Property developers, Virtical, has exchanged contracts with MA Financial Group to acquire iconic Sydney venues Kinselas Hotel and Courthouse Hotel in Taylor Square, Darlinghurst in a combined transaction of $61 million.

The deal is the latest acquisition for Virtical, a private property developer which has also recently purchased the Republic Hotel, on the corner of Bridge and Pitt Streets, Sydney, and the Adelphi Hotel in Flinders Lane, Melbourne. These deals take Virtical’s recent acquisitions to over $120 million in combined value.

Nick Lower and Tony Bargwanna of Savills Australia brokered the sale of the assets.

Viritcal Development is a company with over 50 years’ experience controlling an existing $500 million diversified portfolio of assets with significant repositioning or redevelopment opportunity.

Vitical’s Managing Director Mark Toma said; “We’re delighted with the acquisition. The addition of the Taylor Square hotels complements our broader strategy for the assets in our portfolio. We have a strong track record in the construction and development across various real estate sectors, including hospitality projects and we’re well positioned to realise the potential of the precinct.”

The two adjoining hotels were acquired by MA Financial’s MA Taylor Square Fund in December 2020 and they took possession of the venues prior to the second COVID-19 lockdown in July 2021. The Taylor Square Fund sought to take advantage of the consolidated site through repositioning and potentially redeveloping the iconic site into a significantly expanded hospitality offering.

Commenting on the sale, Chris Unger, Managing Director, of MA Financial’s hospitality platform, said: “The original investment strategy was dependent upon favourable trading conditions emerging from the first COVID lockdown, and the anticipated resurgence of Oxford Street following the repeal of the city’s lockout laws. However, the precinct and surrounding area has taken an extended period of time to revitalise.

“Whilst we are confident the precinct will thrive over the longer term, this combined with changes in the construction and funding markets has meant the timeframes associated with redeveloping the iconic site now sit outside of the fund’s remaining term .  Accordingly, we have decided to sell the assets to Virtical, which has the opportunity to pursue its own repositioning strategy on a different timeline and as part of a broader portfolio.”

Speaking on the deal, Nick Lower, State Director, Hotels at Savills Australia said, “The sale of Taylors Square, comprising the iconic Kinselas and Courthouse pubs, underscrores the appeal of well-located operational pubs with solid property fundamentals.

“Virtical's acquisition of this prime property showcases their commitment to enhancing Sydney's hospitality scene. Their reputation for adding premium opportunities to their portfolio is a testament to their vision and expertise."

Tony Bargwanna, National Director – Hotels at Savills Australia added, “This transaction is a clear indication of the ongoing confidence in Sydney’s pub market.  It reflects the strong demand for assets that offer both operational success and the potential for future growth.

“The Kinsela and Courthouse has long been cherished by local and surrounding community alike.  This transaction ensures the continuation of their legacy under Virtical’s capable stewardship.”

To request a sales analysis please contact the selling agents Nick Lower and Tony Bargwanna of Savills Australia via the below contact details.

Related Reading:

Iconic Sydney CBD hotel The Republic sold for circa $40m - JLL & Savills

Melbourne’s iconic Adelphi Hotel sold for $25m to Sydney developer - JLL & CVA

Sydney’s grand dame of Oxford St sold after 30 Years - HTL Property

Click here to view: more articles of New South Wales Pubs and Taverns recently listed for sale and sold

Click here to view: more articles of Australian Pubs and Taverns recently listed for sale and sold