THE SUN-CATCHER
This modernised Remuera property is in a prime position in one of Auckland’s most desirable streets, finds LOUISE RICHARDSON
The global pandemic has led many New Zealanders to change their plans when it comes to real estate — including Diana Gurshin and her family.
“Before it happened, our children were off to university and we were going to be downsizing, but our circumstances are different now, and we’re going to need a bigger property for us all,” she says.
As a result, 189 Victoria Ave, on its prime corner site with an elevated outlook and easy-care garden on 484sq m, plus a double garage, is now on the market, and attracting considerable interest.
The current owners have undertaken a renovation and modernisation job in the threebedroom home, which had previously been in the same hands for 27 years.
“We’ve done a lot to improve it in several years here and there’s still scope to make it even better,” says Diana.
She says that one of the home’s biggest attractions is the size of the general living areas. The brand-new kitchen is crisp and neat with plenty of bench and cupboard space and this segues into the family room, which in turn opens to a big deck outside.
In the opposite direction are the separate dining room and a huge, elegant formal lounge, with an open fireplace. It leads, through French doors, to another sunny deck. A very pleasant, neutral colour scheme seamlessly blends all of these rooms together beautifully, and there’s loads of light through big picture windows, and skylights in the hallway.
Also, at this end of the house, is a small home office with a pleasant garden outlook.
Across the hallway the master suite has a large bedroom, very generous walkin wardrobe and a neat and tidy en suite.
Diana says the family bathroom didn’t need any major work done, and the two further bedrooms are a good size with room for desks and toys, if a family is in residence.
Michael Boulgaris of Boulgaris Realty says that this is a versatile property and it’s perfect for a young family, especially since it’s zoned for Victoria Avenue Primary School, Remuera Intermediate, Auckland Grammar School and Epsom Girls Grammar, plus handy to all the private schools.
He says the house is also a good prospect for an older, empty-nest couple, maybe retirees, who are ready to get out of their huge family home, but don’t quite feel ready for an apartment. “It makes sense economically too, because this house is 240sq m and priced under $3m in a $5m street, while an equivalent luxury apartment at $20,000 to $30,000 per square metre could cost more than $6m.”
He says that despite being on a corner in a relatively busy road, 189 Victoria Ave has the advantage of perfect privacy and the shops in Remuera Rd are nearby, as is access to Newmarket, Parnell, the CBD, and a host of attractions and activities.
Sale: Price by negotiation
Contact: Michael Boulgaris, Boulgaris Realty, 021 366 366; Kurt Bassett, 021 208 0246