But this coastal town is more than a holiday destination. Jessica Williams of Blackshaw Coastal is a Broulee local and says the benefts of living and owning in the suburb are endless.

Median price houses $1.15m Median price units $685,000

RECENT SALES

4/52-54

“You’re investing in a tightly held coastal community with strong longterm growth, incredible lifestyle appeal and consistent buyer interest,” she says.

Demand is strong, Williams adds, with buyers recognising the lifestyle and longterm value the community ofers. “Supply is low, competition is high, and quality homes are being snapped up quickly by locals and out-of-area buyers,” she says.

Midway between Batemans Bay and Moruya, Broulee ofers two of the region’s top schools: the Catholic Carroll College and the Anglican St Peter’s College. There’s also a public primary school and a childcare centre.

Williams says Broulee is attracting more young families than ever before.

“Everyone wants a slice of this beautiful community, from the coastal walks to great cofee and food, and those quiet winter mornings with the whole beach to yourself … plus that feeling of being on holiday every single day,” she says.

Single Fin is my Saturday open-home stop for a reason. It has strong beach vibes, great brews and a beautiful space that the local owners share with the community – complete with funky art and that efortless Broulee charm.

The new Outpost Bar at Train Street Central is a standout. Classy, intimate and unlike anything Broulee has seen, with delicious food and a curated Australian wine list crafted with heart by owners Peter and Lee.

The passionate volunteers of the Broulee Surfers Surf Life Saving Club run a Fridaynight bar and Sunday Summer Sippers. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, feel like a local and enjoy the best view over South Broulee Beach.

Above: The clear waters of long, sweeping Broulee Beach are known as a great place to learn how to surf. Left: Candlagan Creek attracts families, kayakers and stand-uppaddleboarders. Below: The sound of happy patrons mingles with the roar of the surf at the Broulee Brewhouse.

Scan the code to see Allhomes listings in Broulee

TOP TWO / BROULEE

7 Coronation Drive

Contact agent

2  1  2

Private sale

Agent: Blackshaw Coastal, Jessica Williams 0488 554 635

The Red Beach House is something of a Broulee icon, a classic coastal shack updated with a stylish touch. The spacious front deck is just a stone’s throw from the beach, and the fully enclosed backyard ofers privacy. There’s a modern kitchen and bathroom, and two good-sized bedrooms. It’s summer captured in a cute little red package.

4a Train Street

$1.895 million

4  2  2

Private sale

Agent: My Agent Team, Megan Goucher 0410 582 875

This luxurious four-bedroom home is 70 metres from the beach and ofers a plunge pool, a fexible foor plan and low-maintenance landscaping. Built in 2024, it has high-end fnishes, a luxe kitchen and butler’s pantry, reversecycle air-conditioning and a solar power system. The upstairs primary suite is segregated from the other three bedrooms located downstairs.

Words by Lucy Jones

Batemans Bay reborn

Change is in the air in Batemans Bay. The largest town in Eurobodalla Shire, it’s been somewhat unloved – and unlovely – for a number of years. It’s the place to grab groceries and supplies before heading to one of the glorious beach towns that dot its fringes.

However, the new Batemans Bay Masterplan promises to change all that, proposing diversifed housing, higher-density developments, new public spaces, and a revitalised nighttime economy.

Eurobodalla Shire Mayor Matthew Hatcher told the media last year that “the time is right … we’ve hit this spot where everybody wants to see a better town”.

The Landmark project is part of this new vision for the coastal neighbourhood. Set on an elevated block at 1a Bent Street, the boutique

development will comprise 29 luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, featuring light-flled, open-plan interiors, with most ofering impressive water views.

There will be nothing else like it in Batemans Bay.

“We’ve had interest from investors, retirees and downsizers with inquiries from Canberra and Sydney, as well as locals,” says agent Adam Sadil of Sadil Quinlan Properties.

A multi-award-winning team is behind the project, including builders Monarch Building Solutions, architects Turco & Associates and interior designers Studio & You.

Monarch has more than 20 years’ experience in the ACT and along the NSW South Coast, working on major public buildings in Batemans Bay, Bega and Gungahlin, as well as post-bushfre reconstruction in Cobargo.

At a glance

Landmark

Batemans Bay

Display suite: 2a Beach

Road, Batemans Bay

Prices: Two-bedroom apartments from $765,000

Builder: Monarch Building Solutions

Architect: Turco & Associates

Interiors: Studio & You

Agent: Sadil Quinlan Properties,

Adam Sadil 0413 836 698

Feature we love: The prime location, with shops, cafes, restaurants and community amenities nearby.

