Buyers ended a four-year search for the perfect property in Highton in a crowded auction for a four-bedroom Malishev home.

The purchasers ticked off an exacting list of requirements at the 74 Rivergum Dr address, which sold for $1.33m.

But they had their work cut out for them to be in front when the 815sq m property sold at Saturday’s auction, after six bidders raised a hand.

Barry Plant, Highton agent Kieron Hunter had set a $1.1m to $1.2m price guide for the single-level home built by one of Geelong’s most renowned home builders.

Mr Hunter said the initial private sale campaign was converted to an auction after it was clear plenty of buyers saw value at that level.

“You’re in one of the best strips in Highton, Rivergum Dr.

“You are surrounded by good quality homes, circa $2m. This is affordable here.

“It is flat, is has the side access and there is parkland down the road.

“The home itself is a Malishev, one of the most well known brands and best builders in Geelong.

74 Rivergum Drive, Highton, attracted six bidders at auction. 74 Rivergum Drive, Highton, attracted six bidders at auction.

The quality is there, it’s double glazed, there’s extra insulation. You’ve got the north-facing courtyard outside.”

There was a wide mix of buyers, including families with young children and older couples.

Mr Hunter said prior to the auction that part of the attraction was acquiring a contemporary home and avoid building in the current climate.

Bidding opened at $1.1m, with three bidders raising a hand for the property before Mr Hunter declared it was on the market at $1.18m.

Two more bidders raised a hand as the price rounded $1.2m, with a sixth making a couple of hail Mary bids after the price had reached $1.3m.

74 Rivergum Drive, Highton, attracted six bidders at auction.

The buyers said they’d been searching in Highton and Wandana Heights for four years.

“We wanted a low, single-storey home and with a lot of room and there is not much choice,” she said.

“There are a lot of double-storey homes.”

The location close to the park was another key factor.

The house, built in 2010, offered dual access on the corner block, plus four bedrooms and three living areas, including the central kitchen with a butler’s pantry.

Records show the property last sold in 2013 for $735,000.

This article was written by Peter Farago and sourced from news.com.au