Fire-ravaged Sydney home sparks hot auction

While a number of Sydney homes are struggling to secure a sale under the hammer, a fire-ravaged three-bedroom in the city’s west has defied the broader market odds, selling for above expectations despite buyers unable to set foot inside. The former Homes NSW housing commission property suffered an internal fire that has left the home with its windows boarded up. Still, 19 Robertson Street, Merrylands managed to attract six registered bidders, two who were active in competing for the property. It spotlights an appetite for properties with potential, and those that sit close to the $1m price range. Sold by Auction Chief Auctioneer Ben Mitchell said the multiple registered bidders was bucking the broader trend at the moment. “The average properties around Sydney at the moment, six to 12 months ago we would have five to 10 registrations and now we are getting ones and twos,” he said. “A lot (of homes) have been passing in.” 9 Robertson Street, Merrylands is a former Homes NSW housing commission property that suffered an internal fire. Picture: Sarah WilsonAuctioneer Ben Mitchell selling the fire damaged home. Picture: Sarah Wilson Mr Mitchell said if vendors are prepared to listen to t...