Historic buildings still up for sale

TWO historic Berea properties which went up for auction recently have yet to be sold.

The former Berea Presbyterian Church building and grounds went on auction on 2 June and the property at 183 Problem Mkhize (Cowey) Road went under the hammer on 14 July, but according to representatives from In2assets Property Specialists, neither properties were snapped up by buyers.

Selvi Howitz, a representative from In2assets Property Specialists, said: “We are still marketing the Berea Presbyterian Church property and taking prospective buyers to view in the hope that we can receive an offer close to the mandate price, which we will then present to the seller.”

The Berea Presbyterian building is currently owned by a man who bought the property and neighbouring residential house after it went on sale in 2012. The church is still in tact as it is a historical monument, but there are still many rooms to utilise, as well as the seven-bedroom house in Lena Ahrens Road.

Howitz said the church is zoned as a place of worship (religious), although it could be used for a variety of purposes.

Scott McNair, business development executive from In2assets Property Specialists, said: the sale of the property at 183 Problem Mkhize (Cowey) Road did not go through and he was still looking for a buyer.

The building at 183 Problem Mkhize (Cowey) Road is a typical colonial style residence with high ceilings, large verandahs and beautiful garden and is a heritage property.

“Although originally a residential home, the property has been converted for commercial use and is currently being used as a fine arts college. The building could also be used as offices and the setting would also lend itself to conversion to a boutique hotel or conference venue,” he said.

McNair said AMAFA approval will be required for any construction work carried out on site.

He said there had been good interest in the property and potential buyers included a college, lawyers and various other business people.

For information on the properties, contact Selvi Howitz on showitz@in2assets.com or Scott McNair on smcnair@in2assets.com