Highett Townhouse sells $85k above reserve

This rear-lot Highett townhouse sold for $1.185m at a competitive auction, with buyers captivated by its warmth, light and designer flair.

A first-time auction bidder has snapped up a stunning Highett townhouse for $1.185m in a competitive winter auction that saw four parties vie for the keys and left the vendor reflecting on four years of heartfelt memories.

The rear-lot residence at 3/5 Noyes St sold under the hammer through Ray White The Bayside Group, with six registered bidders and 80 spectators attending what became an unexpectedly intimate indoor auction due to Melbourne’s signature winter chill.

Buyer Rachel Ryan, who had been searching for the right home for three months, said the warm, light-filled interiors won her over instantly.

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“I am so excited, we’re just having some champagne to celebrate,” Ms Ryan said.

“This was the first time I’ve ever bid at an auction and it was fun!

“I’ll be moving in with my 22-year-old daughter and we just knew this was the one.”

Bathed in natural light, the open-plan living zone features soaring ceilings, a modern staircase and a seamless connection to the home’s outdoor entertaining area.

The revamped courtyard includes bamboo-lined fencing, a built-in barbecue and space for firepit seating — perfect for relaxed entertaining year-round.

Ray White Bayside director and auctioneer Kevin Chokshi said bidding opened in the high $900,000s and quickly escalated, with the home hitting reserve at $1.1m before landing at $1.185m.

“The vibe was great, we had young couples, downsizers and upsizers all in the mix,” Mr Chokshi said.

“Being tucked away at the rear of the block gave it real privacy, and the finishes, the terrazzo, the pink powder room, the outdoor flow, they all helped it shine.”

Buyer Rachel Ryan (centre), who won the auction on her very first bid, celebrates with her father John and Sam.

The sleek kitchen includes terrazzo stone finishes, Miele and Electrolux appliances, and a five-burner cooktop, a standout space for home chefs.

Seller Ryan Lyons, who purchased the home with his partner Jessie Ferguson four years ago, said they almost missed out, having dismissed the property online before visiting in person.

“When we walked through it, we felt the warmth, the light, it just clicked. The layout had a really beautiful energy,” Mr Lyons said.

Since moving in, the couple renovated the upstairs bathroom, transformed the outdoor entertaining area, and added the now-iconic pink powder room.

Soft textures, ambient light and a crisp palette give the main living space a calming, coastal feel just minutes from the bay.

“We’ve had birthdays out there, barbecues, casual dinners with friends, it’s been a really special space for us,” he said.

Mr Lyons said the home held particular significance as the place where their daughter took her first steps and made her earliest memories.

“It’s the first place our daughter ever lived. Watching her grow up here, playing in the courtyard, having friends over, those are the moments that stay with you,” he said.

Though they’re upsizing to accommodate a growing family, the seller said leaving the neighbourhood was the hardest part.

Recently renovated, the upstairs bathroom features a freestanding tub, rainfall shower and skylight, bringing spa-style luxury to everyday living.

All three bedrooms offer built-in storage, privacy and versatility, ideal for families, professionals or downsizers seeking low-maintenance living.

“We absolutely love the area. We even tried to buy again on the same street, but there was nothing for sale,” Mr Lyons said.

Mr Chokshi said the strong result highlights surging demand for turnkey, low-maintenance homes in bayside pockets like Highett.

“Buyers don’t want a project, they want lifestyle,” he said.

“There’s way more energy in the market than usual for June. Some agents are off on holidays, and they’re missing out.

“I’ve listed three new properties this week alone. Sellers are feeling confident, and buyers are ready to strike.”

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david.bonaddio@news.com.au

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