PHOTO: Former Shortland Street star Lynette Forday. SUPPLIED
🏠 Why Lynette Forday Turned Down the Offer
Lynette Forday, beloved Shortland Street alum and reality star, made headlines when she rejected a $2.65 million auction bid for her six-bedroom home at 14 West View Road in Auckland’s prestigious Westmere.
“I’m in no rush, and the right person will come along, just like I did,” Forday told OneRoof, emphasising her confidence in holding out for the perfect buyer.
Despite being higher than the current capital valuation, Forday insists the price doesn’t capture the home’s unique selling points: a spacious artist’s studio, breathtaking views over Western Springs Park, and privacy—no neighbouring houses in sight.
The property started life as a 1920s workman’s cottage but has been added to over the years. Photo / Supplied
🔍 The Unique Features That Set It Apart
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100 sqm studio built by acclaimed artist Derrick Cherrie
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Elevated position with uninterrupted views of parkland and lake
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No immediate neighbours, ensuring absolute tranquillity
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Turn-key six-bedroom layout on a 733 sqm bush-lined site
Forday notes that council valuations don’t reflect these enhancements—nor the strong creative vibe of the property.
The balcony offers views of the lake. Forday has enjoyed the chatter of the nearby zoo animals. Photo / Supplied
📈 Market Insight & Timing
Experienced auctioneer Sam Steele of Ray White—who’s sold billions of dollars’ worth of real estate and regularly advises on NYC-level pricing—supports Forday’s patience. He explains:
“Buyers care a lot less about the CV than the owners do… council valuation may not be a true representation of the property’s value.”
This sentiment reflects broader trends in Westmere, Auckland’s hot central suburb. While average property prices hover around $3m, high-end homes have been fetching between $6m–$9m, demonstrating strong demand for standout properties.
⏳ Why Now Might Be the Perfect Moment to Wait
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Conditional interest: Forday says several buyers have made offers tied to the sale of their own homes—suggesting demand remains firm, even if the timing isn’t ideal.
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Auction dynamics shifting: Recent commentary from local agents suggests that only a third of auctions are selling under the hammer, amplifying the advantage of patience.
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Rising buyer frenzy for premium: Forday herself noted just how fast serious buyers struck when she first purchased—a sign of how rare, move-in-ready homes are snapped up.
🌟 What This Means for Home Sellers
| Sellers’ Takeaways | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Highlight special features | Studio, views and no neighbours justify premium pricing |
| Ignore CVs for unique homes | Auctioneer Sam Steele warns against using council valuations alone |
| Wait out conditional buyers | Building momentum can yield a better offer post-auction |
| Know your market | Westmere premium properties still draw strong interest |
SOURCE: NZHERALD