Rawson property lifestyle edition 1st ed october

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE SILVERLAKES MOOIKLOOF & OLYMPUS

Pitfalls of Buying & Selling

8 Tips for Finding your Dream Rental

Privately Leeuwenhof Estate

OUT & ABOUT IN PRETORIA

Featured Property

PROP SPACE Silver Stream Estate

www.rawson.co.za

Silver Stream Estate is situated in the upmarket area of Silverlakes in the East of Pretoria and comprises 165 full-title homes and a few upmarket homes.

The Estate is very secure and offers a tranquil lifestyle and is close to all amenities.

A sparkling stream runs through the beautiful park that offers a play area and picnic spots for the whole family.

Fishing opportunities are also available on a catch-andrelease system.

The Farm Inn borders the estate and offers an A-laCarte restaurant and various other activities .

Should you want to travel a little further Nkwe Pleasure Resort is a short drive down Graham Road, and is teaming with bird life. Enjoy scenic walks through quiet and peaceful valleys or enjoy a braai at the picnic spots.

The upmarket Hazeldean Square Shopping Centre is literally 2 kilometers away, and offers 42 stores for your shopping convenience. Stores include Pick ‘n Pay, Woolworths, Virgin Active gym and a Medical Centre. Life Hospital is close by.

Architectural guidelines and regulations are strictly administered in this stunning Estate, and all building plans and additions have to be approved by the Home Owners Association.

If you are looking for secure tranquil surroundings, close to nature and all amenities, including upmarket schools and Colleges, then Silver Stream is the Estate for you.

Contact one of our neighbourhood experts to view available properties.

LET RAWSON TAKE YOU HOME

ABOUT US

Rawson Properties Mooikloof www.rawson.co.za FRANCHISEE Sharon Merle McComb

sharon.mccomb@rawson.co.za

076 400 1388 FRANCHISEE Bradley McComb

bradley.mccomb@rawson.co.za

084 240 6287

SALES TEAM Chane van der Merwe chane.vdmerwe@rawson.co.za 062 355 6995 David van Coller david.vancoller@rawson.co.za 082 425 7458 Desire Eloff desire.eloff@rawson.co.za 083 709 9528 Carla van Coller carla.vancoller@rawson.co.za 083 227 5880 Faith Chinyayi faith.chinyayi@rawson.co.za 073 611 7621 Lloyd Matare lloyd.matare@rawson.co.za 081 813 2236 Zandria Vice zandria.vice@rawson.co.za 061 047 0936 Candice Jackson candice.jackson@rawson.co.za 072 641 2469 OFFICE DETAILS TEL: (012)809-2029 FAX: (012)809-2445

Shop 5, Hazeldean Square Cnr Graham & Silver Lakes Rds Silverlakes Pretoria 0081

PUBLISHER 2Luni Media

Greetings and a warm welcome to our very first issue of The Rawson Lifestyle Magazine!

When we set out to create an on-line Property magazine, one thing we agreed on right away was to steer away from the standard printed magazines that only feature properties.

What you WILL find in the pages of the Rawson Lifestyle Magazine is a collection of informative articles, useful links, community information and a whole lot more that we know will delight our readers.

Our business is to help people buy, sell and rent property. In doing this, we put our hearts into your homes.

Warm regards THE TEAM

CONTENTS MEET THE TEAM AT RAWSON MOOIKLOOF Agents of the Month PROPERTIES FOR SALE Buying from a Private Seller? What can go Wrong?

