A Bardon couple is preparing to sell their family home after owning the Bowman Parade property for 30 years.
A Home Purchased in the Mid-1990s
Mark and Kara Ellings bought the house at 83 Bowman Parade, settling the purchase in January 1995 for $212,000. The decision followed extended negotiations with the previous owners, eventually reaching an agreement that allowed the couple to secure the home where they later raised their three children.
The property last changed hands in 1988 for $126,500, according to historical records. Over time, the home became the centre of family life, with the couple choosing the location after returning from travel in Europe and wanting to live closer to the city.
Upgrades and Growth in Property Value
Across three decades, the pair completed several improvements, including a pool, carport, covered back deck and a new master suite. These changes complemented the home’s character features, including timber floors, VJ walls and fretwork.
PropTrack data shows that Bardon’s median home price has risen more than tenfold since the Ellings bought their property, currently sitting at $1.892 million.
The house now carries an estimated value of $2,395,000, supported by its four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two car spaces and 590m² lot. Satellite analysis lists a 249m² building size, 42% building coverage and an 8-metre roof height. The home also has HFC NBN, 5G coverage and falls within the Ashgrove State School and The Gap State High School catchments.
Changing Ownership Patterns
Place Woolloongabba agent Savva Koulouris, who will handle the listing, observed that long-term ownership of this length is becoming less common. He noted that younger generations often transition through apartments and townhouses before buying a standalone home, influenced by affordability patterns.
A Final Celebration Before Listing
The Ellings said the home had hosted numerous family milestones, with the back deck serving as the venue for birthdays and gatherings. Their daughter’s 30th birthday celebration this weekend will be the final major event before the property goes to market next week.
Looking Ahead
The couple said they would miss the Bardon community and the local places they had frequented over the years. They expressed hope that the next owners would form their own memories in the home, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the long-held property.
Published 19-Nov-2025
