An 'ugly duckling' villa in Adelaide's College Park sparks buyer frenzy
A dilapidated three-bedroom villa on one of Adelaide's most prestigious streets has drawn a wave of interest from renovators, despite being in a state of disrepair. The property at 66 Harrow Road in College Park, described by its owners as the 'ugly duckling' of the street, sits on a 696-square-metre block in a tightly held pocket near elite schools and the city centre.
No price guide has been set for the circa-1915 villa, which is structurally sound but has had its kitchen gutted. Along the same street, four well-maintained properties, including two heritage homes, sold last year for between $2 million and $3.2 million each. Another heritage home on Harrow Road changed hands last month, though the sale price was not disclosed.
Why this villa is attracting so much attention
The property has been held by the same family for more than four decades. Vendors Gregory and Deana, who inherited the home over a year ago, started renovations with plans to make it their forever home. However, work and family commitments forced them to remain in New South Wales. Gregory told Real Estate Australia that the property, once fully renovated, would be worth around $5 million. 'That house deserves someone to come in and love it. What it deserves is a full restoration to take it back to its original beauty,' he said.
Heritage value and renovation potential
The villa retains original floorboards and open fireplaces, offering a blank canvas for the next owner. The couple had planned to add ensuites for the three bedrooms, a large open-plan living space at the rear, and a garage with an upper-level office or bedroom. The generous block also allows for a swimming pool. Deana noted that initial work, such as removing old carpets, had exposed the home's true potential. 'It's the ugly duckling of the street with lots of potential,' she said.
Market dynamics in College Park
Selling agent Hamish Mill from Williams Real Estate said heritage overlays prevent the home's demolition, adding to its appeal. 'Properties of this calibre are becoming increasingly rare, particularly in a blue-chip suburb like College Park where opportunities to secure an original villa on a substantial corner allotment are exceptionally limited,' he said. Offers close on August 20 unless sold prior.
The frenzy reflects broader trends in Adelaide's premium property market, where heritage homes in sought-after suburbs continue to command strong interest despite economic headwinds. For renovators, the villa represents a rare chance to add value in a tightly held area with strong capital growth potential.