Hedonic approaches to estimating the impacts of open spaces: A case study in the Cape

Abstract

Preliminary desktop studies have been carried out to illustrate the potential value of metropolitan open space areas in Durban and Cape Town using speculative estimates derived mainly from values in the international literature. This paper investigates the effects that a selected open space (Zandvlei in Muizenberg) has on nearby property values and attaches values to the space using a combination of estate agent interviews and statistical analysis (hedonic pricing). The results indicate that using statistical analysis generates reasonably similar valuation estimates when compared to the use of estate agent interviews. The property price premiums or discounts associated with open spaces are found to be case specific, but certain trends are discernable that should apply to all areas. Finally, the strengths and weaknesses of the property price approach are discussed.