One of Brisbane’s grandest historic homes has hit the market. ‘Franklin Villa’ in Highgate Hill is a magnificent 12-bedroom, nine-bathroom mansion on a 1,244 square metre block, commanding stunning north-easterly views of Brisbane City.
Franklin Villa was built circa 1890, as a residence and entertaining quarters for high ranking government officials. Today it serves as both an upmarket, five-suite guesthouse and a family home to the property’s vendors, Nicholas and Bernadette Proctor.
“It’s like living in a resort,” Mr Proctor said of the mansion.
“There’s a 20-metre lap pool with a barbeque and entertainment area; huge verandahs on three levels with beautiful views over the city; and a huge block of land with gardens to relax in.”
Located in the quiet inner-city suburb of Highgate Hill, the villa is just a five-minute walk from the hub of West End, 15 minutes from South Bank and easily accessible to the CBD.
“You hear absolutely no city noise here. You could be in a rural area, yet you enjoy unbelievable views of the CBD, which is just a stone’s throw away,” Mr Proctor added.
Nicholas and Bernadette both work separate, full-time careers, operating Franklin Villa as a side project. Yet the guesthouse generates strong returns and financial growth every year, despite, in Mr Proctor’s own words, “operating at about 60 percent of its amazing potential.”
Selling agent, Julian Gardner of Ray White North Quay, said the property presents multiple business opportunities.
“Franklin Villa is so versatile - it could be run as a boutique guesthouse; as a venue for weddings, parties and corporate events; or as a regular venue for High Teas. There are development opportunities down the back of the block. You could even turn it into a spectacular restaurant, with council approval,” Mr Gardner said.
“Or it could simply be bought as a magnificent residence for a large family to enjoy,” he said, adding that Highgate Hill has seen a 34 percent capital growth in the past five years.
“With its grand design and size, significant history and incredible views, there is nothing like this property anywhere near the city.”
Franklin Villa boasts beautifully restored colonial features such as a rustic kitchen built from original sleepers from the old Rockhampton Railway Station, claw foot bathtubs, soaring leadlight windows and antique fittings; as well as 14-foot ceilings, a snooker room, vestibule, huge wrap-around verandahs and off-street parking for up to six cars.
The mansion is also just one block from Brisbane State School, the best public school in the State and the only GPS state school – making this property perfect for families.
Given the unique nature of the property, Mr Gardner said it is difficult to appraise the price expectations, but that this spectacular and one-of-a-kind property really is a must see.
An auction will be held on site on Saturday, 18 June 2016.
For more information and a virtual tour, visit the guesthouse website - www.franklinvilla.com.au or contact Julian Gardner at Ray White North Quay: 0419 196 412 | julian.gardner@raywhite.com
