Sydney, 20 July 2015 – Balmain’s renowned Exchange Hotel is the latest asset to test the strength of Sydney’s hotel market, with the heritage-listed venue set to be sold under the hammer next month.
Built in 1885, the three storey Exchange Hotel is one of Balmain’s most revered landmarks, featuring two bars, balconied seating, functions room and a full a la carte restaurant.
Located at 94 Bettie Street, the Exchange Hotel is positioned on a prominent 680sqm corner site and benefits from a central position in Balmain’s dining and pub precinct.
The freehold will be sold via auction on August 20.
CBRE Hotels Director Daniel Dragicevich, who is selling the asset in conjunction with CBRE Capital Markets Director Nicholas Heaton, said the asset was expected to generate strong investor interest.
“The Exchange Hotel is a Balmain institution held in high regard by those in the industry. With its larger footprint than most of its competitors, there is the definite potential to build on the already impressive cash flows of the business,” Mr Dragicevich said.
“The Sydney metro pub market is exceptionally strong at present and we expect the purchaser appetite for this asset will be a further example of this.”
Mr Heaton said the asset’s development potential would be a major drawcard attracting buyers.
“This Balmain institution will no doubt be hotly contested, with the asset’s underlying property value, future development potential and existing successful business operations making it one of the market’s premier offerings of 2015,” Mr Heaton explained.
“The property will appeal to high net worth private investors, developers and publicans wanting buy a freestanding heritage building in the highly sought after city fringe location, Balmain.
Mr Dragicevich went on to say the asset was positioned to capitalise on ongoing momentum in the hotel market.
“There has been a surge of activity in every sphere of the commercial property market, as well as a flurry of cross sector investment sales where astute purchasers are looking at all asset classes for maximum return opportunities,” Mr Dragicevich said.
“Of particular interest, has been a spate of recent pub sales to non-traditional buyers with various intentions for the site. The sale of the Bull and Bush in Baulkham Hills and Exchange Hotel in Darlinghurst are prime examples where the strength of the commercial and residential markets has outweighed the appetite of hotel investors, with vendors ultimately benefiting in price.”
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