News

<p data-block-key="8gx8a">When little Sophie Luton blew out the candles on her 10th birthday cake, she wished for her mum and dad’s brand new business to be a success.</p><p data-block-key="u9k8">The business, Luton Properties, had launched the exact same day in 1999 from a tiny office in Manuka Court, just off Bougainville Street. Dad Richard had been in the real estate game for six years and earned the kind of reputation that makes one seriously start thinking about going out on their own. So Richard did.</p><img alt="IMG_2929" class="richtext-image full-width" height="800" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_2929.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="9cttl">Sophie remembers long nights at the office with her two sisters, Courtney and Madison, living on takeaway from Le Rendezvous Italian restaurant while dad Richard and mum Danielle poured their energy into selling homes and building a legacy for their three daughters.</p><p data-block-key="fmd2u">“Richard was thinking of us when he started Luton Properties 25 years ago,” Sophie says.</p><p data-block-key="1b9mm">“He said it was so we’d always have a place to be employed. But it became so much more than that.”</p><p data-block-key="ka8a">It’s fair to say little Sophie Luton’s birthday wish came true.</p><img alt="IMG_2935" class="richtext-image full-width" height="857" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_2935.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="6arrb">Luton Properties turns 25 this week and is the kind of business Richard could only have dreamed of building. Today, Luton employs more than 80 staff across the ACT, with four offices and around 800 properties sold annually. The agency’s property management portfolio is 1,900 residences strong. Since 1999, Luton Properties has sold more than 20,500 homes.</p><p data-block-key="aurtr">Among the first to join Richard Luton Properties were Aniko and Peter Carey - and they’ve never left. Aniko had been high school friends with Richard in their small hometown of Cooma, and both had worked for Ansett. Aniko believed in Richard’s enthusiasm and talent, and it wasn’t long before more agents started signing up to the Luton vision.</p><p data-block-key="7gje7">They were drawn by Richard’s passion for property and his vitality: attributes that continue to drive the business today, according to Sophie.</p><img alt="IMG_2931" class="richtext-image full-width" height="758" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_2931.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="td2e">“Richard&#x27;s continuous energy, motivation and the fact that he&#x27;s still here 25 years later, pretty much every day of the week, is what keeps everyone else going,” Sophie says.</p><p data-block-key="f58p8">“But at the same time, it’s our incredible staff who keep Richard going.</p><p data-block-key="8s0c3">“We’ve always looked for team members who have the willingness to simply do the best for our clients. The client&#x27;s decision is what drives us every single day. And we focus on service, communication, and always thinking of the client first.”</p><p data-block-key="bhbm3">Luton Properties has always been big on returning the love to the community.</p><img alt="IMG_2933" class="richtext-image full-width" height="985" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_2933.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="frk0f">The Luton Charity Balls were a highlight of the Canberra social calendar up until 2020, while the Luton Charity Golf Days now allows the business to give back to those who need it most.</p><p data-block-key="8roff">“It’s our staff who choose the charities we support each year — we all vote,” Sophie says.</p><p data-block-key="f981n">“It&#x27;s a really fluid decision that actually comes from the team, not from the top. And that&#x27;s a big part of our values actually, making sure it’s our team members driving decisions.”</p><img alt="IMG_2930" class="richtext-image full-width" height="606" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_2930.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="8q16q">So will Luton Properties continue to dominate Canberra real estate for another 25 years?</p><p data-block-key="7ejdg">“Yes – and more,” Sophie says.</p><p data-block-key="bfova">“Richard&#x27;s done such a great job of building a brand, a company and a culture that the new directors and staff can continue to mold and take further.</p><p data-block-key="eh0j4">“He’s ensured that we can go for another 25, 50, or however long the name lives on for.”</p><img alt="IMG_2934" class="richtext-image full-width" height="831" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_2934.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="256p0">Sophie thanked the clients and supporters of Luton Properties since 1999.</p><p data-block-key="566j2">“Every day we are so grateful we live in Canberra,” she says.</p><p data-block-key="5qt4p">“Building a business over 25 years is no small feat and we couldn’t have done it without the trust and support of so many Canberrans.&quot;</p>

'No small feat': What it took to build Luton Properties into a business spanning 25 years

