105 Hambleton Street MIDDLE PARK

Comments on 105 Hambleton Street MIDDLE PARK

From our 2011 Rating "Cracking property to renovate, in a coveted Middle Park Street. Block width, rear car access and north-eastern rear aspect are the main plusses. Hard to go wrong with this one - rated as Land Only."

2025
Good bones, good blank canvas, straightforward options to be great with clear and smart thinking!

Are you buying this as a project? Then yes – this makes a lot of sense.
You’re getting solid land (361sqm), a classic Middle Park façade, and a rear that’s ripe for a meaningful yet manageable renovation. Whether you’re a value-seeker wanting to create your version of great or someone emotionally drawn to space, light, and location — this is a strong proposition.

This isn’t a "cheap buy," but it’s a humanly reasonable price given what Middle Park is and where it sits against other $4m+ options in Albert Park or Brighton. It’s a house with a great start, and the rest is yours to shape

Price
At this price level, you are not paying for someone else's expensive and possibly off-trend finishes. You're not over-capitalising from the start. That gives you room to spend smartly and tailor the renovation to your own needs — or what future buyers will value.
Would I be nervous about getting value back post-reno?

No, not if it’s done well. This area supports it. Just don’t overbuild or chase unicorn finishes. Focus on scale, light, practicality – focus on proportions.

Position
Let’s be straight — Hambleton isn't the absolute "ant's pants" of Middle Park streetwise. But it’s still top 5% in Melbourne, arguably Australia.
You are:
- Close to everything: Rail, MSAC, Albert Park Lake, Armstrong Street village, schools, and the beach.
- Tightly held: Limited turnover means low supply tension — that works in your favour long term.
- Quiet and residential with no real compromises.This is an area you live in for lifestyle and longevity. Few reasons to leave once you're in.

Property
Front half? Lovely.
- It’s a block-fronted timber period home that has the presence and feel of stone.
- The street appeal is real, and those front rooms are substantial.
- There’s value in keeping their proportion and character — a sympathetic refresh is all that’s needed.

Back half? That’s where the work is.
- It’s a canvas.
- I’d suggest a meaningful double-box reno: upstairs and down. Make it bold in form and smart in layout.
- Don’t go overboard with luxury finishes — get the spaces right. That’s what delivers lifestyle and resale.

Orientation is a real plus here — there’s good sun from the north-ish aspect. Done well, that can turn the rear into something quite special.

What should you be thinking of if resale matters?
- Three-car garage off the lane with a studio above = high appeal.
- Make the mid-section strong in proportions, and the rear open and connected.
- Keep ceiling heights generous.
- Preserve and complement the front — that’s your emotional anchor.

The Real Question
Is this the home for you — for the next decade of your life?
If you want space, location, and something you can truly make your own — then yes, this makes a lot of sense.
If you're strategic about money and lifestyle — this also sits well.

Mal’s Take
I really like this home.
Not just for what it is now — but for what it can be with you in it.
If done right, this will be one of those projects that people look back on and say, “That was smart.”