Cape Cod-inspired home in Goulburn comes with a century of history

Arguably one of the most elegant homes in Goulburn, is looking for new owners, just the sixth in its 107-year history.

This Cape Cod-inspired gem is set back from a tree-lined street, a siting that enhances its classic architectural lines amid a manicured garden setting on a level, 1308-square-metre block.

The interior has been lovingly maintained and sympathetically extended while retaining character features including high ceilings and timber sash windows within solid, double brick construction.

Owners Eddie and Jill Finch originally lived in a property behind 11 Hurst Street.

“We coveted the house for years and when it came onto the market we moved ‘hell and high water’ to buy it,” Eddie said.

The Finches took up residence in 1992 and two of their three children (two girls and a boy) have grown up there.

It was entered onto the National Trust register of significant homes in Goulburn around 1998.

An extension in 2006 added a further upstairs bedroom and parents’ retreat along with a conservatory, all designed in sympathy with the original building.

Two levels now provide some 280 square metres of living space including four bedrooms, a flexible fifth bedroom or study, living room, and a premium appointed kitchen.

Eddie said the living areas were his favourite spaces.

“The northern light spills into the house through the conservatory and washes into the kitchen, dining and living area,” he said.

“And we love there’s plenty of entertaining space.”

Eddie recalled that one daughter’s post-wedding breakfast had seen some 80 guests easily accommodated.

The Finches intend to stay in Goulburn for its convenience to Sydney, Canberra and the south coast with their now-adult children living in a variety of locations.

“The house will appeal to tree-changers or a professional couple looking for the ideal home to bring up children,” Eddie said.

No. 11 Hurst Street, Goulburn, will be auctioned on Saturday, August 20, at 11am through One Agency Goulburn agents Pavel Cheimardinov and Jeremy Grobben. Inspections by appointment. Price guide $850,000-plus.

Energy efficiency boosted

A classic 1939 Canberra home is distinguished by a feature unknown in many older residences – its owners have boosted its energy efficiency rating to a cosy 3.0.

Edwina and Jim Hagan bought the Ainslie home in 2000 because of its Herbert Crescent corner location and its open feel with views towards Hoddle Gardens.

“It was also a little quirky with nooks and crannies that set it apart,” she said.

“And it was also quite old for Canberra and we really liked that.”

An earlier extension had created plenty of space, but the Hagans set about improving home comfort and energy efficiency with double-glazing, Insulation and new floor coverings

The home has all the hallmarks of early Canberra architecture including terracotta roof tiles, high ceilings, picture rails and an inviting, open fireplace.

There are four bedrooms and a study, and two renovated bathrooms.

The homes sits on an 842 square metre block.

No. 37 Herbert Crescent, Ainslie, will be auctioned on Saturday, August 6 at 10.30am through LJ Hooker Dickson agent Stephen Bunday. Price guide $850,000-plus. Inspect: Saturday, July 30, 10.45am-11.15am. EER 3.0.