Hidden pockets of heritage gems in Darwin: HTW

Residential heritage property around the Darwin is generally located in the suburbs of suburbs of Larrakeyah, Parap and Fannie Bay and include older elevated buildings - the majority constructed in the 1950s during the rebuild post World War II, according to the valuation firm Herron Todd White.

Herron Todd White's heritage property report said entry level prices to these locations is now in excess of $700,000, with this price point  driven by land value rather than the added value of the heritage dwelling. and said in order to develop these properties for a higher and better use, the existing appeal must be retained.

"Often this will result in the original façade of the building being kept and blended into the new improvements," HTW said.

"Features of heritage and vintage residential property include elevated or low-set dwellings, excellent cross ventilation with use of high ceilings, louvre windows, wrap around verandahs and good sized balconies. The allotments tend to be heavily landscaped with large trees to provide shade from the afternoon sun. Notably these dwellings have open space underneath so the breeze can move through the dwelling, cooling it quickly once the afternoon sun sets. The more modern version of the Burnett Homes are the Troppo designed dwellings.

"The market shows that this heritage or vintage style of residential property is preferred by owner occupiers rather than tenants. Given the high degree of regular maintenance and upkeep, landlords are less inclined to leave this in the hands of tenants who are unlikely to manage and incur the maintenance expenses.

"So while Darwin doesn’t necessarily offer the heritage feel of older Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, there are pockets and hidden gems out there which can be transformed to achieve a tropical yesteryear feeling."