From the agent: “There was careful consultation when designing the units to offer what people really want.”

Seaside resurgence: Landmark signals Batemans Bay’s long-awaited transformation into a vibrant South Coast destination.

Although Landmark isn’t targeting an older demographic, thoughtful design and integrated accessibility appeal to that lucrative market. Sadil says he has seen sales lost in other developments over a lack of accessible features.

“Where other builders and developers place under bench ovens as standard, we’re putting them in at standing height,” he says. “There was quite careful consultation when designing the units to incorporate what people actually want.”

The sophisticated interiors will include a range of high-quality fnishes, from engineered timber fooring and stone countertops to top-tier appliances and custom joinery.

Space is also at a premium. For example, the oversized two-bedroom apartments (with en suites) ofer from 91 to 110 square metres of internal living area, plus large, sun-drenched balconies designed for outdoor entertaining. That means there’s enough space in

the bedrooms for king-sized beds and plenty of integrated storage, ensuring downsizers don’t need to make too many compromises.

As always, location is key, and Landmark is the only new development in Batemans Bay within walking distance of the town centre. Shops, restaurants and the waterfront are just a short stroll, while the Bay Pavilions Arts + Aquatic centre is just a few hundred metres from the front door.

Further afeld, Eurobodalla’s popular beaches are within a 20-minute drive. Sadil confrmed that all one-bedroom apartments have been sold, and that completion of the development is on schedule for Easter 2027. The two-bedroom apartments start from $765,000 or, for the ultimate slice of coastal luxury living, the three-bedroom penthouse is priced at $2.3 million.

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Words by Laura Valic

A bold new beginning in black

This stunning coastal home showcases luxury, rural living, sweeping ocean views and contemporary styling.

When viewing this spectacular house perched on a coastal bush block overlooking McKenzies Beach in Malua Bay, it’s hard to imagine that only a few short years ago, the area had been ravaged by bushfre. In the aftermath, all that remained of the original property at 651 George Bass Drive was concrete slabs and a pool husk.

Placed on the market in 2020, the 2.19-hectare site was sold to a couple from the Southern Highlands who embarked on a project that would not only meet the practical needs of their family but also honour the emotional signifcance of rebuilding.

The response to their brief by local design-and-build company Perrem was a sprawling home comprising two pavilions – one for the parents and a smaller one for their adult children to return to during university breaks. While white, grey and neutral tones are common in newer builds along Australian coastlines, this home stands in bold contrast. A confdent black aesthetic defnes the property, creating a sophisticated silhouette against surrounding bushland. Black cladding, chosen for both the exterior and interior, is expertly paired with polished concrete foors and high plywood ceilings, striking

“It’s a very calming property and when you walk inside, you’re immediately struck by the view of the ocean.” Sarah Ralston

a balance between modern edge and organic comfort.

Agent Sarah Ralston of Belle Property

Batemans Bay says the home, completed at the end of 2023, makes an enticing frst impression.

“It’s a very calming property and when you walk inside, you’re immediately struck by the view of the ocean,” she says.

“Because of its elevated setting away from the road, it also feels incredibly private.”

The design ensures the environment is the protagonist.

Large windows and glass doors allow natural light to food the central pavilion, which houses the main-bedroom suite – complete with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite – alongside the kitchen and open-plan dining and living area.

These expansive glass walls frame unobstructed views over the landscape out toward Jimmies Island.

“It has been designed in a way to really capture the views from every possible area,” Ralston says.

“Once it’s all opened up, that indooroutdoor feel is very evident. It’s a real feature of the property.”

At one end of the pavilion sits a kitchen that’s ideal for hosting. Black stone with marbled white veining covers an enormous island and benchtops, contrasted by lighter-toned, touchfree matt cabinets. The high-end ft-out includes an induction cooktop, a 600-millimetre oven, and a Billi tap for instant boiling or chilled water. Adding a unique touch is a bar area featuring 20-litre kegs, which can be flled at nearby Broulee Brewhouse.

This entertainment hub fows directly onto the terrace and the in-ground pool, ofering a sanctuary for days when the beach is best enjoyed from a distance. Privacy and versatility are core to the home’s layout. Past a rear courtyard, the second pavilion ofers three bedrooms (one with an en suite), a second bathroom, and a lounge area. Accessed by an external fight of stairs, it provides segregation from the main pavilion.