RAWSON PROPERTY FINANCE FEATURED SOLE MANDATE SOLE MANDATES PROPERTIES FOR SALE RENTALS The Pros and Cons of Furnishing an Investment Property FEATURED RENTAL PROPERTY TOP RENTALS PROPERTIES TO RENT 8 Tips for Finding your Dream Rental HAPPY AT HOME What will your Insurance be Worth in 2021 – INDWE RISK SERVICES First Impressions – Fantastic Front Gardens Colouring Your Life with Yellow DIY Terrariums to Create at Home Sleepathon Challenge OUT & ABOUT Ant Bear Lodge – Drakensburg Sunflower Annual Banquet Barnyard Theatre Shows RAWSON OUTREACH Recognising Pain in Your Pets Every Pet need a Forever Home Rawson Mooikloof Supporting Sunflower Day Hope Begins With You

MEET THE TEAM

Sharon McComb

Sharon is one of our passionate franchise owners here at Rawson Mooikloof. Being a professional photographer she is responsible for the stunning photography you see advertised. She is also responsible for our office management, new staff acquisition and customer queries (to name a few).

Rest assured your property will shine brighter than the rest with our stunning sun set photography!

Chane Van Der Merwe

Chane is responsible for a multitude of tasks at Rawson Mooikloof and tackles each task with absolute competence and enthusiasm. Her cheerful sunny disposition has earned her the respect and popularity of both clients and staff alike and she always makes the time to assist in any way she is able despite her workload. Chane is your neighbourhood expert for Leeuwenhof Estate in Silverlakes and also assists with rentals throughout the Pretoria area.

Bradley McComb

Bradley is one of our dynamic franchise owners here at Rawson Mooikloof. He is also our sales manager and is personally responsible for sales in the Silver Lakes area.

Bradley’s hands on approach and out of the box thinking have helped him build (literally brick by brick) our Rawson Mooikloof office. He is above all dedicated to the growth and nurturing of new agents and is working towards a different kind of office – vibrant, dynamic, forward thinking and customer centric.

David van Coller

David is one of our dedicated sale/rental partners here at Rawson Mooikloof. His attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction has ensured that he always provides a top notch service to his clients.

Zandria Vice

Zandria is our vibrant Property Management Agent here at Rawson Mooikloof. Her exceptional people skills and dedication to excellence has ensured that both our tenants and landlords are always well looked after.

He is responsible for Sales in the Olympus area with a heavy focus on Heron Hill Garden Estate. He is also responsible for rentals through out Pretoria East. A real area specialist!

Her fresh outlook and out of the box thinking has allowed for innovative solutions to even the most complex issues.

Desire Eloff

Lloyd Matare

Desire has hit the ground running right from the start here at Rawson Mooikloof.

Her positive attitude and dedication to excellence has seen her sky rocket right to the top, impressing everyone she has come into contact with.

Desire is responsible for sales and rentals in the Mooikloof area, with a focus on Mooikloof Ridge.

Lloyd has hit the ground running here at Rawson Mooikloof, putting in the yards right from the offset. He is a natural people's person and takes pride in absolutely everything he does. His 'go getter' attitude and willingness to go the extra mile has put him in a good light with all of his clients.

Lloyd is responsible for sales in Faerie Glen and Wapadrand and rentals through out Pretoria.

Faith Chinyayi

Faith is our articulate corporate New Business Development Agent. She is well educated and exudes a quiet confidence making her a shoe in for our corporate relations. She is responsible for contacting and developing business with embassies and executive relocation firms.

Faith is also responsible for the procurement of high end furnished or unfurnished units suitable for her clientele.

Carla van Coller Carla's calm nature and systematic, calculated approach has put her clients minds at ease and ensured positive feedback from all. She is responsible for Sales in Lombardy and Savannah Country Estate. She is our sectional title specialist in the Silver Lakes and surrounding areas.

Make Carla an asset to you as she has been to Rawson Mooikloof

AGENTS OF THE MONTH BRADLEY & CHANE

EACH EDITION WILL FEATURE OUR TOP AGENTS OF THE MONTH

Buying from a private seller?

What can go wrong?

Let’s be honest, most home sellers would prefer not to pay commission to their estate agent at all; and there are some who try to avoid this at all costs by selling their homes privately.

Brian Hickson, Jawitz Properties’ Midrand franchisee principal, says that buying or selling a property does not only amount to the exchange of cash. Instead, he says, there are stringent legal requirements and procedures that have to be adhered to, not to mention a strict code of ethics that estate agents have to abide by. Estate agents have to be registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB) and have to be suitably qualified. This would, however, not apply to an individual selling a property.

