Beach boxes, also known as bathing boxes or boat sheds, are a unique segment of the waterfront property market, offering buyers a chance to own prime beach real estate. These colorful wooden huts along the Victorian coastline serve as shelters, fishing gear storage, and relaxation spots, commanding prices exceeding the average Melbourne house.
One exceptional listing stands out in this niche market – a double-storey beach box at Hawkers Beach, Mt Martha, Victoria, believed to be the only one of its kind in Australia. With a price tag of $500,000, this beach box boasts stunning city skyline views and exquisite interior finishes, making it a rare gem for beach lovers.
While beach boxes may lack modern amenities like electricity and water, they hold immense cultural and historical significance. Brighton’s iconic bathing boxes along Dendy Street Beach, for instance, are cherished as classic Victorian structures with timber framing and corrugated iron roofs, dating back over a century.
According to experts like Jarrod Eastwood from Belle Property Rosebud and Dromana, beach boxes are often passed down through generations within families, reflecting a deep attachment to these coastal retreats. Despite their basic amenities, these properties hold sentimental value for many owners who spend quality time by the sea.
Recent sales in the beach box market have seen record prices, with properties like Boatshed 26 in McCrae selling for $505,000 after being held by a single family for 56 years. Similarly, a boat shed in Bonbeach set a new benchmark by fetching $310,000, showcasing the enduring appeal and financial value of these humble structures.
With interest rates on the rise, acquiring a beach box has become more challenging for buyers relying on loans. Cash buyers are increasingly prevalent in this market, driving up prices, with some properties selling for well above Melbourne’s median house price, such as a boat shed at Fishermans Beach that reportedly sold for nearly $1.1 million.
Despite the hefty price tags, there are still opportunities for buyers to own a piece of beachfront paradise, with listings ranging from $110,000 upwards. Properties like Boatshed 100 North Beach and Boatshed 53 at Safety Beach offer a chance to enjoy seaside living in these charming structures.
Whether it’s the allure of beachside bliss, panoramic views, or fully-equipped amenities, beach boxes continue to captivate buyers seeking a slice of coastal tranquility. As these unique properties remain tightly held and steeped in tradition, they represent a timeless investment in Australia’s beachfront heritage.
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