Malua Bay

651 George Bass Drive

$3.95 million-$4.35 million

4  3  2

Private sale

Agent: Belle Property Batemans Bay, Sarah Ralston 0404 051 341

Scan the code to see the listing

“This separate pod for families to come and stay was designed in a way that is quite diferent to anything else that we’ve seen in this area,” Ralston says.

The property is also suited for boutique livestock or equestrian pursuits. The owners currently breed goats and will even include a couple of alpacas in the sale to an interested buyer. There’s secure fencing, multiple paddocks, and water infrastructure. Three sheds add further functionality, with one confgured as a home ofce/studio.

Despite its secluded feel, 651 George Bass Drive is remarkably connected. Ralston says it would be ideal for a buyer who wants to be only a few minutes from the local shops or 15 minutes from the Batemans Bay town centre.

“Moruya airport is also less than a 15-minute drive away where fights to Sydney depart on a daily basis,” she says. For those seeking the rare trifecta of acreage, ocean views and high-end design, this property delivers a turnkey solution for a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Words by Sue Williams

When one could be better than two

When buying an investment holiday home, is it better to buy one or spread your capital across several? The experts are divided.

The holiday-letting season is looming and presenting investors with sticky decisions.

Should they buy a retreat they’ll want to use some of the time and rent out for the rest, or is it better to buy purely as an investment? And in either case, does it make more fnancial sense to buy a string of holiday homes in diferent locations or to buy the best they can in one?

Financial advisor Gemma Mitchell, author of The Money Reset, says it’s vital to determine the main goal frst.

“Buying a lifestyle asset and becoming almost an ‘accidental investor’, renting it out when they’re not using it, might not turn out the best investment strategy

in terms of capital growth and returns, but it is a good way to ofset some of the costs,” she says. “If, on the other hand, it’s purely an investment, you’ll think about it diferently, and look for somewhere that’s low maintenance with a good cash fow.”

In the case of a holiday home being bought for both personal use and rental, investors might decide to buy the best one they can, in an excellent location, to suit their own needs. For investors, the decision is more complex.

“Buying a number is a good way to spread the risk and opportunity for diferent rates of growth and it gives you fnancial fexibility as you can sell at diferent times when you want capital,”

“From the maintenance point of view … three or four rentals is a headache.” Theo Chambers GETTY IMAGES

Mitchell says.

“But it might mean less income, while the outgoings might be similar. Multiple properties can mean multiple fxed expenses, including the costs of managing them, as well as the stamp duty in buying each.”

Theo Chambers, the chief executive and co-founder of Shore Financial, is frmly on the side of buying the best holiday house investment you can, rather than several smaller properties. In addition to working for your own use or as part of a transition to retirement plan, it can also be the most proftable outlay.

“A large house in a more desirable location, which is more expensive, will

appreciate in value more and rent more consistently,” he says. “People want to rent a place not far from a town where they can visit restaurants and pubs.

“As well, often they go with other families and want a bigger house than they have at home, and a good backyard for a barbecue. From the maintenance point of view, it’s also better. Trying to maintain three or four rentals is a headache.”

He recommends that investors review the bookings for houses and apartments in any chosen location to determine how often they’re reserved and at what price.

However, Daryl Smith, buyer’s advocate, real estate agent and the

head of growth at MadeComfy, which manages short-term rentals, says sometimes two two-bedroom apartments on the Sunshine Coast can beat a big house on the Mornington Peninsula for returns.

“It depends on picking the correct areas where there are still growth opportunities,” says Smith, who lists Australia’s top fve holiday home investments as: Burleigh Heads to Tweed Heads; Noosa; Busselton and Dunsborough to Margaret River; the Hunter Valley; and the NSW South Coast, from Kiama to Shellharbour. “There can be good earnings potential for both.”

Words by Jil Hogan

Why choose between acreage living and a waterfront address when you could have both?

No. 42 Skipjack Reach, in Tuross Head, is an expansive, private coastal estate, combining architect-designed living with direct water frontage.

Set on just over a hectare, this four-bedroom, three-bathroom home sits elevated above Coila Lake, with uninterrupted views stretching all the way to the Pacifc Ocean.

From the retreat-style main-bedroom suite, you can watch the sun rise over the water without getting out of bed or enjoy leisurely soaks in the free-standing bath, which anchors the oversized en suite.

Elsewhere in the home, foor-to-ceiling windows food the interiors with natural light, while cross-ventilation and soaring cathedral ceilings keep the spaces cool and airy throughout summer.

