PHOTO: 26 Boatshed, McCrae VIC 3938
Laura Koefoed, a news reporter, revealed on January 18, 2024, at 8:14 pm NZDT, that a renowned beach shed in Australia is anticipated to be traded for nearly half a million dollars by the end of January. This comes after the property was listed for sale for the first time in over 50 years.
BOATSHED FOR SALE: Real estate agent is expecting a crowded auction room
Boatshed 26, located on the “exclusive” McCrae beach strip in Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula, has its license on the market with a guide price ranging from $430,000 to $470,000—surpassing the median sale price for one-bedroom units in Melbourne by over $60,000.
The current owners of the shed are the family of Matthew Owies, a forward for the Carlton Football Club, who inherited it. They recently shared with Realestate.com.au that, due to their age and decreased usage, they have made the challenging decision to sell the property.
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The beach shed, featuring approximately 18.55sqm of internal space and a 4.86sqm deck, is one of only 1300 available on the sought-after Mornington Peninsula. Classified as a “non-commercial and non-residential” structure, it is primarily used for purposes such as equipment storage, changing facilities, and shade and shelter.
It’s important to note that when purchasing a beach box, the buyer acquires a license rather than ownership of the land, according to the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.
Despite restrictions on living or staying in these sheds and the absence of amenities like running water, sewerage, or electricity in many of them, the beach boxes are considered by many as a prestigious “status symbol” worthy of the investment.
Melbourne’s beach boxes, labeled as ‘rare’ heritage structures, are highly coveted due to their scarcity and heritage status. Tourists from far and wide visit to photograph them, some even choosing them as backdrops for their weddings. People are willing to pay a substantial amount to own one of these coveted beach boxes.
In response to the advertisement, an Australian expressed, “Best investment. Beach boxes are scarce & in demand. Family friends own one in Rye, people are always trying to buy it.” Another individual commented on their rarity, stating, “They tend to be owned by rich families, they’re rare as hens’ teeth, and sell like hotcakes regardless of how ridiculous that looks if you’re middle-class or lower.”