'There are a lot of low-rise or semi-detached houses in Jardine's Lookout, so if people are looking for that kind of space and privacy, this is the only place in eastern Mid-Levels where they will find it,' said William Lau Man-wa, assistant district manager of Midland Realty.

Mr Lau says he has two 'quite typical' houses for sale at the moment, although even by Jardine's Lookout standards, 19 Cooper Road is something of a rarity. Comprising 6,233 square feet of house and 16,360 sq ft of land, with a price tag of about HK$75 million, this property is the original 'renovator's delight'.

Its age is uncertain, but estimated to be at least 30 years. Mr Lau says the home is typical for Jardine's Lookout in that it is not new, has a huge garden, and no view. What is unusual is its eight bedrooms and four bathrooms, a legacy of the large family who lived there for many years.

Now vacant, the home also has a kitchen, living room, dining room and family room, two maids' rooms and two balconies. Renovated about seven or eight years ago, the condition is described as 'not too bad', although Mr Lau points out that a new owner would want to undertake a total renovation or perhaps even rebuild.

'The attraction is that it is very unusual to get such a big house in the area. Huge homes are never for rent, as they are meant for their owners' use. And most of them are not for sale, since families tend to stay in these houses for generations.'

Alongside the rarity factor is the realisation that not everyone would be willing to take on a project of this size. Hence, the property is for sale by tender, which closes on November 28.

The other house for sale, at 8 Boyce Road, is a smaller, detached house of 3,000 sq ft on a lot size of 4,175 sq ft. Built in 1972, the asking price is HK$32 million. This three-level house has five bedrooms, two ensuites, three maids' quarters and a garage. There are no balconies, but there are gardens at the back and front and an open view.

'It is a bit battered, but most buyers would like to renovate to their own taste,' Mr Lau said.

Looking more like the Hong Kong housing of modern times is Cavendish Heights, at 33 Perkins Road. Edith Choi Pui-fong of Centaline Property Agency describes this building as 'the hottest listing in Jardine's Lookout' because of its attractive site development and full clubhouse facilities that include a pool.

Towers one and two in the eight-block development built in 1988 also have the advantage of a full harbour view. Tower eight looks to the greenery of Jardine's Lookout. The other towers have a garden view and each unit has a balcony.

The larger units of about 2,220 sq ft with view sell for more than HK$12 million and rent for about HK$55,000 per month inclusive. The smallest units of 1,600 sq ft sell for about HK$9 million and rent for about HK$45,000.

Another quality development is Monterey Court at 47 Perkins Road. Two 1,710 sq ft flats are available for a monthly rent of HK$40,000 to HK$44,000. Both have been renovated and have three bedrooms, an ensuite and a maid's room. There are no balconies, but there is a view of Jardine's Lookout and the scenic lifts.

'This building is quite famous because it is quite unique, because of the size and the surroundings,' Mr Lau said. 'People like the greenery and the mountain view.'

He said one property that was 'not very special, but very cheap' - and still in demand again because of its size - was the former government quarters at 111 Mount Butler Road. Flats here rent for between HK$37,750 and HK$42,450 per month, exclusive of management fees.

At a roomy 2,750 sq ft, they make a very attractive rental proposition, each comprising three large bedrooms, huge bathrooms, a balcony and a carpark.

'The surroundings are quiet, as it is the only building in the area,' Mr Lau said.

'It's not that convenient as you have to get there by car or minibus, and the decoration is quite simple and definitely not deluxe. However, because it is spacious and quiet this building is especially attractive to foreigners.'

Another large apartment block in the vicinity is Elm Tree Tower at 8-10 Chun Fai Road, where units measuring 2,028 to 3,291 sq ft sell from HK$9.5 million to HK$30 million and rent from HK$31,000 to HK$38,000 per month. The complex has a pool and a squash court.

Butler Tower at 1-5 Boyce Road is an older development, built 28 years ago. Harder to market because of their age, the flats of 1,580 sq ft to 1,750 sq ft sell for HK$7.7 million to HK$9.5 million and rent for a monthly HK$38,000 to HK$40,000.

Mr Lau said that as new buildings replaced the old in surrounding areas, Jardine's Lookout had been somewhat insulated.

'Residents might get an impression of having a bit more prestige, of being a bit quieter, and the price reflects this.'

Next week: Shouson Hill

Graphic: PRO24Agwz