Pre-war homes (built before 1947) with a traditional building character home overlay are called character homes - my understanding is that they can't be removed/ altered. These houses are in a prime location within 10km radius of Brisbane city, but some of them come at a good price. Do you think they will appreciate in value? Are they worth the repairs and headaches that come with them?
Thoughts please!!
Pre-War Home in Brisbane - Worth Purchasing?
Falconjack on 26/10/2019 - 18:28
Comments
Just keep the asbestos damp while you're working on it.
That's a very good point re: asbestos
Almost every house built before the 1980s have a ACM.
make that 1990
When people say pre-war, they usually seem to mean world war 2, which ended in 1945. So, 1947 would be post-war, wouldn't it?
Pre WW3
Yes correct, but the definition here considers it to be before 1947
Takes a while for news to travel to the colonies.
They mean it was subject to carpet bombing raids.
Not everyone wants a new home. Some love the character and history of old homes and are willing to put up with the shortcomings.
Pretty much all home go up in value. It’s not about the actual house, it is about the location.
It will only not be allowed to be removed or altered if it is under a heritage order. If it is not under a heritage order, it would only rely on council approval for alterations or removal.
As long as there are no major structural defects, like termites of sinking foundations it would normally not be a bad investment. However, you have some concerns so maybe an old house is not for you, they are better suited to people who can build and make their own repairs.
The biggest reason I would never live in or own one of those old homes is the lack of security, particularly with windows which don't even have fly screens! And the ghosts.
Depends on the area in Brisbane, and how much effort you’re willing to put into it. Look st other houses on this street and nearby. See what they’ve done to theirs and if you’d like to do similar. Work out the costings, and some headaches and make a decision. Old homes come with good bones.
Agree with the asbestos comments in that it’s an expensive part of a renovation (removing it) if you bother. Most houses in Brisbane have asbestos in them. Pre-1947 May only have in bathroom and/or kitchen. The fibrobisnt going to harm you as long as you DONT remove it or drill/saw into it yourself. Check windows and not prolly no mosquito mesh. Also check roof insulation quality/presence as these can get hot in a bris summer.
For me, pre-war homes mean asbestos. A lot of people said if you leave it sealed properly, it is ok. But I am not the careful type and I repair the walls in my house maybe once a year from small scrapes and holes.