DADADEL
For decades, the Miliado family’s three-acre property stood as a green oasis in the rapidly expanding suburb of Salisbury, Adelaide. Surrounded by sleek modern homes, the family’s unwavering refusal to sell became a symbol of defiance and attachment to heritage. Recently, this saga concluded when the property sold for over AUD 6 million, drawing widespread attention to their remarkable journey.
The Miliado family acquired their property in the 1950s. As time passed, the quiet area transformed into a bustling suburb, with developers building homes and infrastructure around the once-isolated land. Despite persistent offers over the years, the family adhered to their late parents’ wishes, refusing to sell for over three decades to preserve the family legacy.
The property itself was a relic of the past. Featuring a simple three-bedroom home built in 1955 and a large shed, it stood out amidst rows of contemporary houses. Its untouched interiors offered a glimpse into mid-20th-century life, presenting a stark contrast to the modernized surroundings.
The family finally decided to sell after the passing of their parents. The emotional strain of maintaining the property and increasing financial pressures led them to put the land on the market. Marketed as a “rare land holding,” the unique property immediately caught the attention of eager developers.
An auction for the land attracted fierce competition, with 20 developers vying for the opportunity. Initially listed at AUD 3.6 million, the bidding escalated dramatically, ultimately exceeding expectations by AUD 2.4 million and reaching a final sale price of over AUD 6 million.
The sale was bittersweet for the Miliado family. While the impressive sum offered financial relief, letting go of the land meant closing a significant chapter of their family’s history. “It was their wish to never sell,” shared real estate agent Tom Hector, underscoring the emotional difficulty of the decision.
The property’s prime location near schools and shopping centers makes it a developer’s dream. With immense potential for residential transformation, urban planners are expected to turn the land into a thriving community. The sale marks a new phase for the area, with plans to reimagine the plot in line with modern urban demands.
The Miliado family’s story echoes a broader tension between private landowners and relentless urban development.
