Feels like home ... Peel Street gem

John Fagan from Raine and Horne Real Estate believes the Federation-era residence will attract keen bidding when it goes under the hammer on site on Saturday, November 29.

While the Slades have many treasured memories of their time at 185 Peel Street, they  say it is time to move on and plan to settle down in their retirement years in new digs on the south coast. 

“We’ve just loved living here,” Helen said.

“We really do hope someone will take on the home and love it as much as we do. There has been a great deal of work put into making the garden what it is today. 

"When you come home on a hot day it’s much cooler both inside and outside because of all the greenery and trees.”

Mrs Slade said they commissioned architect Henry Bialowas to design extensions at the rear of the home when they purchased, with the work carried out by local builder Steve Rigney. 

“We spent most of our time in the open plan living area which opens out onto the back garden,” she said. “But there is also plenty of room to entertain, although we don’t do much of that these days.”

The residence, called Plum Cottage because of the original plantings in the backyard, features three bedrooms, two bathrooms and room for a vehicle thanks to side access.

Mr Fagan said this is an early 1900s beauty which has an abundance of character, with period charm and modern comforts.

“It is set in a spectacular private garden which is a tribute to the owners,” he said. “There are three large bedrooms, an ensuite off the main bedroom, formal lounge and dining rooms plus a stunningly extended family and kitchen area with floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that open up to the sundrenched garden and yard.

“There is also an opportunity to subdivide the property, which means it’s ideal for a developer looking to value-add to the original purchase. 

“Another selling point is the close location to the central business district and, as we say in the industry, this home is all about location, location, location.” 

Mr Fagan said that after two open houses at 185 Peel Street, 17 different parties had been through the property.

“This is a real indication that it is something special. We expect bidding in the range of $550,000 to $650,000.”