7 May 2021

A hallowed home to call your own in Harden-Murrumburrah

| Lottie Twyford
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The Convent

The Convent is jaw-dropping from the moment you spot it, right until you’re inside. Photo: Ray White.

If you’ve ever fancied yourself as Lord or Lady of a modern manor, then this convent-turned country escape is most definitely for you.

Nestled in the quaint rural town of Harden-Murrumburrah, adjacent to the Canberra region and the Riverina, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as soon as you cast your eyes on The Convent at Vernon Street.

Whether it’s the chapel that’s been converted to a bedroom, the manicured lawns or the wraparound driveway that gets to you first of all, you might have to blink twice before you believe that this glamorous and graceful historic home could be yours to own.

Thanks to exquisite restoration and modern renovations, the residence has remained one of the area’s most distinguished homes for over a century.

According to Ray White real estate agent George Southwell, homes like these are rare finds in today’s market.

“The Old Convent is steeped in history and is truly a life-changing purchase for the new owners. Given its charm and character, many more years can be enjoyed at this property. While most historic homes require a lot of work and maintenance, this one doesn’t with a very simple yet desirable garden and lawns.

“It’s a property that marries modern renovation and discerning style with grand historical glamour and grace,” he said.

The property itself is a sprawling triple bricked masterpiece set across over 4000 square metres. It boasts an impressive 21 renovated rooms, of which nine are bedrooms.

The home has vast Victorian proportions and traditional detailing throughout. Recent additions include central wood-fired hydronic heating and radiators and reverse-cycle air conditioning.

Upon entry, you’ll be greeted by several opulent reception rooms sitting under 16-foot cedar ceilings.

Walkthrough to a large kitchen that makes country living convenient with a traditional separate scullery.

An impressive dining room offers views across the productive gardens and a decorative tin ceiling.

George said this is the kind of property that allows for occupants to really hole up in luxury.

“A stately study and office making makes working from home a breeze.

“Relaxation is most definitely a priority for any future owner, whether that’s in your home theatre with projection and surround sound or entertaining family and friends on a large timber deck overlooking established fruit trees,” he said.

Entertainment spaces are at one end of the house; meanwhile, children can play in living rooms on the other side of the property or out in the garden.

The master bedroom is also secluded and boasts a walk-in-robe and ensuite.

Some of the property’s three bathrooms have been recently renovated.

They say location is everything, and this property has it in spades.

Next door to the local Catholic primary school, it’s set back from the street, on almost an acre of manageable, landscaped lawns and gardens. It also has access to town water as well as a gigantic underground water tank.

It’s three hours to Sydney and 90 minutes to Canberra. This rare offering could become a bed and breakfast, lifestyle business, relaxation retreat or home.

Trains also run twice a day to Sydney and Melbourne.

“The Convent is a short walk to lovely local cafes, a popular pub, and a 25-minute drive to historic townships of Young, the cherry capital of Australia; Cootamundra, the birthplace of Sir Donald Bradman; and the village of Jugiong on the banks of the mighty Murrumbidgee River, with its hatted restaurant and bakery and boutique shops,” explains George.

“Being so close to the heart of the town means you can truly become part of the local community, something so many city dwellers are looking for.

“Harden-Murrumburrah is taking off, and with a price guide of $925,000, this is very affordable for what is on offer,” George said.

The Convent goes to auction later this month.

View the stunning Convent and all the other hot listings on Zango.

To arrange an inspection, call George Southwell 0429 838 345.

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