What $1.5m buys in Warrnambool with ocean views

News.com.au

12 hours ago

A sweeping rural-meets-ocean view and a grand glass staircase have made Warrnambool's 'big white house on the hill' one of the region's most talked-about homes.
Built by respected local builder Paul Butters, the four-bedroom home at 23 Hyland St combines bold architecture, luxe finishes and knockout views, all just a few blocks from the CBD.
Harris & Wood's Josh Bermingham said he's had buyers from out of the area ask if the home was really in Warrnambool.
'It's close enough to walk into town, but elevated enough to enjoy panoramic views from paddocks to the ocean,' Mr Bermingham said.
'You simply don't expect that combination here, especially at this price.'
Listed with a $1.45m-$1.55m price hopes, the near-new home delivers a level of design and quality Mr Bermingham said would cost millions more in towns like Torquay, Ocean Grove or Lorne.
'If you lifted this house and placed it in one of those towns, you'd easily be adding another zero to the asking price,' he said.
Spread across two levels, the home is centred around a soaring entry void with a statement glass and timber staircase.
Upstairs, a wall of windows floods the living and dining zone with natural light, anchored by a floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace.
The kitchen finished with sleek gold tapware, quality appliances and a walk-in butler's pantry connects seamlessly to an elevated deck with rural outlooks and glimpses of the ocean.
The main suite includes a private balcony, walk-in robe and large ensuite with warm, layered textures.
A second bedroom and powder room complete the upper level.
Downstairs, two further bedrooms, a family bathroom, second living zone and full laundry offer flexibility for growing families or guests.
Stacker doors open to an undercover alfresco and sun-drenched deck overlooking a landscaped firepit zone, designed for year-round entertaining.
There's also a large garage and workshop under the home, plus side access for additional vehicles or trailers.
Mr Bermingham said other inclusions in the home such as double-glazed windows, a solar system, ducted reverse-cycle heating and cooling, electric blinds and lift-ready design, make the home energy-efficient and futureproof.
'The layout, quality and comfort make it a perfect long-term home,' he said.
The Harris & Wood agent said sellers Hayley and her partner Brad built the home as a personal project.
Though originally planned as a forever home, the pair are now ready for their next creative chapter.
'They've built and sold a few times and just love the process,' Mr Bermingham said.
'Now that this one's finished, they're excited to take on the next project.'
He said interest had come from both locals and Melbourne buyers, with the home's design, location and liveability striking a chord.
'There's been a really strong response,' he said.
'People are captivated by the quality, and once they step inside, they get it.'
'We actually struggled to find comparables because homes like this are built to be lived in, not sold. If this comes back on the market in under 10 years, I'll be shocked.'