Heritage21

Heritage21 is a team of professional heritage property consultants & advisors dedicated to provide all round heritage advice for cultural heritage conservation.

Wednesday 2 August 2017

Heritage Buildings - Are They Worth to Buy?

Most people cringe when they hear the word “heritage” in association with the “property for sale.” What is the problem with properties which are heritage listed and located in a conservation area? In this article, I am going to explain the misconceptions of the people about the heritage listed properties and their truths.

Are Heritage listed houses sold at cheaper rates than other houses?

For this, you need to find a real estate agent who can guarantee this assumption. The buyer of a heritage listed home usually knows that the property they are going to buy or already have purchased comes under the conservation area, so they will be prepared to take on the responsibility of preserving the heritage value of the property.
 
Heritage Impact Assessments
 
Heritage listed properties or the properties in a conservation area, can't be renovated?

It’s not true. The heritage houses and other building can be renovated to make the life in comfortable. Even though, it is possible to undertake suitably designed renovations to make it more attractive. But before any restoration work done, you have to get the Cultural Heritage Assessment from local conservationist, and then you have to get the prior permission from the local authorities. There could be scope to add another storey in the building too. I recommend you liaise with your local Council for more assistance.

There are some tips I am going to share for more on this topic. Under the Heritage Impact Assessments, you are proposing to renovate some areas as well as repaint a house which is located in a conservation area; you will need prior approval from the local Council authorities. 
 
Cultural Heritage Assessment
 
Five Tips for home owners and home buyers:

If someone owns or is considering buying a house which is located in a heritage conservation area or heritage listed, I usually proposed to them with the following advice.

1. The local Council Authorities will assess any future proposed renovations based on planning controls, plus its heritage value. They will examine and make a Cultural Heritage Assessments and advice you what you can do and what you can't do with your property.

2. Before buying a traditional property, you need to check the 149 Zoning Certificate which forms part of the agreement of sale to test the heritage status of the property. The local Council Authorities will not provide any advice on whether a building is a heritage listed over the phone and also they will not provide any zoning information as well.

3. Heritage Impact Assessments does not rule out any modifications; it mainly limits you to doing what you want.

4. Any future renovation and modifications need to be understanding of the character of the house and the surrounding area.

5. If you are considering for renovating your heritage property, you should liaise with either a heritage architect or a planner with experience in heritage properties. On the other hand, your local Council can also advise you an expert to discuss your proposal with them.