Property

<p data-block-key="ug6mf">They were among the original suburbs of our fair city, located close to Parliament, the shores of our brand new lake and our earliest and most prestigious schools.</p><p data-block-key="f1o1s">So if you had a cool $3.5 million (or more) to spend, would you live in Deakin or Yarralumla?</p><p data-block-key="chupf">Check out the luxe listings available in both suburbs right now.</p><h2 data-block-key="fon2">Deakin: 2600</h2><h3 data-block-key="76r0r"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/84-empire-circuit-deakin-act-2600-97463/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">84 Empire Circuit, Deakin</a></h3><h4 data-block-key="dosab">$5.995 million</h4><img alt="84-empire-circuit-deakin-act-2600-97463-image-0-20240313211644944188-crop-c0-5__0-5-1600x750-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="375" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/84-empire-circuit-deakin-act-2600-97463-image-.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="8muti">The opportunity to buy a 2411sqm estate in the inner south? Unheard of. Blending modern design with Old Deakin charm, this renovated family home is pure Canberra perfection.</p><img alt="84-empire-circuit-deakin-act-2600-97463-image-0-20240313211645288810-crop-c0-5__0-5-1600x750-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="375" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/84-empire-circuit-deakin-act-2600-97463-image-.width-800_XwJhwET.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="65t6o">The estate features a full-sized tennis court and opulent swimming pool, while inside is lined with premium finishes and packed with natural light. Simple 2600 luxe.</p><h3 data-block-key="6e3jh"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/74-dominion-circuit-deakin-act-2600-94783/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">74 Dominion Circuit, Deakin</a></h3><h4 data-block-key="esscr">$3.995 million</h4><img alt="74-dominion-circuit-deakin-act-2600-94783-image-0-20240201221637698174-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/74-dominion-circuit-deakin-act-2600-94783-imag.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="44r0l">Timeless elegance meets modern luxury in this executive home. With five bedrooms and three bathrooms, it&#x27;s a haven of refined living set among private gardens.</p><img alt="74-dominion-circuit-deakin-act-2600-94783-image-0-20240201120135427236-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/74-dominion-circuit-deakin-act-2600-94783-imag.width-800_MRl0NaI.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="9krdc">Entertain a crowd in the spacious living areas or spend time alone reading in the north-facing private portico or cosy family room. Ideally located near the Parliamentary Triangle and Deakin shops.</p><h3 data-block-key="ambup"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/7-normanby-crescent-deakin-act-2600-84185/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">7 Normanby Crescent, Deakin</a></h3><h4 data-block-key="1oav6">By negotiation</h4><img alt="7-normanby-crescent-deakin-act-2600-84185-image-0-20240201223137085063-crop-c0-5__0-5-1600x750-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="375" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/7-normanby-crescent-deakin-act-2600-84185-imag.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="eecls">This exquisite new residence defines luxury living. With a 390sqm floor plan on a sprawling 915sqm block, it’s a an example of stunning contemporary design and meticulous craftsmanship.</p><img alt="7-normanby-crescent-deakin-act-2600-84185-image-0-20240201223139709485-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/7-normanby-crescent-deakin-act-2600-84185-imag.width-800_MIKa5xV.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="tlfm">Features include a designer kitchen, open living areas, and a private courtyard with pool. EER 6.9.</p><h2 data-block-key="6fjjc">Yarralumla: 2601</h2><h3 data-block-key="7lic0"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/4-brown-street-yarralumla-act-2600-99132/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">4 Brown Street, Yarralumla</a></h3><h4 data-block-key="emskt">Auction Saturday 4 May 2024</h4><img alt="4-brown-street-yarralumla-act-2600-99132-image-0-20240410211649033595-crop-c0-5__0-5-1600x750-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="375" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/4-brown-street-yarralumla-act-2600-99132-image.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="bq96c">One thing Deakin can’t boast is lakeside living. Located In sought-after Brown Street, this home offers luxurious features like polished Jarrah floors, five bedrooms with balconies, and multiple living spaces.</p><img alt="4-brown-street-yarralumla-act-2600-99132-image-0-20240410211653553311-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/4-brown-street-yarralumla-act-2600-99132-image.width-800_txIGPyu.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="6qphk">And it’s located along Lake Burley Griffin&#x27;s southern shore just metres from the water. Dreamy.</p><h3 data-block-key="7cbnd"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/5-fitzgerald-street-yarralumla-act-2600-85286/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">5 Fitzgerald Street, Yarralumla</a></h3><h4 data-block-key="adlc7">By negotiation</h4><img alt="5-fitzgerald-street-yarralumla-act-2600-85286-image-0-20230825001630526566-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-fitzgerald-street-yarralumla-act-2600-85286-.width-800_5a5WVra.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="3ud8l">Dreaming of serene parkland views? This architect-designed mansion exudes quality and space. Features include high ceilings, and a designer kitchen with Calacutta marble and Miele and Zug appliances.</p><img alt="5-fitzgerald-street-yarralumla-act-2600-85286-image-0-20230825001631567007-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-fitzgerald-street-yarralumla-act-2600-85286-.width-800_aw8vley.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="c82ll">Swim in the heated pool all year round and lounge around on the home’s expansive decks. A superb offering with modern amenities and tranquil surroundings.</p><h3 data-block-key="b9kv2"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/12-solander-place-yarralumla-act-2600-70435/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">12 Solander Place, Yarralumla</a></h3><h4 data-block-key="1c1eh">By negotiation</h4><img alt="12-solander-place-yarralumla-act-2600-70435-image-0-20231005061638399093-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/12-solander-place-yarralumla-act-2600-70435-im.width-800.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="9abdl">‘Verona’ offers unparalleled privacy and luxury living. With over 600sqm of living space, multiple elegant living areas feature timber floors, fireplaces and high ceilings.</p><img alt="12-solander-place-yarralumla-act-2600-70435-image-0-20231005061637325380-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/12-solander-place-yarralumla-act-2600-70435-im.width-800_fSukcYh.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="tvem">The luxe kitchen features marble countertops and high-end appliances. Outside, indulge in al fresco entertaining, a solar-heated pool and sports facilities.</p>