Buyers, have you considered these pitfalls?

1.

As a buyer, you need to be aware of biased contracts that could favour the seller.

2.

It is in your interest to deal with an agent who works in the area and who can advise on current market trends. He/she will also be able to protect the interests of both seller and buyer, not only during the sale, but throughout the transfer process.

3.

Hidden defects in the home could easily be overlooked, resulting in expensive repairs at a later stage. An agent would be able to spot them, or at least ask the owner pertinent questions about them.

4.

Loopholes in the sales agreement may be detrimental to the buyer further down the line. Contracts often contain unrealistic requirements regarding the period allowed to secure a loan or to effect transfer, which would place the deal, and the buyer’s deposit, at risk.

5.

If there is no provision for fittings in the offer to purchase, a seller could abscond with blinds, carpets, stoves and the like.

Buyers browsing their local newspaper or online portals such as Property24, Gumtree or Private Property, will find sellers going commando. And while it can be done, if their business is not property they may just end up wasting your time and inadvertently delaying the sale altogether – leaving you disappointed and out of pocket.

Selling your own home might save you money in the short term by cutting out the estate agent’s commission, but marketing and advertising are costly and time-consuming, and you will potentially lose more money for every extra week your home sits on the market.

1.

Estate agencies have long-term relationships with the property media and buy space in bulk.

They are therefore able to negotiate reasonable advertising rates on your behalf.

2.

A credit check needs to be done to minimise the risk of the deal falling through should the buyer not be able to afford the property.

3.

An agent can draw up an offer to purchase inclusive of all aspects of the sale. This will not only look after your interests, as the client, but also those of the buyer.

4.

An offer to purchase agreement is often couched in legalese making the content difficult to interpret. A qualified estate agent will always be on hand to take you through the document and explain any clause that is not fully understood.

5.

During the transfer phase, you would need a transferring attorney. Due to estate agencies working with transferring attorneys on a daily basis, a reputable firm could be recommended, if required

Can you afford that bond?

Rawson Properties can help Rawson Finance has made an Affordability Table available to all their agencies so that you can easily check on your bond affordability amount, which may be a great help prior to signing an offer.

We simply work with your gross income, single or joint, and look up the bond you should be able to afford. This is the “rule of thumb” through banking institutions as the bond application hits their scoring platform.

Rawson Properties can do a FULL pre-qualification, with a Credit Report in order to achieve a more accurate indication of the bond qualification amount.

RAWSON FINANCE simplifies your ‘Home Shopping’ experience

SOLE MANDATE OF THE MONTH

SOLE MANDATES Newmark Estate - Silverlakes

R2 900 000 Stunning 3 bedroom home This lovely home is looking for a new family to complete it and make many joyful memories. There are 2 spacious tiled bedrooms with a full bathroom to share. The master bedroom boasts a relaxing and calming atmosphere with loads of space, and a full en-suite bathroom.

Bradley McComb – 084 240 6287

For more information

Leeuwenhof Estate - Silverlakes

R2 800 000 Unique family home Gorgeous 3 bed double storey in popular Leeuwenhof Estate (East of Pretoria). This unique home is an architectural masterpiece, very spacious with plenty of interesting features. Sparkling pool in private garden.

Chane vd Merwe – 062 355 6995

For more information

Wapadrand

R2 570 000 Impeccable family home If you are looking for a safe family home with an array of entertainment areas and elegant finishes, look no further!

Well maintained garden, double garages and an inviting pool this is a dream.

