‘I’ve never fallen in love with a house before’: The letter that won them their dream home

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‘I’ve never fallen in love with a house before’: The letter that won them their dream home

Persistence pays off in securing their long-loved Little River dream home.

Alan Granville
Last updated: 8 April 2026 | 3 min read
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A couple's persistence secured their dream home in Little River, a former hospital they had loved for years. After initially missing out, a letter to the owners eventually led to a private sale.

This unique Banks Peninsula property, built in 1925, retains historical features like wide hallways and a former morgue, now a storeroom. The home includes a renovated kitchen, an artist's studio, and a large garden, offering a strong community feel. The owners are now selling to move closer to medical facilities.

The long hallway was the first feature that grabbed Shirlaw. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

The main living area is bright and open. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

There’s a lot of history here. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

Some work has been done on the kitchen. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

A pretty impressive pantry. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

There are four bedrooms. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

Upstairs offers a few possibilities. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

The studio was a project for the couple. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

Van der Sluijs uses it as his work space. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

The couple love the garden. Photo: TRADE ME/BAYLEYS

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Alan Granville Alan Granville
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