How Our Director Justine Valender Turned One Perth Property Into Two
For many millennials, buying a home — let alone investing in property — can feel completely out of reach. But what if we told you that with the right strategy, team, and timing, it’s still possible?
That’s exactly what Justine Valender, Director of Centurion Real Estate, set out to prove when she bought her first home at age 26. What started as a tired house in High Wycombe became a renovated rental, a subdivision, and eventually a second home — built and sold for profit.
Here’s how she did it.
The Starting Point: 61 Cyril Road, High Wycombe
Back in 2012, Justine secured a 3×1 home on a generous 837sqm block at 61 Cyril Road for $350,000. It was nothing fancy — built in the ’60s, it needed a full paint job, a basic kitchen makeover, and a serious garden clean-up.
Instead of waiting for the settlement to finish, she included a clause in her contract allowing her to start renovations early. That move saved time and holding costs — and just four days after settlement, she had the home leased out at $400/week.
Subdivision Strategy: Unlocking the Backyard
After living in the home for 12 months to qualify for the First Home Buyer Grant, Justine got to work. The block was already zoned R25/40, and the layout made it ideal for retaining the front house and building at the rear.
The front home was sold for $363,000, freeing up capital. The now-vacant rear block was ready for stage two: building a modern 4×2.
Stage Two: A New Build, a New Return
The new home was completed for just over $220,000 and rented out immediately at $470/week. Justine held the property for 12 months, then sold it for $442,000 — just before the Perth market softened.
Two properties, two rental incomes, and two profitable sales — all from one initial purchase.
“It’s Been a Rollercoaster, but a Rewarding One”
As Justine shares:
“The journey has been a rollercoaster, but overall, very successful. I’m open to sharing my mistakes to help my clients avoid any costly pitfalls they may come across. But I’ve also made some great gains through property investing.”
What Made It Work?
It wasn’t luck. It was:
- Backing every decision with an experienced team.
- Buying in a high-demand suburb with long-term growth.
- Adding value through simple, smart renovations.
- Unlocking equity via subdivision.
- Timing sales to reduce capital gains.
Real Investors. Real Results.
At Centurion Real Estate, we don’t just talk property — we live it. Our agency was named REIWA’s 2024 Property Management Agency of the Year (WA) and has received national recognition for excellence.
We’ve helped dozens of investors in High Wycombe, Maida Vale, Forrestfield, Lesmurdie, and surrounds build profitable portfolios with confidence.
Want to Invest Like This? Let’s Talk Strategy
We offer:
- Support through settlement and beyond.
- Free rental appraisals for your next potential property.
- Advice on making stronger Offers & Acceptances.
- Compliance checks to protect your investment.
Ready to make your investment work smarter for you?
Reach out to Justine Valender and the Centurion team — and let’s map out your next move.