The kitchen, complete with a butler’s pantry, overlooks substantial living areas and is well-suited to family life or

“Opportunities like this simply don’t come around. Waking to the sunrise over the lake, with the ocean beyond, it feels private, peaceful, and completely unlike anything else on the South Coast.” entertaining, while a slow-combustion freplace provides warmth in winter.

A separate games room allows children or guests to spread out. On one side of the home, a covered deck enjoys water views, while on the other, a cosy outdoor space boasts another freplace.

Also outside, Japanese-inspired gardens wrap the home in privacy, leading down to the water’s edge, where kayaking or fshing could be part of daily life. Topping it of is extensive garaging, solar power and rainwater storage.

AREA About halfway between Moruya and Narooma on the South Coast lies Tuross Head, a place where life revolves around the water. The pace is relaxed, the community feel is strong and the seafood is fresh.

DESIGN DIGEST

Compiled by Pauline Morrissey

Life outdoors

Celebrating design in the open air, this edit embraces sculptural rest, playful patterns and glossy outdoor statements.

ORGANIC REST | Curved like a tide pool, the Rockpool collection by Adam Goodrum for Tait makes outdoor comfort feel sculptural. From armchair to three-seater, every piece champions circular design, premium materials and Australian craftsmanship. madebytait.com.au

STYLE | Striking stripes meet slim lines in the Malmo outdoor collection by Coco Republic. With Scandinavian simplicity and Japanese-inspired weaving, each piece –lounge, sunlounge or dining chair – enliven garden backdrops with a playful, patterned punch. cocorepublic.com.au

LAZY LUXE | Stretching out with ease, the Palissade Cord Chaise Longue by Paris-based brothers Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec for HAY showcases intricate handwoven cords. In shades from creamy white to iron red, it’s an artful invitation to linger outdoors. hayshop.com.au

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Available in green or white and designed in varied heights, it’s a versatile statement piece for both indoor and outdoor settings. kavehome.com

Elevated in a quiet Melba street, this well-kept four-bedroom home offers treetop views, multiple living zones, and a sunny north-facing garden room. The kitchen connects to family living and opens to a large covered deck and secure backyard, whilst to the front of the home, you are welcomed by a formal living and dining room with garden outlook. Double glazed windows and ducted heating and cooling for year round comfort, whilst a double garage and extensive under house storage provides space for tinkering. Buyer price guide of $1,050,000+ and pre-auction offers considered. EER 4.0 New Listing

Welcome to the Next Chapter, Team Harget

Team Harget has joined Blackshaw Manuka, bringing decades of proven experience and strategic expertise. Led by Louise’s 21 years specialising in Canberra’s Inner South, the team is known for tailored campaigns and deep market insight. Strengthened by Janae’s auctioneering skill and psychological insight, and supported by Ruby’s precision-led execution, Team Harget delivers a premium real estate experience.

CONTACT LOUISE HARGET

Call: 0412 997 894

Email: lharget@blackshaw.com.au

Blackshaw Manuka

Set on 1,037m2 in a peaceful pocket of Melba, this beautifully presented four-bedroom home offers flowing interiors and a dream garden lifestyle. Double doors open to a spacious living area with blackbutt timber floors and natural light. The entertainer’s kitchen features a Corian island, walk-in pantry, and built-in coffee machine, flowing into open-plan dining and living. A separate formal lounge with electric fireplace adds warmth and flexibility. Outdoors is a true highlight: a covered entertaining deck with deluxe swim spa, landscaped gardens, fruit trees, veggie beds, cubby house, and a garden studio perfect for creative use or retreat. Buyer price guide $1,149,000+ and pre-auction offers will be considered. EER 1.0 New Listing

If you’re thinking of selling, talk to the team at your local Blackshaw office because

10 Anembo Street, Narrabundah .

Private, Family-Focused Living in Leafy Inner South

Quietly positoned in a well-established pocket of Narrabundah, this invitng four-bedroom home delivers a rare blend of privacy, space and everyday comfort. Set on a manageable 465sqm block, it ofers the ease of low-maintenance living while retaining a charming, cotage-like warmth that immediately feels like home.

