Colourful Bathing Box 60 on the Brighton foreshore smashed the previous $326,000 record price paid for one of the iconic beach sheds when it was snapped up before its scheduled December 2 auction.

Marshall White agent Barb Gregory would not disclose the sale price but confirmed it was “well in excess” of the previous high mark set when Bathing Box 85 was sold in December 2016.

Bathing Box 60 had been on the market with a price guide of $270,000-$297,000. It was due to go under the hammer at 3.30pm on December 2 but a local family headed off the contest with their record offer 48 hours before the auction.

Ms Gregory said the white, yellow and blue-stripped box had been owned by one family for many years.

“They make for a brilliant social catalyst,” Ms Gregory said.

“And they’re a terrific investment too when it comes to capital growth. About 35 years ago I bought one for $3200.”

Ms Gregory said buyers could expect to see beach boxes on the market through to the end of February, but owners often aimed to sell before Christmas.

Bathing Box 60 was one of several pocket-sized beach pads on the market.

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Further down the coast, 6 Boat Shed, Rye, is set to go under the hammer on December 2, with price hopes of $100,000-$110,000.

It stands alone on a grassy part of the foreshore near Daly Ave.

Another, Bathing Box 76E at Brighton’s Dendy Beach, is expected to fetch $300,000 when it heads to auction on December 9, the second time it has been up for grabs in less than two years.

It was built by Bayside City Council in 2015 and sold in January 2016 for $285,000.

Hodges, Brighton, director Julian Augustini said it was not uncommon for the iconic properties to be held for generations.

“So the quick turnover in this case is a particularly unique opportunity,” Mr Augustini said.

“Especially given its one that’s been recently built.

“It’s in a great position, at the quieter end of the beach and only has one neighbour.”