Acreage Makes Dreams Come True

Sun Herald

Sunday August 27, 2006

BY MICHELLE SINGER PROPERTY WRITER

DREAMS of the humble acreage continue to lure buyers to the north-west corners of Sydney as home hunters seek out lifestyle properties.

Located within an hour's drive of the CBD, Glenorie is a preferred area for its village atmosphere, mountain views and open spaces.

On the road to Wisemans Ferry, a newly listed property, on Post Office Road, is more unusual than most for its size and presentation.

Set on a rarely found 8000 square metres, two acres in the old measures, compared with the standard 20,000 square metres or "five-acre" blocks, the property was part of the first sub-division owned by the Ramm family.

Century 21 Prime Property Dural principal Gaye Wheatley said the Ramm brothers, pioneers of the Glenorie and Maroota area, originally owned 35 hectares.

While much of the land was sub-divided into the standard sized blocks, some was retained for the construction of the Glenorie village. The leftover parcel made up the Post Office Road property.

The original two-bedroom weatherboard cottage has been significantly renovated, but it's trademark Federation frontage has been retained.

"The current owners have renovated the original farm cottage in keeping with the character of the home," she said.

"The original two bedrooms and the veranda at the front of the house have been preserved while the rest of the house has been renovated for today's living."

The fully fenced property has four bedrooms, three bathrooms and parking for two cars. French doors in the country-style kitchen open to the pool, outdoor entertainment deck and views of the mountains.

Ms Wheatley said the property, which features a one-bedroom studio barn with a loft for guests, is appealing because of its size and location.

The property is being sold by expressions of interest with a price of more than $1.1 million expected.

"Acreages are pretty exciting in as much as you don't know what you are going to come across, they are not just apples and apples," she said.

"It's a much sought-after two-acre parcel. You can have the rural lifestyle but you can still walk to the shops.

"It's very rare to find a two-acre parcel so close to the township."

The agent said the property would suit somebody contemplating opening a B&B or someone with an extended family or it would suit someone who wants a pony or two.