Multi-million dollar listing: Deakin v Yarralumla

<p data-block-key="hoggq">This renovated 1927 home on a stately 3400sqm block offers country estate-like living in the heart of Canberra.</p><p data-block-key="7442s">The Red Hill property at <a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">4 Moresby Street</a> has outgrown its humble 1900s origins and evolved into a two-storey family home, while retaining an established wrap-around garden.</p><p data-block-key="6r33a"><a href="https://zango.com.au/agencies/luton-manuka/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Luton Properties</a> real estate agent <a href="/agents/sophie-luton-2/">Sophie Luton</a> says prospective owners might consider buying GPS units to keep track of their children.</p><p data-block-key="c5dvq">“Almost three-and-a-half thousand square metre properties in a sought-after part of Canberra just don’t come up often,” she says.</p><p data-block-key="emk3k">“It feels like you’re in an estate in Bowral or somewhere similar because of how much garden surrounds the property.</p><p data-block-key="b1jqs">“It’s a retreat in the middle of Canberra.”</p><div>
    <iframe width="200" height="113" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X50NbeA26wY?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen title="Zango Feature Property Preview: 4 Moresby Street RED HILL"></iframe>
</div>
<p data-block-key="3h8oo">The home is within walking distance of the parliamentary triangle, Manuka Village, schools and walking trails.</p><p data-block-key="cfl25">Visitors take in views of towering trees and manicured lawns after they drive through the gates and travel on foot through an extended entry porch.</p><p data-block-key="2icg4">Outdoor living highlights include a fish pond, a fully tiled and solar-heated pool, a gazebo with a built-in kitchen, a fire pit and numerous entertaining spaces.</p><img alt="4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image-0-20230308214632494935-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image.width-800_I6OJJrs.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="5lqfs">Sophie says high ceilings and an assortment of mostly double-glazed windows ensure the garden views don’t end once inside.</p><p data-block-key="193a">“When you walk in the front door, your eye travels straight down the corridor and out into the garden,” she says.</p><p data-block-key="2p753">“The home is full of light and greenery, and every room has a garden view and a tranquil oasis feel.&quot;</p><p data-block-key="538d9">The front of the house features dedicated lounge and dining rooms, while the rear features two more flexible living areas.</p><p data-block-key="5tn64">The far-side rooms include a rumpus with built-in cabinetry, and an open-plan meals and family room with garden access.</p><img alt="4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image-0-20230308214634762829-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image.width-800_zYcf95u.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="8ujmu">In the centre of the home is a kitchen with a granite island benchtop, stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar and a walk-in pantry.</p><p data-block-key="2a0i2">These rooms all have windows and glass-panelled doors opening onto the home&#x27;s numerous outdoor entertaining spaces.</p><p data-block-key="bgbe2">Also downstairs is a study with a built-in fireplace and cabinetry, and a second bathroom with in-floor heating and pool access.</p><p data-block-key="36nah">The master suite boasts a private garden deck, walk-through-robe and an ensuite with floor-to-ceiling tiles and in-floor heating.</p><img alt="4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image-0-20230308214636144399-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image.width-800_LLfwA5Y.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="9kh5c">The other downstairs bedroom is conveniently positioned next to a second bathroom, also featuring floor-to-ceiling tiles.</p><p data-block-key="da600">“Downstairs is double brick construction, so when it’s a hot day, it stays a beautiful temperature inside,” Sophie says.</p><p data-block-key="ca87q">Ducted reverse-cycle heating and cooling and hydronic heating offer an extra boost on the hottest or coldest days.</p><p data-block-key="ctjvp">The home’s third and fourth bedrooms are upstairs, alongside a third bathroom, complete with floor-to-ceiling tiles.</p><img alt="4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image-0-20230308214633321286-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616-image.width-800_IfxW926.jpg" width="800"><p data-block-key="1a31b">All but one of the home’s bedrooms feature master-suite-style walk-in robes, with the other having a built-in robe and sun deck.</p><p data-block-key="ekq67">“It’s one of those properties that we all dream of one day having as a family home,” Sophie says.</p><p data-block-key="4hqe8">Number 4 Moresby Street, Red Hill, goes to auction at 11am this Saturday 1 April 2023.</p><h4 data-block-key="9ksjv"><a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/4-moresby-street-red-hill-act-2603-76616/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View the full listing.</a></h4><p data-block-key="dcr98"><i>Article originally written and published by</i> <a href="https://the-riotact.com/chance-to-call-an-extra-big-slice-of-canberras-history-your-own/644971" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>The RiotACT.</i></a></p>

3 news articles with tag richard-luton

'No small feat': What it took to build Luton Properties into a business spanning 25 years

Multi-million dollar listing: Deakin v Yarralumla

Breathtaking estate 'like living in Bowral', except it's in Red Hill