Australian influencer and entrepreneur Karina Irby has capitalised on a lucrative property deal, selling a beachfront apartment on Queensland's Gold Coast for an impressive sum. The sale has resulted in a significant financial gain for the business founder, though it previously attracted criticism from her online followers.
A Lucrative Real Estate Move
The 35-year-old founder of the Moana Bikini brand sold the two-bedroom, one-bathroom flat for a cool $1.45 million. This transaction yielded a substantial profit of $250,000, as Irby had initially purchased the property in 2024 for $1.2 million. The apartment is situated within the Fletcher Building, a block dating back to the 1970s that boasts prime views over the famous Currumbin Beach.
Since its purchase, the property had been leased out to tenants, with the most recent occupants paying $850 per week in rent. The flat's desirable location is a key selling point, being just a stone's throw from the sand. It features an open-plan layout, a covered balcony with ocean views, and a bonus downstairs storage or studio space.
Controversy and Online Backlash
The property first made headlines back in April 2024, shortly after Irby acquired it. In a video shared with her Instagram followers, the influencer jokingly claimed she had 'accidentally-kind-of-on-purpose' bought the investment pad. She expressed mock surprise at having two mortgages, questioning her own 'adulting' skills and remarking that she could see the property from her bed.
This light-hearted approach, however, did not sit well with many of her followers. The video was published amidst a deepening cost-of-living crisis, and the tone was criticised as being insensitive. One person commented, 'Imagine being so rich you 'accidentally' buy an investment property?', while others pointed out the struggles many face in simply affording rent and food.
Another critic, who identified as a fellow investor, challenged the narrative, stating it was 'entirely false to pretend that you didn't make this purchase with significant deliberation' and that it was 'legally not possible' to buy a home by accident.
Sealing a Profitable Deal
Despite the initial controversy, the recent sale has proven to be a financially astute move for the entrepreneur. The $250,000 profit demonstrates a strong return on her initial investment in a relatively short period. The transaction underscores the continued demand for well-located real estate on Queensland's holiday coast, even for properties in older building blocks like the Fletcher Building.
