Sydney always steals the limelight. So, this week we’re diving into the most expensive houses in Brisbane.
Often overlooked in favour of Sydney’s and Melbourne’s more cosmopolitan nature, Brisbane is now the rising star in luxury real estate. From the influx of uber-fancy residential towers like One Chevron in the neighbouring Gold Coast, to multi-storey mansions on the river’s edge, Brisbane is becoming increasingly popular amongst the affluent buyers.
From 2015, the Queensland capital began attracting those seeking a warmer climate and a more laid back lifestyle. Then more recently, the lockdowns and travel restrictions had locals seeing their homes in a new light. No longer bound by their distance to the workplace, they searched for a tree or sea-change, more living space and closer access to nature.
Moreover, according to a housing affordability report by ANZ and Corelogic, Brisbane offers more in terms of mortgage serviceability. The report estimated that around 41% of properties across Greater Brisbane would be cheaper to buy (and service the mortgage) than to rent. Compared to just 3.33% of properties in Melbourne and 2.1% in Sydney, Queensland is much more appealing.
But to avoid bogged down by the details, let’s go through the most expensive houses ever sold in Brisbane and the most expensive houses on the market right now.
Most expensive houses sold in Brisbane
Brisbane’s #1 most expensive house
31-33 Moray Street, New Farm
Selling price: $11.3 million
While this piece of Brisbane real estate isn’t a house just yet, it’ll be worth over $20 million upon completion. Talk about an expensive house!
In 2019, Jamie Pherous acquired the plot of land at 31-33 Moray Street, New Farm for $11.3 million. The block had previously belonged to Jane Gibson, the spouse of famous local architect, Robin Gibson, who had acquired it in 1985 for only $200,000.
Jane Gibson, the widow of celebrated Brisbane architect Robin Gibson, who acquired the site in 1986 for just $200,000.
The new owners have commissioned Tim Stewart Architects to design the new 4-storey, 6-bedroom build, which will feature a basement car parking, games room and gym that connects to the clifftop pool and pool deck.
Brisbane’s #2 most expensive house
154 Virginia Avenue, Hawthorne
Selling price: $15 million
Sold on 7 Feb 2022, this gorgeous riverfront estate in Hawthorne has a land size of 2,110 sqm and is complete with a tennis court, swimming pool and private beach and jetty, all of which look over the spectacular 27-metre river vista.
Originally owned by Brisbane Lord Mayor Clem Jones, the property was bought by Park Rd developer James Penny in 1985 and subsequently Peter Hawes, a doctor and championship athlete.
Brisbane’s #3 most expensive house
1 Leopard Street, Kangaroo Point
Selling price: $15 million
Early in 2021, another mega-mansion sold for the same price of $15 million—this sultry, sleek palatial residence in Kangaroo Point.
With six bedrooms and six bathrooms perched upon the clifftops of Kangaroo Point, this is truly a dream home. A private elevator takes you between the three floors of luxury living, complete with a soundproof cinema room, private spa and huge swimming pool, and wine cellar.
It was sold to Mr Morris, the CEO and MD of private wealth management group, Ord Minnett, and his wife, Louise, who were looking to downsize after three of their five children had moved out. The home had been on the market since 2019.
Its previous owners had paid $18.488 million for the property in 2017, making it the most expensive house sold in Brisbane that year.
Brisbane’s #4 most expensive house
14 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
Selling price: $13 million
Sitting on a tree-lined street boasting some of Brisbane’s finest real estate is this impeccable blue-chip home.
The house was constructed in the 1880s and was on the market for a mere three weeks before it was sold to a local developer and his family. The 4,664 sqm residence has six bedrooms, a tennis court, swimming pool and spa with a commercial grade kitchen.
Most expensive houses on sale in Brisbane
Now that we’ve covered the most expensive houses in Brisbane over the past few years, let’s see what’s on the market right now.
Cosy, modern family home
Price guide: $3 million
Warm, spacious with plenty of outdoor space, this 4-bedroom house is on sale on one of Brisbane’s most sought after locations.
We’re instantly welcomed by homey elements like polished timber floors, a cosy fireplace and ornate fretwork.
Families will love the multiple living areas and an open space plan that seamlessly blends the indoors with the leafy exterior.
Sleek new development
Price guide: $3.5 million
Set to complete within the next few months is this stylish, stunning 3-storey townhouse.
Linked to all floors via a private elevator, the Teneriffe home is already a winner in terms of location. Enjoy uninterrupted views over the Brisbane city skyline amongst sophisticated design.
For the avid entertainer, revel at the the rooftop pool, wine cellar, chef’s kitchen but also the exterior kitchen with built-in barbecue and pizza oven.
Five bedrooms including an oversized, presidential master suite will suit large families.
Resort-style sanctuary in the hills
Price guide: $3 million
While this spectacular house sits 30 minutes away from Brisbane city, we were quick to fall for its unique, natural features.
Considering its proximity to the capital, the home feels like a sanctuary. Privately enclosed by tropical manicured gardens (and a waterfall!), its 10,198 sqm of land offers plenty of space for even larger families.
On top of that, you’re just moments to neighbourhood conveniences like public transport, Pullenvale State School, Kenmore’s shops and dining, OLR and Kenmore High School.
Looking for your dream home?
Check out more Brisbane real estate when you set up your match profile on Soho.
And don’t forget to download the soho app. With the app, you can contact agents quicker, browse through your property matches and ultimately find your dream home even sooner.
We are finding you homes we think you’ll love, so don’t forget to shortlist or swipe left on our listings so we can send you others that better match what you’re looking for.
