Neale Whitaker Secures Charming Country Escape on NSW South Coast
Renowned real estate expert and television personality Neale Whitaker has added a new property to his portfolio, purchasing a delightful country getaway on the picturesque NSW South Coast. The charming vintage cottage, located just 143 kilometres from Sydney in the sought-after town of Berry, marks a significant new chapter for Whitaker and his partner, stylist David Novak-Piper.
The former judge of the popular renovation show The Block acquired the four-bedroom, two-bathroom residence for $2.15 million. This move follows swiftly on the heels of Whitaker and Novak-Piper selling a nearby property they had owned since 2018. The couple, who are well-established in the region, confirmed the sale of their previous home, a classic farmhouse, which fetched an impressive $4.5 million at auction earlier this month. This sale represented a substantial profit, having originally been purchased for $1.8 million.
Whitaker himself confirmed the acquisition to The Wentworth Courier, characterising their new rural retreat as a “lovely traditional old weatherboard” home. He also revealed plans for a “decorative” renovation to further enhance the property’s inherent charm.
A Glimpse Inside the Historic Berry Cottage
The Berry cottage itself is steeped in history, having been built in 1916. Its prime location, just a single block away from Berry’s vibrant main street, offers both convenience and a sense of peaceful seclusion. The property last changed hands in 2013 for $825,000, highlighting the significant appreciation in value it has seen over the past decade.
While the home has been lovingly maintained and has undergone several updates over the years, it proudly retains many of its original architectural features, including its classic, enduring facade.
Key highlights of the interior include:
- Soaring Ceilings: Adding a sense of grandeur and space.
- Baltic Pine Flooring: A hallmark of quality craftsmanship and timeless appeal.
- Skylights: Allowing natural light to flood the living spaces.
- Working Fireplaces: Providing warmth and ambiance, perfect for cosy country evenings.
- Covered Entertainment Deck: An ideal spot for alfresco dining and entertaining guests, regardless of the weather.
The layout also boasts a sunroom that adjoins the formal dining room, offering a tranquil space for relaxation. Additionally, a second dining area is conveniently situated off the rustic kitchen. This kitchen is a particular point of interest, featuring an antique Younger No. 2 fuel stove, which adds a unique historical touch.
Outdoor Oasis and Serene Surroundings
The property’s appeal extends beyond its interiors. For those who enjoy outdoor living and entertaining, the grounds offer a wealth of features. A built-in swimming pool, complete with a covered deck, provides a refreshing escape during warmer months. The extensive, manicured gardens are a true testament to dedicated horticultural efforts, featuring a tranquil sanctuary and a dedicated BBQ area, perfect for hosting gatherings.
A New Chapter After The Block Farewell
Whitaker’s acquisition of the Berry cottage comes after a period of significant professional change. In 2024, he made headlines by dramatically stepping back from his role as a judge on The Block. This decision followed a period in 2023 where he took on a more limited judging capacity to support his partner, David Novak-Piper, during a challenging time of serious health issues.
Whitaker shared his reasons for the hiatus on social media, stating, “In 2023 – as many of you will know – I took a break from The Block to spend more time with my partner David, who was dealing with some serious health issues.”
The couple, who have been together for over two decades, announced their engagement in 2021. This announcement came as a surprise to some, as they had already been legally married in Britain. Whitaker previously shared with Yahoo Be in 2016 that he was “allowed to marry in Australia, in the British Consulate General,” a testament to their enduring commitment prior to same-sex marriage being legalised nationwide in December 2017.
Advocating for marriage equality, Whitaker had previously expressed the profound significance of marriage, telling Yahoo Be, “The older I get, the more important it becomes.” He also articulated the feeling of injustice felt by many before the legalisation, stating that not being able to legally marry in Australia felt “so wrong.”
Looking Ahead: My Reno Rules
While his time on The Block has concluded for now, Whitaker is not stepping away from the television screen. He is set to appear in Seven’s upcoming renovation series, My Reno Rules. Produced by Endemol Shine, the creators of MasterChef, the show is poised to be a strong competitor to Channel Nine’s The Block. My Reno Rules will feature four teams of renovators tackling the challenge of transforming two neighbouring rundown houses in Melbourne.
