Sprawling Forrest property sells for more than $8 million

A bird’s eye view of 1 Baudin Street, Forrest – “an oasis of refinement”. Photos: Belle Property.

A palatial property in the blue-ribbon inner south has reportedly sold for more than $8 million, falling short of an ACT record but smashing the suburb mark for Forrest.

The 2624 sqm estate at 1 Baudin Street offers 529 square metres of living space.

It boasts six bedrooms, six bathrooms, an eight-car garage and stunning outdoor entertainment area, and an 11.5-metre heated pool.

The sale on 20 September achieved the second-highest sale price for a Canberra residential property, surpassing the $8 million paid for 25 Mugga Way, Red Hill, in 2020.

The ACT house price record still stands at $9 million, set in October last year for 82 Empire Circuit in Deakin.

The previous record for Forrest was $6.45 million, set in 2018 for 4 Ord Street.

Marketing for the Forrest property called it an “exceptional property, meticulously crafted by its builder-owner” that “stands as an oasis of refinement, embraced by lush, estate-like gardens”.

The heart of the home is the kitchen.

A living space designed for relaxation.

A fireside retreat for a fine whisky.

Marble opulance for the master ensuite.

The outdoor entertaining area by the pool.

This garage can hold eight cars.

Documents show the owner is Dino Caruso of Meridian Homes (ACT), who built the property in 2019.

Highlights include an expansive kitchen with a four-metre Caesarstone-topped waterfall island, butler’s pantry, and integrated appliances; a whiskey room complete with fireplace; games room; and a massive master suite opening onto the pool terrace with a marble ensuite.

The lower level includes the eight-car basement, service rooms, and cellar space on the lower level, while upstairs, the gated extra large double garage houses an office space at the rear.

There is also a pavilion studio with a sixth bedroom and ensuite.

Belle Property agent Alexander Anlezark said it took just six days for the property to sell to a local family by private negotiation.

Mr Anlezark said the fact it was a new property with a large land holding, as well as the car accommodation and the level of inclusions, made it an attractive proposition to potential buyers.

“There was good interest there throughout the campaign but just one party towards the end,” he said.

Mr Anlezark said the result showed there was good demand for turnkey homes like that at the upper end of the Canberra market.

He would not confirm the sale price.