APKF MD WARNS:  IF YOU ARE PLANNING RENOVATIONS TO A HOME CHECK ITS AGE, IT MAY BE CLASSED AS ‘HISTORIC’

As several spokespeople for the residential property marketing sector have recently pointed out, there has been a swing away from selling homes to upgrading them by renovating.  Those not forced to sell now are holding onto them in anticipation of a rise in prices in 12 to 18 months time – or sooner.

 Those buying property with a view to renovating and upgrading it should, says Lanice Steward, MD of Anne Porter Knight Frank, check the property’s age.  If it is over 60 years old, any alteration to it has to have the approval of the Heritage Resources Agency.  

 “Many owners,” said Steward, “are aware that an historic home cannot be changed without Heritage’s approval.  What they do not realise is that in terms of the legislation any home built in or before 1948 is now an historic home.”

 The 1946 to 1948 era, said Steward, saw many returning servicemen getting government grants to build homes and new suburbs like Pinelands experienced a huge upswing in building as a result.

 “Those simple, unpretentious homes are often ideal for a makeover – but do take care to get the HRA’s go-ahead,” said Steward.  

For further information contact Lanice Steward on 021 671 9120 or email lanice@anneporter.co.za.