[imagesource: Propert24]

Quaint. Charming.

In need of a loving touch. A fixer-upper.

Investment opportunity. Charming.

All terms we have grown used to hearing when it comes to Cape Town real estate but this Property24 listing in Rondebosch is taking things to the next level.

Situated on Lover’s Walk, the listing states the house has three bedrooms. Technically, it might, but are we really going to play this game?

Come on, let’s venture inside:

I love the natural light that filters through.

You can just about make out a kitchen and bathroom:

The term real estate agents are using with this one is “restoration opportunity”:

A rare find in this secluded and elevated valley in Upper Rondebosch close to UCT Middle Campus and the Baxter Theatre with quick access on to the M3. Situated on a corner 1011m2 plot with lovely established trees, views of the mountain and forested park on UCT Middle Campus, the original Victorian homestead, built circa 1902, was severely fire damaged in July 2018. Some remnants of the structure are still intact, including the beautiful front verandah…

The seller has a number of approvals in place such as Council and Heritage approved plans for a single storey dwelling as well as double storey plans approved by Heritage only. There are structural engineers’ reports and plans on file and all structural issues have been resolved.

A huge amount of work has been done on the floors, walls, structural bracing and roof.

Sheesh, what did it look like before?

I get it – there’s both the historical appeal (the home was once part of the old Rustenburg farm which was consolidated into Cecil John Rhodes’ Groote Schuur Estate) and the location.

1 011 square-metre properties in upper Rondebosch don’t hit the market very often. But you’re spending millions either fixing this up (not likely) or bashing it down, so the R4,2 million price is just the starting point.

Restoration no, demolition yes. Perhaps it’s worth the hassle if you build some student digs and wedge them in.

The listing finishes by adding that “all approvals and architects plans to be provided to the new fortunate owner of this very special site”.

Given my extensive perusing of Property24 listings, I can confirm this is special.

[source:property24]