Case study: Braidwood building for sale but community convinces Hughie to stay

Hughie Krijnen and his wife moved to Braidwood 22 years ago and built one of the town’s most prominent buildings.

Occupying a corner position on Braidwood’s main street, the property encompasses a licensed cafe with a commercial kitchen and seating for 60 guests, a main two-bedroom residence with a loft, a spacious self-contained studio and Clyde Cottage – a well-known one-bedroom self-contained holiday letting.

Hughie says he loves the urban/rural lifestyle that Braidwood offers. Living in the centre of town means everything is within walking distance, yet it offers views across the countryside.

A 40-minute drive to the coast is also one of the perks.

Hughie is selling the substantial property, but he plans to stay in Braidwood.

“It’s a community here and I feel like I’m part of it,” Hughie says.

“It would be hard to say goodbye to that.”

Number 183 Wallace Street is for sale through Luton Properties Manuka agent Kelly Allen (0466 632 696). Price: $1.2 million to $1.3 million.