An offer $115,000 beyond the reserve price has helped a first-home buyer secure a Mt Waverley unit before auction.

It also brought tears of joy to the 99-year-old owner of the three-bedroom unit on 311sq m at 2/44 Sesame Street, Barry Plant Wantirna director Daniel Cripps said.

“She was shocked at the price and very happy to take the offer,” he said.

“The seller had a reserve price of $1.1 million for the auction, but it sold prior for $1.215 million.”

Sale records showed the seller bought the property in 2001 for just $345,000.

The property attracted four offers and a family with a child won the keys with a very strong offer.

The buyer, who is renting locally, wanted to be in the Mt Waverley Secondary College zone, which is a sought-after public school.

“Although it is on a small block, we had strong numbers through the home,” Mr Cripps said.

The freestanding unit set to the rear of the block is ideal for small family or downsizers.

It offers a spacious and light-filled living area and dining zone plus a well-equipped kitchen and hardwood floors.

Mr Cripps noted that well-presented homes that do not need renovation or update are sought-after by buyers.

“Buyers are happy to pay for turnkey solution homes and we advise clients who are preparing to list to get their homes done up for sale,” he added.

In Wantirna South, another first-home buyer snapped up 25 Mosman Close before auction for a price above the seller’s expectations.

The four-bedroom house on a compact 330sq m block last sold in 2002 for $300,000, sales records showed.

The sellers, who are downsizing, had price expectations in the $1.05-$1.155 million range for the double-storey house and were pleased with the offer which was above the price guide. Three other buyers also made offers.

“The buyers, who are renting in a nearby suburb, loved the property,” Mr Cripps said.

The house has low-maintenance features, new carpets, spacious dining and kitchen area, and a covered outdoor entertainment space.

There were also three offers for 90 Mowbray Drive, Wantirna South, which sold privately near the top of its $1.3-$1.43 million price range. The five-bedroom house has a stunning outdoor entertainment zone with a pool and spa.