In with the Old

A new house is always attractive, especially to young buyers. It offers an open page to be written on; there is no imprint of other lives. It is ready to record a new identity without trappings of the past.

On the other hand, an old house has stood the test of time, has settled into its neighbourhood, and has the kind of character and quirkiness you'll never find in a new house - not to mention larger rooms, bigger cupboards, and genuine Oregon pine or parquet flooring. When you investigate the option of buying an old house, while making sure to do your homework by keeping a wary eye out for standard checks on electrical, plumbing, and wood borer, you'll find the benefits are numerous.

Location: Invariably older houses are built closer to the city, a result of the slow organic growth of suburbia. This means they will be far more convenient travel-wise, and also closer to all amenities such as theatres and long-established restaurants, parks, bus routes, train stations, schools and universities, many of which may be within walking distance. And an old house is usually found in an older, more established area where there are unlikely to be huge disruptive developments such as shopping centres or apartment blocks knocking out the sunlight and generally getting very much up your nose.

Durability: The joy of an old house is that even if it needs some repair, it is going to withstand renovations and still emerge looking solid and safe. The old craftsmanship cannot be shaken, and the well-built fireplaces are nearly always in fair working order after even a hundred years. Front doors are set back and well-protected from the weather. And the days of cheap accessories had not been invented. Sure, there'll be some wear and tear, but nothing that can't be revitalised or even replaced with more modern conveniences without disturbing the sturdiness of the structure.

Plot size: An old house usually has a good size garden to go with it. Small and crowded densification was not in the vocabulary of its time. There was plenty of land to go around and it was ably used, which means there's room to extend if you have grand plans. Space means more privacy in your yard, greater areas for entertainment, or room to put in a pool or even a tennis court. If you have pets, there's nothing they like better than a bit of space to roam.

Biggest expenses: You may have to lay out some money with regard to rewiring, replumbing old pipes, and reroofing. But this is all work that improves your property and strengthens its value. Opening up rooms with French doors, wider windows and sunny patios are all possibilities that help imprint an old house as your own. Updating bathrooms and kitchens is another engagement which may take some spending. But an old house renewed is bigger, stronger and ultimately more valuable than its younger counterparts further out of the city.

Lower costs: And remember, if you see the promise of renovation in an old house, you are also in a position to negotiate a better bargain price-wise. What you save on the swings, you can spend on the merry-go-round. And your old house will very likely still outdo a newer one in location, value and convenience.

Good investment: Old homes are increasing in value because they are largely disappearing under more modern constructions. But old-fashioned style never loses its appeal. Talk to people with similarly aged homes in the area and find out how property values have been affected.

Moving in: An advantage in buying an older house is that it comes complete - and unless you are planning to renovate straightaway, you can move in with all the mod-cons already established. Buying a new house often means waiting for developers to finish or for simple expectations, such as taps, to be put in place, or a lawn to grow. With a new house you have no idea what problems may await you, whereas with an old house problems are more obvious and the previous owner will know its history and be expected to point out any issues.

Charm and character: Old houses carry their own identity and atmosphere. Sometimes new owners fall in love with exactly that, before they consider anything else; keeping the look and feel of an old home may tie in with their furniture and lifestyle exactly. Never overlook the emotional feel of an old house. The original builders' attention to detail is usually very evident. New houses have often been built in a hurry and tend to look alike in style and colour, which for those who prefer the moody mellow of an old house, may seem too bland.

Do it your way - renovation potential: A quick eye can usually tell how you might change your old house to be a little more modern and comfortable. Adding rooms, bathrooms, etc, can improve the overall look of the house, and add to its value.

Established neighbourhood: Old houses are invariably found in long-established neighbourhoods, and often among neighbours who have been there for many years. This means they are usually quiet and respectful of others' privacy. In a neighbourhood that is deemed historic, you are likely to experience quiet elegance and charm with well-developed community facilities.

Established garden: An old house usually comes with a well-established garden. Mature trees are supported by lawns and herbaceous borders. You may see a way to make your garden into a more vibrant space through fresh design and the addition of new plants, but the structure is already prepared and there is much that you may be able to use as a base while keeping a sense of space and useful shade.

The Leapfrog Property Group

Leapfrog Property Group offers a fresh and innovative approach to buying, selling, renting and property investments, ensuring the best property deals for clients across South Africa. Our agents are qualified, trained, experienced; our approach bold and spirited, driven by heart, generosity and honesty. It is our mission to advise, eliminate obstacles and save you unnecessary expense. Trust is our watchword. And value our motto. Armed with our combined credentials, we are the bright face of excellence in the South African market.