David van Coller - 082 425 7458

For more information

FOR SALE Silver Stream

R2 200 000

Mooikloof Ridge

3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom duplex – Silver Ridge

Stunning 2 bedroom apartment

Bradley Mccomb – 084 240 6287

Desire Eloff – 083 7099 528

Olympus

R997 600

2 Bedroom townhouse in a secure estate

David van Coller - 082 425 7458

Silverlakes

Leeuwenhof

R 998 000

R2 800 000

Stylish 4 bed, 3 bath house

Chane vd Merwe – 062 355 6995

R 2 800 000

Out of Bounds

R450 000

Contemporary 3 bedroom home

Stylish bachelor apartment

Chane vd Merwe – 062 355 6995

Chane vd Merwe – 062 355 6995

VIEW MORE PROPERTIES

See what Rawson finance can do for you Rawson Finance: offers you a one stop all-in-one home ownership solution. We’ll get you bond offers from the top lenders and handle all the nitty gritty..

Bond repayment calculator Not sure what you can afford? Try our bond calculator !

Transfer cost calculator Rawson can help you crunch the numbers.

Become a sales partner Join the family and South Africa’s fourth largest real estate brand.

Request a free property valuation Whether you are ready to sell or just curious to know what your property is worth, a Rawson valuation is for you.

Rental services for landlords With 30 years experience in property, we consider ourselves experts when it comes to letting properties and managing tenants.

The pros and cons of furnishing an Investment property

Whether or not to furnish a rental property is a very common question asked by investors.

Furnished properties typically command higher rentals, and are often assumed to offer greater returns as a result. As with most things in life, however, the truth of the matter is a little more complicated

“Furnished and unfurnished rental properties each have their own set of pros and cons,” says Bill Rawson, Chairman of the Rawson Property Group. “Whether one is better than the other is often just a matter of opinion, but the landlord’s expectations and approach to the management of his investment also play a big role.”

Rawson explains that, while furnished properties can achieve 15 – 20% higher rentals than if they were unfurnished, they tend to attract a specific type of tenant which can bring some challenges into the picture.

“Furnished

properties tend to be rented by one of three types of people,” says Rawson. “The first is someone with very little in the way of furnishings of their own, like a student, a young professional or a recent divorcee.

The second is someone who is living in a new area and is either waiting for their own furniture to arrive, or doesn’t plan on being around long enough to need it, like a recent immigrant, a corporate expat or a contract worker.

The third type of person is a holidaymaker, or long-stay tourist.”

As Rawson points out, the common thread between all these tenant types is the fact that they are often looking for a temporary place to stay, or to tide them over until a more permanent arrangement can be made.

“Very few people rent a furnished property over the long term,” he says.

“Most of us are more comfortable having our own things when we settle into a more permanent home. As a result, furnished properties usually see a higher turnover of tenants, and have a higher risk of unoccupied periods, since demand can be seasonal and suitable tenants can’t always be found right away.”

Higher management costs can also be required with furnished rental properties and insurance is sometimes higher than normal.

“Tenants are renowned for being less fastidious with furniture and appliances that aren’t their own,” Rawson acknowledges. “Repair and maintenance costs must be factored into expenses as well, along with cleaning costs for carpets, upholstery and curtains between tenancies.”

This way, you can charge a small premium on your rental without excluding yourself from the larger pool of tenants looking for an unfurnished property who may still be very keen to have access to a built-in stove, fridge, washing machine and tumble dryer, for example.”

Despite these challenges, Rawson points out that properly-run furnished rental properties can be exceptionally lucrative, particularly if you manage to tap into a high-end corporate or tourist market. If you don’t have the time or inclination to really invest in proper management or marketing, however, an unfurnished investment property might be a better choice for you.

In these cases, Rawson stresses the importance of keeping furnishings minimal and neutral in style, providing all the basics without overly cluttering the space. That way, tenants can add their own items and personal touches without feeling overwhelmed, and it’s easy enough for you to remove and store any duplicates like beds and couches if necessary.

“There is a much higher demand for unfurnished rentals in South Africa, and its usually easier to source longterm tenants for these properties,” says Rawson. “That means lower tenant turnover, less risk of unoccupied periods, and a more stable, reliable source of income – albeit a little lower than the furnished equivalent.”

“However you choose to let your investment property, remember to always use a reputable rental agent to manage and market it appropriately,” Rawson concludes.

