For decades, the Miliado family’s three-acre property in Salisbury, Adelaide, stood as a rare green sanctuary in a rapidly urbanising suburb. Purchased in the 1950s, the land was once surrounded by open fields. As development surged around them, modern homes began to fill the landscape—but the Miliado family remained steadfast, honouring their late parents’ wishes to never sell.
The original 1955-built three-bedroom home and its large shed remained untouched, offering a nostalgic glimpse into mid-century suburban life. Over time, the family’s quiet resistance became a symbol of heritage and resilience within the community.
But after their parents’ passing, emotional fatigue and financial realities eventually led the family to list the property for sale.
Initially valued at AUD 3.6 million, the land sparked a bidding war among 20 eager developers, ultimately selling for more than AUD 6 million at auction.
While the sale brought financial relief, it also marked the close of a deeply personal chapter. Real estate agent Tom Hector acknowledged the family’s emotional struggle, emphasising that selling had never been part of their parents’ vision.
Located close to schools and shopping precincts, the land is now set to be transformed into a modern residential enclave—part of Adelaide’s ongoing urban growth.
The Miliado family’s story reflects a broader dilemma faced by many: the tension between preserving family legacy and adapting to the pressures of a changing cityscape.