belleproperty.com

7 February 10.00am On Site View as advertsed or by appointment

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Aaron Papahatzis

Dan McAlpine

Steve Whitelock

Dan McAlpine

Amr Bakry

Andrew White

Aaron Papahatzis

Josh Bruce

Aaron Papahatzis

Andrew White

Josh Yewdall

Steve Whitelock

Dan McAlpine

Aaron Papahatzis

Aaron Papahatzis

Josh Yewdall

Josh Bruce

Aaron Papahatzis

Andrew White

Dan McAlpine

Aaron Papahatzis

Aaron Papahatzis

Andrew White

Josh Yewdall

Andrew White

Steve Whitelock

Aaron Papahatzis

Aaron Papahatzis

Andrew White

Dan McAlpine

Andrew White

Aaron Papahatzis

Josh Yewdall

Aaron Papahatzis

Andrew White

Andrew White

Andrew White

Josh Yewdall

COAST & COUNTRY

Words by Jil Hogan

Yass

7 Crocker Close

$1.49 million-$1.56 million

5  3  3

Private sale

Agent: Cazz Blyss Property, Cazz Blyss 0407 483 447

Built in the late 1800s and thoughtfully extended, this five-bedroom home blends heritage details with modern living. Open fireplaces, timber-lined ceilings and window seats anchor the original rooms, while the kitchen and family zone centres on a slow-combustion fireplace. A children’s retreat boasts built-in bunks.

Hill Top

50 Tirrike Lane

$1.875 million

4  3  6

Private sale

Agent: McGrath Snowy Mountains, Sally McCoullough 0484 322 214

Set on two hectares, this four-bedroom home offers spacious, comfortable living, wrapped in mountain views. High ceilings frame open-plan living with a wood fire, while a sunlit conservatory and multiple sheds cater to work and hobbies. Outside, a greenhouse orchard is bursting with fruits.

Tathra

127 Bega Street

$1.35 million 4  2

Private sale

Agent: Forbes Stynes Real Estate, Kye Tutt 0447 886 897

Fully renovated, this three-bedroom, two-storey Tathra home is a relaxed coastal base with modern design. Light-filled interiors centre on a sleek kitchen, while a hardwood deck captures ocean and bush views. A separate, self-contained studio adds flexibility. The beach and village are minutes away.

SPOTLIGHT ON

Steeped in history, this Sapphire Coast gem features the iconic Tathra Wharf, NSW’s only deep-sea timber wharf and a premier spot for diving. Perched on the headland, the historic 1888 Tathra Hotel offers craft brews and ocean views. The landscape invites exploration: spend your days mountain biking through bushland, relaxing on Tathra Beach or swimming in the sheltered waters of Kianinny Bay to experience the natural beauty.

Spacious Rural Retreat with Modern Comforts

1349 Bungendore Road, Bywong, NSW

• Set on a sprawling 10ha* (24.86ac*), this family home has been cherished and offers a perfect blend of comfort, functionality and country lifestyle

• Thoughtfully renovated home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, heating, solar + a 2023 deck addition

• Versatile rural land with paddocks, orchard, space for cattle and sheep + multiple water sources

• Easy access with main road frontage, near school bus stops and public transport

28 Pollux Street, Yass, NSW

• This well-maintained home has been in the same family for around 50 years, with the residence built in 1995

• Perfect for families or downsizers with 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and living spaces with air conditioning

• Roof-mounted solar panels, NBN connection and practical storage with garages and sheds

• Generous garden with direct access to the neighbouring park

• Convenient location near school bus stops, shops and local services

raywhiteruralyass.com.au

• Flat block with water views both beach and ocean.

• Walk from the house to the beach and shops no need for the car.

• 3 bedroom 2 Bathrooms upstairs and 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms downstairs, extra toilet in the shed.

• Separately metered so it can be used as holiday or permanent let while you enjoy the other section of the house.

• Double brick downstairs, suspended concrete slab upstairs. They don’t build them like this anymore.

• Lots of parking spaces, suits jet skis and fishing boats

• Brand new 3 Bedrooms 2 bathrooms x2 duplex.

• Just in last stages of completion.

• Designed with different plans, facades and colour schemes.

• Beautiful fit out with a walk in pantry, high angled ceilings and nice sized yard, end of cul-de-sac.

• Perfect for bowler or member of the Malua Bay fishing club.

• Short distance

4471 2344 | maluabay.ljhooker.com.au

4 2 2 892m²

437 George Bass Drive

Malua Bay

• Brand new home with all the extras.

• Features include double oven, his & hers walk in robes, double vanity in the ensuite.

• Alfresco area, Fujitsu multi zoned R/C ducted air con.

• NBN fibre to house, high speed internet .

• BTB Alarm.

• Close proximity to Malua Bay and shops, beaches, boat ramp, restaurants.