There is, however, some middle ground to be found between furnished and unfurnished, and Rawson says that this can be the ideal solution for an easily lettable, profitable investment.

“Installing a few key items and large appliances can be a great way to tap into elements of both furnished and unfurnished rentals,” says Rawson. “Particularly if you have the option to place some furniture in storage if the tenant prefers to bring their own.

“An experienced professional will be able to advise you on all the pros and cons as they apply to your situation, and ensure you receive the best return possible on your particular investment.”

OUR FEATURED RENTAL LISTING FOR THE MONTH

TOP RENTALS Kembali Estate - Olympus

R24 000 pm Fully furnished 3 bed townhouse This 3 bedroom townhouse consists of two living areas, a gourmet kitchen, separate scullery and a pantry. The gorgeous cultural furnishings make this an ideal fit for an executive or diplomat.

Faith Chinyayi- 0736117621

For more information

Boardwalk - Silverlakes

R35 200 pm Space and luxury Lovely 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathroom house. Spacious living and dining area, neat kitchen with beautifully fitted cupboards.

This double storey house has 2 balconies, a swimming pool, garden and breathtaking views.

Faith Chinyayi- 0736117621

For more information

Glen Eagles - Silverlakes

R28 000 pm Gorgeous 5 bedroom home This fully furnished 5-bedroom home is ideal for diplomats, embassies or executives.

Located in the prestigious Silver Lakes Golf Estate.

Chane vd Merwe – 062 355 6995

For more information

RENTALS Olympus

R16 500 pm

Mooikloof Ridge

R 10 900 pm

3 bedroom townhouse in Kembali Estate

Lovely 3 bedroom apartment in Pebble Sands

Faith Chinyayi- 0736117621

Desire Eloff – 083 7099 528

Lynnwood

R19 800 pm

3 Bedroom house in Kings Highway

R8 550 pm

New modern cottage on smallholding

.Faith Chinyayi- 0736117621

Mooikloof Ridge

Boschkop

David van Coller - 082 425 7458

R 10 000 pm

Lombardy Estate

R49 000 pm

Charming 3 bedroom townhouse in Crescent View

Upmarket Corporate rental

Desire Eloff – 083 7099 528

Carla van Coller 083 227 5880

VIEW MORE PROPERTIES

Eight tips for finding your dream rental The trees are in full bloom and the days are, finally, getting longer and warmer.

Yes, spring has sprung! And so has that feeling of a new season and new beginnings.

For those who are renting or looking to rent, springtime is the ideal time to make a move and to start afresh: according to statistics, a higher number of rentals become available during September and October, while the warmer weather makes the house-hunt so much more pleasant.

If you’re looking to find a new lease (as in: that dream rental) on life, make sure you follow these eight tips – that’ll help you find that perfect apartment or house to rent!

1. Figure out what you want House or apartment hunting might seem like a fun idea, but it can turn into your worst nightmare when you’ve viewed what feels like a hundred places and haven’t been able to find something you like.

Instead, make a list of the top three ‘musts’ or ‘non-negotiables’ that the rental should have. It can be anything from good natural light, to two bathrooms, being close to schools or a desirable neighbourhood. This way you can skip viewing homes that don’t meet your preferences.

2. Determine afford

what

you

can

While we all have ideas of what our dream rental should look like, it’s important to be realistic, especially when it comes to what you can afford. It’s recommended that your monthly rent should not exceed 20% to 30% of your monthly income. To find out what you can really afford, draw up a basic budget by subtracting your monthly expenses from your monthly income. Once you know what you have to work with, try to find something that meets it, as well as those non-negotiable wants.

3. Look in the right places Use reliable channels and sources like rawson.co.za and property portals like Private Property to help you find a place – rental agents usually have a large database of available properties that can be crossmatched to your budget and nonnegotiable wants. It’s also a good idea to network through friends and family; you never know who might have a good tip for you.

4. Uncover hidden costs

7. Do an initial check

Hurrah, you’ve found a dream space that’s within your budget! But, before you sign and seal the deal, make sure you know about any additional costs that might come your way. Here are a few things to consider and discuss with the landlord or rental agent: • What will your deposit be?

