Federation manor in Mosman, split into two homes, gives families options

The prospect of moving in with the in-laws becomes a whole lot more appealing with a visit to this grand Federation property set on a corner block not far from the southern end of the Mosman shopping village.

Divided into two residences, each with its own strata title, the property presents buyers with the option of making offers on one or both homes. Take both and play with the possibilities: reconfigure to create your own mansion; use it as a home plus income; enjoy the current set-up of two inter-connecting homes.

Both homes are move-in-and-enjoy propositions, but where No. 42 boasts stylish casual living spaces, No. 44 would benefit from minor cosmetic improvements.

There are plenty of character features to admire. Of particular note are the soaring, pressed-metal ceilings, stained-glass windows, deep window seats and marble fireplaces. There are also picture rails, polished timber floors, deep skirtings and ceiling roses.

Each residence has separate formal living and dining rooms, one of each pair opening onto the front verandah. These rooms are elegant and well-proportioned and beautifully appointed for hosting guests.

The generous casual living spaces of No. 42 include a Corian island kitchen with stainless steel Smeg appliances, a gas cooktop and breakfast bar seating. Bifolds open the family room onto the back garden. A large laundry doubles as a store room.

In No. 44 the casual living spaces are more compact, the kitchen with laminate benchtops.

Upstairs you’ll find four bedrooms and one large family bathroom with twin vanity apiece. Number 42 boasts an additional en suite bathroom. Sunshine streams into the north-facing bedrooms, two of which open onto balconies with views over the bay towards Manly. Many of the bedrooms have some form of built-in storage and all of them have ample room for freestanding storage cupboards.

The back garden features a paved terrace and raised lawn surrounded by mature hedging and greenery offering plenty of privacy.

There is an older style tandem garage on the title of No. 42 and off-street parking for two cars on title for No. 44.

The property is within walking distance of shops and cafes, Rawson Park and the walking trails of Sydney Harbour National Park. City buses are just metres from the front door.

The owner says: “Quite simply, we love the location. The house has authentic Federation charm, close to the Buena Vista Hotel and the shops.”

Room for improvement: Consider upgrading the casual living space/kitchen in No. 44.

42-44 Middle Head Road, Mosman
Guide: $6m – $6.5m
8 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 4 car spaces
Built 1900, renovated 2012
Land 1105 square metres
Inspect Sat and Thu, 1pm-1.30pm
Auction June 30
​Agent Belle Property Mosman, 0416 090 191
See more at: domain.com.au/2012835190

Need to know: 
42 last traded for $3 million in 2006
44 last traded for $2 million in 2006
Highest recorded house price in Mosman (past 12 months)
$16 million for 17 Stanley Avenue in September, 2015
Median price for houses $3 million

Recent sales: 
$6.1 million for 49a Parriwi Road in December, 2015
$6.3 million for 52 Bay Street in September, 2015
$6.5 million for 18 Burrawong Avenue in October, 2015
Source: Domain Group

Surrounding area:
“Mosman’s uniqueness lies in its proximity to the city while being so close to so much natural beauty,” says Belle Property Mosman agent Tim Foote. “You’ve got Chinamans and Balmoral Beach and four national parks on your doorstep. Even on a global scale that’s pretty special.”
Throw in harbour views, boutique shopping, elite schools and a 20-minute ferry ride to the CBD and it’s little wonder Mosman house prices continue to rise: they’re up 11.1 per cent over the 12 months to March this year.