Merewether home becomes the highest selling in Newcastle

BY JARROD MELMETH

A Merewether home has become the highest selling residential property ever in Newcastle.

The property known as "Barrymore" on Kilgour Avenue has sold for $8.7 million, after being sold just four years ago for $3.7 million in May 2017. 

The sale surpasses the previous record of $7.25 million for a property on John Parade, Merewether. 

The home is heritage listed and has five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a sperate garage building. It's also set on a 1698 square metre block and stands on a cliff with views of the Pacific Ocean and cityscape.

Selling Agent Mark Kentwell says its clear now that Newcastle is no longer a well kept secret.

"The last record threshold of $7 million took over 12 years to surpass. This record took under 12 months to surpass. The strong and diverse employment base, amazing lifestyle and property performance is proving Newcastle is gaining moment, especially since COVID has become a part of life," Mr Kentwell said.

Real Estate Chair says clear lockdown rules imminent

BY JARROD MELMETH

The Hunter Division Chairman of the NSW Real Estate Institute says clear rules about who can and can't attend open houses and auctions in the region will be known within days.

Local MP's and residents have been vocal about the ambiguity in the Public Health Orders after it was found Greater Sydney residents who are in lockdown were able to travel outside their zones to inspect homes and attend auctions.

Hunter Division Chairman of NSWREI Wayne Stewart says the institute would like to see a blanket ban on anyone who is in lockdown from attending any real estate activities.

"As far as we are concerned, the lockdown means people shouldn't be coming out of that area at all regardless of the circumstances.

"The Real Estate Institute is working hand in hand with government to get some clear instruction and we believe that may happen within days," Mr Stewart said.