24 Market Road Werribee

Step back in time to the 1930s with this unique landmark Spanish Mission-style residence in Werribee Central.

Offered for sale for the first time since it was completed in 1933, “La Paloma” is on a 1331-square-metre block on the corner of Beasley Avenue.

Resplendent with extensive leadlighting, cedar plate racks and picture rails, decorative ceiling panels and equally ornate cornices, the character-filled dwelling has been lovingly maintained in original condition.

It displays many of the style’s trademark features including triple arches, stucco walls and external arcades. The double-door entry opens to the grand foyer, which also has a cloak cupboard.

Leadlight double doors open on the right to the lounge room. Highlighted by an exposed-brick fireplace with grand timber mantel, it also opens to a patio framed by arches. Another set of double doors lead into the dining room which has a corner fireplace.

The original eat-in kitchen has a 1970s oven in the tiled hearth, and is next to the rear laundry and toilet.

There is also the skylit bathroom with marble-topped vanity and corner shower, and three double bedrooms to complete the floor plan.

A side gate opens to the 8-metre x 4-metre solar heated in-ground pool which is complemented by a lawned area and brick barbecue.

Extras include ducted heating, refrigerated cooling and roof storage.

Behind neat gardens, the clinker-brick house awaits a new lease of life with a renovation under the existing roofline to create the best of old and new.

Alternatively, the dwelling could be retained in all its glory and converted to professional suites, subject to council approval.

Investors should note that the rear units, 24a and 24b Market Road, each return $650 a calendar month.

Built in the mid-1960s, each has two bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, bathroom with laundry facilities, and a car space. Both house long-term tenants happy to stay.

The position will also have more than its fair share of admirers, with Werribee train station, river parklands, milk bar, schools, Werribee Plaza and Watton Street nearby.

ross mcgravie