854 Malvern Road, Armadale

After being in the same family for 47 years, this grand Victorian needs a new custodian. The facade impresses, while the formal living and sitting rooms have lovely proportions and period details. French doors in the family room lead to a large garden with pool. Densham Road access is a bonus. “It has beautiful bones,” the agent says.

69 Caroline Street, South Yarra

“South Yarra style” is writ large on this renovated classic in the classy locale’s sweet spot between Fawkner Park and the Yarra, and handy to Toorak Road’s endless sweep of eateries. Two bedrooms with en suites are upstairs, while courtyards bookend extended living and dining rooms. “There’s morning sun in the front, and the back is private, with parking via Northampton Place,” the agent says.

60 Fawkner Avenue, Blairgowrie

Wall-to-wall cedar lends a chalet feel to this elevated abode one block from the foreshore. Owned by the vendor for three decades, the quirky 1970s build by Alan Bail, of local renown, was designed to maximise beach, marina and water views. Its cedar-lined and beamed living zone, wrapped by a huge deck on treated-pine posts, sits atop mid-level bedrooms and ground-level utilities.

2 Thomson Street, Brighton

Whether you run a business, master a hobby, give the kids a play zone or convert it back into a garage, this studio is a handy bonus for its c1890 Victorian house. “These single-fronted cottages are rare for Brighton, as is the right-of-way road behind,” the agent says. Behind its block-fronted facade, the single-level property has a renovated interior and a private paved courtyard.

14 Raleigh Street, Windsor

The size of this home is a surprise for its city-edge address, especially at this price, the agent says. Start with an attractive double-fronted c1890 Victorian facade, add a vibrant, contemporary interior and tick off a barbecue deck beside a solar-heated pool. Five wardrobe-fitted bedrooms, three bathrooms, a study and two living zones are balanced across two levels. Stroll to Albert Park Lake.

111 Lord Street, Richmond

Befitting the splendour of its c1870s origins, Loyola’s well-appointed interior is “equally as impressive” as its double-fronted facade of patterned Hawthorn brickwork and lace-trimmed verandah, the agent says. “It’s been beautifully maintained by house-proud owners,” he says. Upper-floor kids’ bedrooms, a dual carport and a study or second living room off the family room will suit locals seeking to upsize from a cottage.

32 Ramptons Road, Eltham North

A distinctly 1970s Eltham vibe fills this corner-site family home with design character, from raked roof lines and a split-level floor plan to an over-sized brick hearth and kidney-shaped swimming pool. “It’s open plan but with defined spaces,” the agent says. From the sunken rumpus room, it’s a few steps up to the central kitchen with living zone, and a few more up to the bedrooms.

42 John Flagg Rise, Inverloch

Watch kangaroos pass by as you enjoy sea views from this patch of paradise. The house, designed by architect Michael Bellemo, has a family zone with a fireplace, window seats and a stylish kitchen. There are several decks, a spa and sauna, on 1.38 hectares in this eco-friendly estate. “It’s like living in a private sanctuary,” the agent says.

43 Franklin Road, Portsea

Within strolling distance of the Portsea Hotel, this pretty single-storey house is surrounded by mature gardens. With bedrooms divided into two wings, it is ideal for multigenerational families. There’s a formal lounge and dining room and an informal living area. The central terrace and pool are ready for summer and the tennis court is a surprise.

19 Cornell Lane, Mildura

This smart, contemporary house packs a lot onto its low-maintenance block. The standout is the open-plan family room with oodles of light from high windows and glass doors. The well-equipped kitchen is perfect for entertaining, or opt for the poolside al fresco space with fireplace and kitchen. It’s close to the city centre and the arts and river precinct.

This article was originally published by Domain.com.au. Reproduced with permission.