• Is water/sewage included in the rent?

• Is there free parking or do you have to rent a bay?

• Are Fibre or ADSL cables installed?

Are any of these costs included?

Before you even consider signing on the dotted line, make sure the house or apartment suits your practical needs. Things to pay attention to include: • Adequate plumbing points in the kitchen, will both your washing machine and dishwasher fit?

• Does the kitchen and living area have enough plug points?

• Will your fridge fit properly in the kitchen?

• Is there pre-paid electricity or is it billed?

• Does the shower have adequate water pressure?

5. Envision it as your home Let your imagination run wild in your potential new (dream) home: think, about how your furniture would look and fit in the space. More importantly, measure key pieces as well as doors and walls to ensure that everything will fit. So often people fall in love with the space without considering what it would look like once their belongings are in – the last thing you want is to find a perfect home and, then, realise that it doesn’t actually suit you.

6. Get inside information Finding the right rental home isn’t just about finding the right the house or apartment that’s to let – it’s also all about the neighbourhood. Spend some time driving through the streets and get to know the area better, during the day and at night.

These are things you can change fairly easily when buying a home, but when renting, these are things you will have to live with.

8. Be prepared When it comes to rentals, you need to move fast: the good, affordable homes are usually swooped up in hours! It’s always a good idea to make sure you have all the necessary documentation and paperwork ready, long before you start the house-hunt – in case you find the perfect rental on the first look: • Ask the rental agent or landlord for an application form, and fill it out prior to your viewing, • Get three months bank statements and/or proof of income (salary slips) printed and certified, • Make certified copies of your ID, • Have reference letters from previous landlords ready to show.

Happy house-hunting!

We know what we’re planning

By Peter Olyott, CEO Indwe Broker Holdings

South Africa has been operating for the past two years as the Southern and Central Financial Services sector for the SADC region and the broader BRICS grouping. With some inspired plans and initiatives, South Africa has managed to attract both new investments in financial services and the accompanying investment in Fintech to support this new and rapidly growing market.

The sector has seen growth of more than 12% per annum over this period and some analysts predict this will reach 15% for this year.

Post Retail Distribution Review (RDR) the South African financial services sector has moved with lightning speed to embrace the opportunities technology and big data has brought about. Probably the biggest improvements have seen a notable move towards making the buying process less painful and less time-consuming, but with more information enabling clients to be far better informed when making their decisions. This also improved the claims process, making it more personalised and the experience a lot more like the sales person promised. One client mentioned to me that this was the first time the money came back into his bank account almost as quickly as the monthly premiums left it!

What else has happened? Well, convergence is well and truly on its way. From life insurance through to car and household insurance and from healthcare (in its broadest sense) to investments and savings, today’s financial advisors are able to provide a holistic view to each client. This allows clients to benchmark their own total financial services portfolio against the norm for the current circumstances. Best practice, if one can call it that! What’s even better is that after the initial sale, the cost of a combined portfolio reduces each year as the marketing and servicing costs are shared amongst the different products. Short-term insurance is no longer limited to monthly or annual deals but deals can be structured over 5 years with multiple payment options resulting in lower costs of motor and household insurance.

For newcomers to car and household insurance, the use of telematics and mobile wallets has introduced ‘Pay as u go’ and ‘Pay4 what u need’ insurances. For the young and up-coming insurance buyers, insurance can be purchased on a weekly basis and cover can be changed as their needs dictate without having to complete a laborious manual process.

With medical advancements occurring so rapidly, five-year life insurance policies with a cash back benefit have become the norm, allowing consumers to use these flexible-term policies to serve multiple purposes. More flexibility to structure health insurance and medical aid products has allowed clients to optimise their health care spending resulting in more people having access to quality healthcare.

On the company front, Risk Portfolio Shares (RPS) have become the new investment rage. Insurers are packaging their risk portfolios and are able to trade with other insurers and non-insurer investment houses, providing them with better-balanced portfolios and natural hedges enabling them to deliver more consistent returns for shareholders and policyholders. Those insurers who have achieved sound risk acceptance practices and consumer fairness claim processes have attracted the most attention from these investors.

