When it comes to property, there are several types of homes that are almost always winners among buyers.
In Brisbane (and across the rest of the Sunshine State), the stunning old Queenslanders that line many of the city’s streets are in hot demand – especially those that sport stunning renovations.
One was even trucked down to the set of The Block 2022 for a once-in-a-lifetime renovation.
![queenslander facade](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 800 450"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Recently sold, 77 Jamieson Street, Bulimba, is an example of classic Queenslander-style architecture. Picture: realestate.com.au
To learn more about the quintessential Queensland home, we reached out to Tony O’Doherty, Principal and Licensed Real Estate Agent at Belle Property in Bulimba.
Mr O’Doherty is something of an expert on the area, having sold numerous properties in the region and recently taking out Queensland’s Agent of the Year award at the Annual REA Excellence Awards.
“It means the world to me because I am so driven by performance,” said Mr O’Doherty. “I am a very tough marker on myself and to compete against 12-14,000 agents and to come out on top means the world to me.”
What is a Queenslander?
True to their name, Queenslanders originated in Queensland in the 1800s and were built all the way until the end of WWII. Many are still standing today and are hugely popular among buyers.
With their elevated position and timber construction, Queenslanders are instantly recognizable. But while you may be able to spot one quite easily, you may not be aware of the other hallmarks that allow a home to fall into the Queenslander category or why they’re built the way they are.
Queenslanders are raised off the ground to allow air to flow beneath the home, offering respite from the state’s tropical temperatures.
The added benefit of being elevated is that the home is protected from flooding and other extreme weather events.
Currently listed, 60 Real Avenue, Norman Park, is open for offers up until November 3 at 3pm. Picture: realestate.com.au
Queenslanders also tend to have corrugated iron roofs, which, combined with their timber construction, makes them even better suited to Queensland’s tropical climate and storms.
They’re also known for their expansive verandahs and decorative features, many of which have been lovingly restored in recent years.
Queenslanders around Brisbane
The Queenslanders of today retain many of the traditional features they’re known for but have been updated to suit modern lifestyles.
Mr O’Doherty points to a couple of his listings that marry the original charm of a Queenslander with the look and feel of architecturally designed contemporary homes.
Open to offers over $1.7m, 7 Karthina Street, Bulimba, is a stylish example of the classic style. Picture: realestate.com.au
The home at 7 Karthina Street, Bulimba sits on 810sq m north-facing parcel of land and its double-gabled character residence has kept all the features that make it a classic while still allowing for new owners the chance to update it to their personal tastes.
An example of a fully renovated Queenslander with all the luxury finishes is the home at 22 Power Street, Norman Park.
With no expense spared it doesn't lack for wow factor: the original 1930s Queenslander has been impressively renovated with a Palm Springs aesthetic, complete with an eye-catching stone feature wall, a 9m fireplace and a beautiful backyard pool.
When classic Queensland meets Palm Springs: 7 Karthina Street, Bulimba sold for $3.1m in July. Picture: realestate.com.au
Why do buyers love them?
So, what is it about Queenslanders that have buyers lusting after them? Mr O’Doherty believes it’s the historical aspect.
“People love the 100-year-old homes,” he said. “I buy and sell a lot myself and I think the only way I see myself staying in a home long-term is if it’s an older home.
"So, character, charm, and the fact that you are not the first person to enjoy them – families have gone before you and these homes have served them well.”
Classic charm meets modern living, 158 Barton Road, Hawthorne, is open for offers until November 3. Picture: realestate.com.au
But he also says the functionality of renovated Queenslanders – with their abundant living space, versatility in terms of what the ground floor can be used for and high-quality finishes – makes them popular, too.
“The most important thing with any home in my experience is functionality – floorplan is the biggest factor followed by finishes,” said Mr O’Doherty. “If you have a home that hits the target market and is finished well, it is the perfect storm.”
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