Key influences in family home purchases in the Canberra market

 As a fresh school year gets under way, many families are still settling into new homes, but that doesn’t mean demand for detached dwellings has reduced.

Those who haven’t yet found their dream residence close to popular schools are still competing for limited supply.

Samantha Morrissey of Luton Properties Gungahlin says buyers have particular home profiles in mind and are prepared to be competitive.

“Homes on larger blocks are definitely at the top of the list and that puts many of Gungahlin’s longer-established suburbs in the spotlight,” she says.

“A modern, spacious, well-appointed kitchen that overlooks the outdoor area is also a must.”

Morrissey says the price point for properties that meet those requirements usually starts about $800,000.

“At that level, you can reasonably be assured the home will deliver the necessary bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas and required garage space,” she says.

“And, as importantly, be close to schools and shopping options.”

Tim Russell of LJ Hooker Kaleen says one of the key influences in family home purchases is proximity to support networks.

“People tend to want to be close to extended family when they have small children, particularly when parents are likely to be working,” he says.

“Having the grandparents or other relatives nearby can make all the difference.”

Russell says another drawcard for families are dwellings where most of the work has been done – inside and out.

“Most want to get on living and enjoying the new home without the need to take on renovation or other improvement projects,” he says.

FAMILY FIRST

• Location. Family living begins with a location that offers the potential for enrolment into the preferred school option. Check the catchment areas of local schools to determine eligibility of the suburb under consideration.
• Space. Families need a home that allows each member to have their own space, but the property should also include communal rooms that bring people together – like a welcoming kitchen and family area.
• Outdoors. A seamless connection to the outdoors offers families an extension of the living area into the garden. A well-designed al fresco area might be divided into zones for cooking, dining, living and playing.

REID

40 CORANDERRK STREET

PRICE GUIDE: $1.7 million + 

4 bed, 2 bath, 2 parking

HARRISON

32 ALANVALE STREET

PRICE GUIDE: $1 million + 

6 bed, 3 bath, 2 parking

FRANKLIN (also pictured as top main image)

51 HENRY KENDALL STREET

PRICE GUIDE: $1.1 million + 

5 bed, 4 bath, 4 parking