4072 West 11th Ave., Vancouver
Asking price: $3,288,000
Selling price: $3,180,000
Previous selling prices: $2,200,000 (2009); $827,000 (2003); $960,000 (1993); $671,000 (1991)
Taxes: $7,671 (2009)
Days on market: 76
Listing agent: Sue Johnson and Sarah Thompson, Dexter Realty
"Sometimes, you can get more by refurbishing an older home than by purchasing a new one," says agent Sue Johnson.
By completely renovating this 4,691-square-foot house, which was originally constructed in 1990, instead of demolishing it and building anew, the previous owner/developer was able to create bonus square footage for this house by maintaining its Victorian-styled turret and two-storey dining room, which would not have been allowed with a new construction. "Plus, there is no GST," says Ms. Johnson.
"The previous owner was able to keep the original Victorian style of this six-bedroom home, and make it current with the addition of luxurious features and amenities that today's buyers have come to expect and desire," says Ms. Johnson
The house has a gourmet chef's kitchen with stainless-steel appliances and an eating area with French doors that lead onto a deck and south-facing gardens with ocean, city and mountain views.
The master bedroom has, "an ensuite to die for," says Ms. Johnson. The basement has a separate two-bedroom suite with walk-in closets, as well as media room and a sauna. The rest of the home has numerous custom built-ins, designer window coverings and fixtures, hardwood floors and four gas fireplaces.
The house is close to the beach, shops, restaurants and recreation.