Sydney investor wins Jacana bidding war for townhouse

Sellers Robert King and Jinda Traynor sold their Jacana townhouse for $515,000 after a heated auction drew 11 registered bidders, including two from interstate.

When Robert King and Jinda Traynor decided to put their Jacana townhouse on the market, they hoped for a strong result, but didn’t expect 11 bidders and a final price of $515,000, $65,000 above the top of the guide.

The couple had lived at 3/5 Fraser Crt for several years, adding cooling, freshening interiors, and installing a pergola to turn the courtyard into what they called their “little sanctuary.”

When they finally found their dream home in Yarra Glen after three years of searching, it felt like the perfect time to sell.
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“It was simply timing,” Ms Traynor said.

“We found something suitable right at the start of spring, with interest rates tipped to come down and the market feeling positive.
“It just lined up perfectly.”

The townhouse drew more than 60 inspections over a four-week campaign, and on auction day the opening bid of $440,000 quickly surged past the $410,000-$450,000 guide.

The pergola created a private, all-weather courtyard retreat, a key selling point that helped push the Jacana townhouse price well above expectations.

Light-filled open plan living, dining, and kitchen spaces gave buyers a sense of scale rarely found in Jacana townhouses of this size.

The winning buyer was a Sydney investor who had never stepped foot inside the property, purchasing sight unseen after a WhatsApp video tour.

“We’re a little disappointed,” Ms Traynor said.
“There was a local woman who worked just around the corner and was very interested.

“It would have been nice to see it go to someone making it their home rather than an investment. But in the end, we got the best price possible.”

A versatile upstairs study nook added extra appeal for buyers working from home or seeking a quiet retreat separate from the main living zones.

The spacious kitchen flowed seamlessly into the living and dining areas, offering ample bench space and modern appliances for family living or entertaining.

Ray White Glenroy’s Sebastian Rello said the sale reflected a broader shift in Melbourne’s north, where interstate buyers are stepping in as many local investors sell up.

“Melbourne investors are over land tax, new tenancy laws, and constant legislative changes,” Mr Rello said.
“But for Sydney buyers, the value is obvious.

“Something similar in their city would be over a million dollars.”

The master bedroom boasted his-and-hers mirrored built-in robes, generous proportions, and ceiling fans for year-round comfort.

Mr Rello said two interstate bidders competed online — one from Adelaide and one from Sydney — with the underbidder being the local hospital worker.

He noted many buyers were keen to secure a property before the expected interest rate cut on Tuesday.

“If you like a property, buy it now,” he said.

“Don’t hesitate over a few thousand dollars, because in a year you could be paying 10 per cent more,” he said.

The main living area featured ducted heating and evaporative cooling, combining comfort with functionality for all seasons.

Sliding glass doors opened onto a leafy courtyard garden, blending indoor and outdoor living in the heart of Jacana.

The couple are now preparing to move to their larger Yarra Glen home, which comes with one big upgrade, a backyard for their dog.

“He’s never had one before,” Mr King said.

“He’ll finally have space to run around.”

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david.bonaddio@news.com.au

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