HOME buyers have a rare chance of owning a piece of Murwillumbah history with several prominent and historical homes on the market.

Three federation homes of historical significance in Murwillumbah are up for sale at the same time.

Elders Murwillumbah real estate agent Drew Wade said the homes were unique and it was unusual to have a few on the market at the same time.

"One that we have on the market has been through a few hands in the past 10 years, but before that it was with a family for about 80 years," Mr Wade said.

"Another has been a family home for about 40 years.

"There aren't a large number of federation homes in this area that are in such good condition.

"These were homes that were almost derelict."

Mr Wade said the homes had been on the market for some time, but the owners were not considering an auction.

"Auctions don't work particularly well around here," Mr Wade said.

"Auctions just don't get the traffic.

"I think there is about a 30% clearance rate."

The home at 2 Bent St, Murwillumbah has been owned by only three families since its construction 106 years ago.

"It's the highest address you can get in Murwillumbah," Mr Wade said.

The home at 56 Condong St has not been fully re- stored but retains all the original features. It has been owned by the same family for more than 60 years.

The home at 33 Prince St, Murwillumbah, has been restored from an almost derelict condition.

Quick Facts

• The Federation period lasted from about 1890 to 1915.
• Known elsewhere as Edwardian, named for the reign of King Edward VII.
• The term 'Federation architecture' was coined during the late 1960s.
• The style has elements of Queen Ann and Edwardian influence.