Spring auctions going strong in the east

The impending Federal election hasn’t dampened the spirits of inner-city home buyers.
Last Saturday a 1920s two-bedroom attached cottage at 144 Barcom Ave, Darlinghurst, sold almost a quarter of a million dollars over reserve, for $1,153,500.
Auctioneer David Imrie of McGrath said the property attracted almost 200 buyers during its three-week marketing campaign. On auction day 18 bidders competed to own the home.
“The buyers represented the complete demography of the area,” Imrie said.
“About 50 percent were from the gay and lesbian community, and the rest were a mix of young city professionals, empty-nesters looking for a convenient and low-maintenance lifestyle, and a couple of speculative investors.”
A week earlier Imrie auctioned a three-bedroom strata townhouse at 10 Davies St, Surry Hills, which sold about $100,000 over reserve.
Imrie has been selling homes in the inner east for the last decade and works as part of a team of agents that also includes Jamie Witchard and Connie Robilliard.
All three are Darlinghurst residents with an innate understanding of the area and the people who want to, or already live in, the suburbs.
“Two gay guys and a married mum who’s raised her kids in a Darlinghurst terrace – we are the typical locals,” he said.
Robilliard, who managed the Barcom Ave and Davies St sales, said she loves the area and the people.
“The energy, openness and mix of people in the area make what’s sometimes a challenging business a lot of fun,” she said.
“David, Jamie and I have made so many friends among our clients. We always seem to click.”
As for the coming months and whether the record prices will continue, Robilliard is optimistic.
“Good homes in good streets, well presented and well marketed, will always attract keen buyers regardless of who’s in government,” she said.
The team is currently offering local homes and apartments from $400,000 to $6 million.
Contact McGrath on 9386 3378 or visit www.mcgrath.com.au.