Fo r S ale $1,179,000

V iew B y app oin tm e n t

Age n t Karen Herrick 0417 990 014 karen.herrick@ljhooker.com.au

LJ Hooker Malua Bay 02 4471 2344 | maluabay.ljhooker.com.au

3 2 6

2.03 ha (Approx 5 Acres)

748 The Ridge Road

Malua Bay

• 2.03Ha - Just a short drive from both Malua Bay, beaches, shops and Surf Beach.

• Original house was the Batemans Bay post office which was moved to the block in the 80's.

• Some Gorgeous original features ie; high ceilings, fat timber floor boards, verandah sleepout.

• Large separate music room setup-would suit other hobbie enthusiasts, 22 power points.

• Large dam pumped to 7 outdoor taps for the gardens.

• Approx 60,000 ltr tank for the house, concrete driveway from tar road, no dusty dirt roads.

Fo r S ale $1,300,000

V iew B y app oin tm e n t

Age n t Karen Herrick 0417 990 014

karen.herrick@ljhooker.com.au

LJ Hooker Malua Bay 02 4471 2344 | maluabay.ljhooker.com.au

Luxurious Location

2 Reedy Place

Malua Bay

Prime Residential Land in Malua Bay with all the hard work done. DA for container home approved, and waiting for someone to build.

Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home with this parcel of residential land in one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods on the South Coast.

Enjoy the best of outdoor living with easy access to nearby parks, the cliff top trail walk and the pristine beaches of Malua Bay. Spend your weekends exploring the stunning coastline or drop the tinny in at Mosquito Bay and throw in a line!

2,329m²

15 Corymbia Place

Malua Bay

One of the best value blocks around!

Imagine buying a block of land that is 2329 sqm, where you can walk to the beach, the bowling club is just around the corner and cleared for just $545,000 oh and then there's the added bonus of a sensational water view! This is one of the best blocks on the market so why not take the time to go and walk over it so that you realise how every block you look at after this one is not going to compare.

Fo

ale $545,000

n t Karen Herrick 0 4 17 990 014

2,385m²

25 Timber Way

Surf Beach

2385sqm of residential zoned land by the sea. Close proximity to Surf Beach, Wimbie Beach and Lilli Pilli beach is a big block of lightly timbered land. Build your dream home on a block that you could put extra garaging on as well! Take advantage of the block size and maybe build a couple of duplexes or a large triplex (STCA), multiple dwellings permitted subject to bushfire compliance. Close enough to get onto George Bass Drive and be in Batemans Bay within approx 10 mins.

1,269m²

28A Sydney Street

Over 1000sqm of land in the creative, artistic tourist village of Mogo, with a DA approval for a 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom house, designed to be used for air B&B or a guest house that has perpetuity (which means that the DA will not run out over time) so if you don't want to build now hold it until you do and the DA will still be current. The potential is for you to build the house, which is designed to be built in 2 stages, if you want, and possibly rent rooms to people either on a permanent basis or for holiday experiences, which may include the people that are coming to experience the new Next Level mountain bike track which starts metres away from the back of this block. Whilst it will have over 170 kms of tracks in time to come, it currently has the first 70 kms of track finished and is receiving a lot of attention from mountain bike enthusiasts nationally already.

Words by Ray Sparvell

Blue-ribbon winner with historic pedigree

Monopoly players know the strongest path to success is to acquire prime properties that deliver the best returns, now and into the future.

Real life is no diferent, and this commercial opportunity in Grifth could defnitely be considered a long-term performer.

The two-storey building in central Bougainville Street is a stroll away from the Manuka Village shops and ofers just over 270 square metres of tenanted space.

In addition, there are 14 on-site parking bays. The building sits within the heritage-listed Blandfordia 5 precinct, one of Canberra’s earliest planned suburbs.

The property has undergone signifcant improvements since 2000 and was refurbished in 2022 with upgraded services and a quality ftout.

The property is leased to Terracon Legal, with a new fve-year lease and a similar option.

The other tenant, GH Nutrition, recently extended its lease until January 2028, with an option for a further two years. The leases include fxed annual

Grifth 30 Bougainville Street Circa $4 million

Agent: Colliers Canberra, Matthew Winter 0432 344 684

rent reviews of 3.5 per cent to 4 per cent across both tenancies.

Matthew Winter of Colliers Canberra says the building ofers a blue-ribbon investment opportunity. “Grifth continues to be an extremely popular pick for commercial investors,” he says.