Homes like this one at 71 Fisher Rd, Virginia, offer buyers affordable acreage close to a capital city. Picture: realestate.com.au
Darwin’s rural area has the country’s most affordable acreage living close to a capital city, a Top End real estate agent has said as the local property market heats up leading into the dry season.
Glenn Grantham, General Manager and Sales Director at Raine & Horne Darwin, said acreage homes could still be picked up for under seven figures within easy commuting distance of the NT’s capital.
“Areas such as Virginia, Humpty Doo and Noonamah are very popular with buyers as they all lie within 40 minutes of the Darwin CBD, so it’s possible to have a city job and a rural home life for under $1m,” he said.
“Try ticking off this work-life balance quinella for such an affordable price in other major capital cities around the country.
“It just won’t happen.”
Glenn Grantham, General Manager and Sales Director at Raine & Horne Darwin. Picture: Keri Megelus
According to the latest PropTrack data, Herbert was the most affordable rural market close to Darwin, with a median house price of $600,000.
This was followed by Humpty Doo, with a median house price of $615,000, then Virginia ($630,000), Berry Springs ($675,000), Howard Springs ($730,000) and Girraween ($890,000).
The suburban acreage suburb of Marlow Lagoon had a median house price of $907,000.
Mr Grantham said while the spotlight was often on Darwin’s vibrant CBD apartment market and popular northern coastal suburbs, such as Nightcliff, Stuart Park and Fannie Bay, the rural area was a gem not to be overlooked.
“The timing is especially favourable for rural property sellers, with the traditional dry season market in full swing,” he said.
“At Raine & Horne Darwin, we have noted a significant market uptick, selling as many properties in the second week of May as we did in the entire month of May 2023.”
Inside the home at 71 Fisher Rd, Virginia. Picture: realestate.com.au
Mr Grantham said 71 Fisher Rd, Virginia, for sale for offers over $1m, highlighted the real estate on offer in the Darwin rural area.
“This property is already attracting significant attention as it’s perfect for those venturing into a rural lifestyle for the first time,” he said.
“It offers a fully renovated three-bedroom family home featuring a modern and stylish second dwelling, along with a massive shed that needs no work.
“We believe it will appeal to multi-generational families with either a grandparent or a teenager seeking his or her own private digs or families where mum and dad have to work from home at times.”
Mr Grantham said the renovated granny flat could generate a rental income of $450 per week while the 90sq m shed came with bathroom, office, lockable storage and mezzanine.
“This property ticks many boxes for those executives or small business owners who need a separate space away from the family for work requirements,” he said.