Consumers, even those with little or no experience or understanding of financial services, are able to access multiple sites which provide online information and examples of each product, providing the key risk rating issues which affect acceptance, underwriting and claims. They are able to populate their own risk profile information once and instead of long telephone calls and burning ears, they are able to submit their risk profile information to obtain multiple quotes on multiple products with confirmation calls now reduced to less than five minutes. Google has finally launched the much-anticipated consumer-owned ‘Single View of Me’ software, which allows consumers to safely store, create and build their individualised risk profiles across their whole financial services portfolios.

What players in the industry have realised is that the consumer requires multiple ways of interacting with their organisations without being dictated to in terms of which processes require specific channels. So most forward thinking businesses allow their clients to move between an online, mobile, or personal interface or by phone, depending on the circumstances, and utilising multiple data sources. Insurers are able to profile most clients without the client having to provide the information.

What’s been really impressive, though, is how the financial services sector finally managed to crack the uninsured and entry-level markets (and make money!) employing some rather unconventional approaches to creating an integrated biosphere in which low cost, high benefit products can exist.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the support and encouragement of the regulators and the central and provincial governments.

Financial Services Sector – the place to be in 2021!

FIRST IMPRESSIONS Fantastic Front Gardens Welcoming front gardens that make you feel right at home Gardens may be more of a backyard arrangement, but keeping one in the front of your house is just as rewarding. Not only do you still get to enjoy time with your plants, but you can also beautify your home.

Front yards are one of the main attractions of your home’s exterior, so what better way to stand out on the block than with some lush landscaping?

Minimalist arrangements Displays like the this are water efficient and give this home a contemporary look. Rocks and pebbles not only conserve water, but also add touches of color that can highlight the plants’ green hues.

Desert garden These days, water conservation is vital.

Instead of a lawn that requires constant watering, this garden houses succulents and other low-maintenance desert plants.

Fresh forest The evergreens in this lush landscape are simple and provide fresh air. What better place to have a miniature forest than in your own front yard? Makes for exciting places for the kids to play ‘hide and seek’.

Archways A radiant arch of roses at the front of a house is picturesque and romantic, greeting guests with a warm welcome. Just double check that there are no thorny bits hanging down.

Flowery walkways This walkway runs through a beautiful flower garden that adds a soft touch to the house. Could you imagine coming home to this charming flower field? Gives us South African a touch of the Old English feel.

Views from the porch If porches are for lounging, then why not have a lovely sight in front? Hanging baskets, a small stream, and a variety of flowers provide a spectacle for all.

Pots and pebbles This crafty setup that includes pebbles can help reduce the amount of water it would take to irrigate these plants.

Tropical delight Palm trees and tropical plants are perfect for creating a cool, refreshing atmosphere.

If you feel your front yard needs a little touch up, we hope these images give you the inspiration to tackle a new gardening project. After all, your plants deserve to be shown off!

Tidy shrubbery Neatly trimmed shrubs are common adornments for front yards. The eyecatching pink flowers contrast nicely with the soil and stone wall.

Mulch Mulch is a great alternative for grass. These black-eyed Susan's stand out nicely against the mulch’s brown pigment, the green plants, and the house’s beige paint, giving this landscape a casual but elegant look.

This recipe makes approximately 16 bit size square of coconut berry pieces.

