Inner-city house hunters in Brisbane are increasingly after a multiple car garage, says Place Estate Agents managing director Sarah Hackett. The lifestyle shift towards requesting more space is a result of several factors, says Hackett, the most obvious being that long-term street parking is difficult to find in Brisbane’s inner-city suburbs. "Ample garage space is highly sought after by buyers in today’s market," says Hackett. "Secure garage space is an extension of the home, and of course additional square metres will always ramp up the value of a property." Hackett said homes in inner city pockets are renowned for being tightly held by owners. "There are so many families in these homes with children at local high schools, and by the time the children reach senior, they are learning to drive and possibly looking to buy a first car in the coming years," she said. "Additionally, families want to provide space and ease of access for their guests and visitors. Parents have recognised that they need garage space as their family grows. And of course, astute buyers also understand the long term value of this feature." Population growth and traffic congestion are some of the driving forces behind garage demands. "As Brisbane’s population continues to grow we’re seeing more and more buyers eager to purchase as close to inner city as possible to support their busy lifestyles," said Hackett. She believes inner-city buyers are prepared to pay a premium for double garages, or larger, to accommodate cars and achieve peace of mind, knowing they have security and space, and don’t have to fight for an on-street park. "Buyers know that designing and building a garage isn’t a simple cosmetic project, which is another reason why we’ve noticed that people are prepared to pay more for the space," she said. "These types of buyer requests confirms that convenience, ease of living and space are still top priorities for house hunters."