Daniella Rundle has sold a three-bedroom apartment at 16/14 Woolcott Street, Waverton, for $1,987,500 at auction to a regional buyer who viewed the property in person only once — on auction day.
The challenge was clear from the outset: how do you build enough confidence for a buyer 300 kilometres away to compete at auction without setting foot in the property? For Daniella, the answer was exhaustive preparation before auction day arrived.
Building confidence from a distance
The successful buyer first saw the 115-square-metre apartment via FaceTime inspection. Over the following weeks, Daniella fielded questions through multiple calls and emails, ensuring every detail was addressed before the auction.
“Majority of questions were answered prior to the auction itself, either over FaceTime, phone calls or emails to ensure they were fully prepped and ready for the auction itself and felt prepared going in,” Daniella said.
When auction day arrived on 20 June, the buyer walked into the property for the first time and immediately registered to bid.
What drew them to Waverton
The buyer was searching for a Sydney base with premium location credentials. This apartment delivered: opposite a park, around the corner from Waverton station, and walking distance to village cafes and harbour trails.
“They were from central New South Wales looking for a Sydney pad. This location was perfect based on it being close to the train station and in a premium area,” Daniella said.
The property was sold vacant, offering immediate possession in a boutique 18-unit complex.
The auction and negotiation
Two bidders registered on the day. Bidding opened at the $1.8 million guide, with the successful buyer consistently lifting their offers to secure the property. The final price of $1,987,500 was reached through further negotiation.
The result carries particular weight when compared to a fully renovated apartment directly below, which sold in 2024 for $2,040,000. The narrow $52,500 gap demonstrates the premium buyers place on location and future renovation potential over finished presentation.
Market context: Waverton’s tightly held appeal
Waverton’s appeal centres on village convenience rather than harbour spectacle — this apartment sits opposite a park, near Waverton station and walking trails to Balls Head Reserve. The suburb is tightly held, with property data showing average ownership periods of 17 years, reflecting buyer loyalty to the lifestyle and premium Lower North Shore positioning.
The price growth trajectory tells its own story: the apartment last changed hands in February 2002 for $479,000, representing substantial appreciation over 24 years.
What it means for future sellers
For Daniella, the result reinforces Waverton’s appeal to buyers prioritising convenience and potential.
“With this property, despite being in unrenovated in fairly original condition and lacking harbour views, the apartment attracts strong interest because of its private aspect, quiet setting and convenient proximity to Waverton Village, local cafes and train stations,” she said.
“Because of Waverton’s premium area, it always is holding its value and is a competitive area to get into. So for sellers that are looking to release their property, it is always a safe bet to being located in Waverton.”
About the Agent
Daniella Rundle from Richardson & Wrench North Sydney is recognised for her warm, client-focused approach and commitment to achieving outstanding results. A national award recipient within the Richardson & Wrench brand, she excels at building long-term relationships and coordinating communications to enhance the client experience throughout every stage of the real estate journey. Visit Daniella’s website for more information or call Daniella on 0466248513.