Bidding battle sees property price soar

A WHITTINGTON house has sold at almost 20 per cent above its reserve price at auction.

Agent Paul Bell, of Paul Bell Real Estate, had been quoting a price range of $150-165,000 for 13 Explorer Ct during the sales period leading up to Saturday’s auction.

But with three very keen bidders, the house was sold for an “awesome” figure of $193,000.

“We were quoting such a low figure because it really does need a new kitchen, new bathroom, blinds, carpets — pretty much a total renovation,’’ Mr Bell said.

“Even in my wildest dreams, I couldn’t have imagined such a result.”

An opening bid of $150,000 was quickly followed by four more bids which had the price at $165,000.

Those two bidders took the house to $183,000 when one dropped out and was replaced by a third contender who then went on to become the successful bidder.

“That party was from Melbourne — investors,” Mr Bell said.

“The lady has a business down here and she wanted a place for her workers to stay.”