In South African real estate, “older homes” are generally classified as those built before 1990 while “vintage” or “antique” homes fall into the pre-1920s era.
There are many examples of both in Gqeberha, which is not surprising given the city’s storied history.
It is widely accepted that Victoria House at No 31 Constitution Hill in Central was the first house constructed in the city.
The home, built by 1820 Settler Jonathan Board in around 1825, motivated others to follow suit. The trend was encouraged by Sir Rufane Donkin who, according to Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism, was offering plots for sale to fresh-off-the-boat newcomers.
Some of these original homes, particularly in the suburbs of Central and Richmond Hill, have stood the test of time and remain occupied to this day.
A large proportion of Gqeberha’s houses fall into the pre-1990 category, but that does not mean they should be seen as having less value.
This was the message Remax estate agent Alan Moore constantly relayed to his clients, particularly younger buyers who might be tempted to give more seasoned properties a miss.
One of his fondest memories was moving into a “dilapidated” old house in Fifth Avenue, Walmer, in 1991 with his new bride Joanne.
“I remember my father saying, ‘You’re mad, it’s an absolute tip’. But we loved that house,” he said.
“We fell in love with its position, garden and entertainment options. We were young and energised and we could see ourselves turning this old ship around.”
And so they did.
The couple proceeded to sub-divide the plot and sold that erf for development purposes. They made a “really good” profit that contributed to covering the costs of their move to Cape Town.
“I always remind sellers that just because their homes were last renovated in the 80s or 90s doesn’t mean that they will get throwaway prices,” Moore said.
It is important, however, that they make every effort to spruce up their house before inviting prospective buyers in.
The key to preparing an older property for sale is to make sure that buyers are greeted by a home that is uncluttered, spotlessly clean and with all problem areas addressed.
“You don’t have to be an interior designer – just make the home appear clean and functional. If the hinges on your kitchen cupboards are hanging, get someone to help you fix them.”
Sellers should not neglect the importance of kerb appeal – as it is known in the industry – either. A home may have had a complete makeover on the inside but if it looks shabby on the outside people will be put off from exploring further.
Moore said giving a home kerb appeal did not have to cost an arm and a leg either.
“You do things in a short space of time. You can paint the front wall and clean up the hedges quite easily.”
He discovered this for himself at his own home after inheriting a huge garden from the previous owner that needed a “major clean-up”.
“I am not a gardener but now when I look at my house from the street I think, ‘Wow!’”
Such changes, while simple, could have a huge impact on a buyer’s sensory perception of a property, Moore said.
He added that sellers should be aware that half-renovated homes were not in great demand. A newish kitchen installation, for example, will more than likely be ripped out by the new owner as it does not necessarily fit their vision.
An interesting point Moore made was how sellers of older homes could work around the expense of an electrical wiring certificate, which is a legal requirement.
“Recently, I sold an old house where the cost of the wiring certificate was R25 000. People don’t have that kind of money lying around.”
He suggested getting a quotation from electrical specialist as the inspection could cost as little as R500.
“This way you can factor in the cost of the certificate before the house is sold, which helps you to establish your price.”
Once the problems have been identified, a contractor can do the necessary work and then send his or her invoice to the conveyancing attorney. The latter will deduct the cost from the proceeds of the sale.