Why a two-storey office block in Geelong is better than a bank

15 Little Ryrie Street, Geelong, will go to auction on March 31.

A two-storey office building in central Geelong is better than a bank at the moment, given current low savings interest rates.

The well-presented building with 761sq m of floorspace is being offered at auction as freehold investment opportunity.

Darcy Jarman, Newtown agent Tim Darcy said the 600sq m property at 15 Little Ryrie Street, Geelong, offered buyers a set-and-forget opportunity for the short to medium term.

15 Little Ryrie Street, Geelong, is opposite the Australian Tax Office’s Geelong home.

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Mr Darcy said the freehold property was in an Activity Centre Zone, which presented a long-term value opportunity.

Not-for-profit disability, ageing and community service provider GenU has recently signed a new five-year lease, with an option for an additional years, providing an annual rent of $135,000, with fixed 3 per cent annual increases.

The 604sq m freehold site is immediately behind the construction site for Geelong’s Holiday Inn and Ryrie Home apartments.

Mr Darcy said he expected the property would sell in the high $2m range.

The property is located on the north side of Little Ryrie Street, next to Centrelink and the Australian Taxation Office and close to St John of God Hospital.

Surrounding development comprises a mix of predominantly established commercial premises

of mixed age and construction and secure residential apartment complexes currently under

construction.

“It’s about as good as it gets as a set and forget investment in the short to medium term,” he said.

Mr Darcy said interest was solid, with local and external buyers.

“They’re very much looking first and foremost as a secure passive investment, with a secure recurring income.

Geelong’s central business district is expanding as key occupants upgrade or build new offices.

“First and foremost is to buy looking for some money to park and get a return on their capital.”

Mr Darcy said the freehold property was serviced by two street frontages to Little Ryrie Street and Cuzens Place.

The 604sq m land component has potential long-term redevelopment scope, enhanced by its freehold status.

The original part of the building is double brick, with a rear extension six years ago completed with a concrete tilt panel construction.

The building presents in excellent condition throughout and comprises open-plan office space,

partitioned offices, meeting rooms, training rooms, kitchenette and toilet/bathroom facilities.

Undercroft carparking and storage area at the rear includes eight car spaces.

The property goes to auction on March 31 at noon.