Ingredients:

◾2 Cups Coconut Butter ◾2 Cups Berries (I used raspberries and cherries) ◾1/2 Cup Raw Honey ◾1/2 Teaspoon vanilla extract ◾1/2 Teaspoon Fresh Lemon Zest or 1 Drop Lemon Essential Oil ◾1 Tablespoon Maca Powder (Optional)

Instructions:

◾Melt coconut butter over medium low heat until it’s smooth and creamy. Turn off heat and set aside. ◾In a food processor mix coconut butter and berries together until smooth. ◾Add raw honey, vanilla extract, lemon and Maca powder if using. ◾Mix all the ingredients together and pour into a greased 20 x 20 cm pan. ◾Refrigerate for one hour or until the bars are cooled ◾Cut the bars into squares and serve. ◾Store in the refrigerator or freezer.

with Penni du Plessis Divine Space

YELLOW

Yellow is a bright, creative colour that captures your attention. It is the happiest colour in the spectrum and the right shade of yellow will lift your spirits and self-esteem. It is a primary colour as well as being a ‘warm’ colour and it is known for its ability to promote clear thinking and assist with quick decision making. It is also the most highly visible of all colours which is why it is used for road markings.

Yellow shines with joy and enlightenment and it arouses cheerfulness. The benefits that the colour yellow can bring in are creating a strong sense of self and it can help you to set personal boundaries.

DECORATING WITH YELLOW: Yellow can lend a sense of happiness and cheerfulness to a room but you need to be aware that using too much yellow can sometimes introduce feelings of anxiety due being such a bright, fast-moving colour.

Instead, use yellow accents or a bowl of yellow flowers really does invite the joy into your space. If you love the colour yellow, and have lots of it in your home, introduce other colours alongside it to bring more balance into the area. It blends especially well with blue or lilac.

Yellow is an appropriate colour to use to in an office or study because it enhances the intellect and has a stimulating effect on the mind. Make sure to choose a soft buttery shade of yellow which is easier on the eye. The stronger acidic yellows can be too harsh in a space where you spend a lot of time.

Yellow stimulates the appetite so it’s not such a good idea to paint your kitchen yellow if you are on a diet or wanting to eat in a balanced and healthy way. You’ll just end up frustrating yourself after giving in to temptation.

WEARING YELLOW: Not many people are comfortable wearing yellow; but if you are, you will light up the room.

It instantly invites happiness and confidence. If it is a colour you avoid, try adding a yellow scarf or tie to your wardrobe, and see how it makes you feel. Notice too, the responses you get from others. Do they engage with you more? Are people friendlier towards you?  Wear yellow, for example, if you are wanting to create a new business concept and you are struggling with ideas to bring the business into reality. Yellow inspires original thought and inquisitiveness. It resonates with the logical side of your brain and will help to stimulate ideas and assist you with finding a new way of approaching things.  Yellow is the great communicator and it loves to talk so if you are a teacher and you are trying to engage with your students in order to get them to respond to you, it may be a good idea to wear the yellow scarf or blouse.  If you are going through a lot of change in your life you may find you can’t tolerate wearing the colour yellow very well. It just means that you are having trouble coping with all the changes, as it creates the feeling of being stressed.

From a spiritual perspective: Yellow relates to the SOLAR PLEXUS chakra situated below the ribs. This chakra relates to self-worth; how we feel about ourselves and how we feel others perceive us. This is the area of the personality, the ego, the intellect and of self-confidence.

Remember that every colour has both positive and negative attributes – so see which you resonate with more:

Positive aspects: Increases optimism and confidence, it encourages emotional strength, it promotes friendliness and creativity, it activates memory and assists with communication. It indicates a happy disposition and outgoing personality.

Negative aspects: It indicates someone who may be negative who has difficulty letting go of the past. They repeat their drama stories and this creates more of the same, which leads to fear and anxiety. Lack of confidence and personal power, self judgement and stress are all indications of a rejection of the yellow in your life. They may even suffer with depression, despair, fatigue, stress and are very sensitive to criticism. Because of their lack of confidence, they take on too much, to try and prove themselves, and then struggle with completing everything they have committed to.

To balance the negative aspects, it would be really helpful to use the yellow oil in your bath or as a body oil daily, to strengthen and support you.

HEALING WITH YELLOW Using the Yellow Oil of Transformation will help to ease nervous tension, confusion, stress and fear.

It can be very helpful with focus, studying and concentration as it stimulates the intellect and assists with clarity. Yellow organises the mind, and together with the beautiful smell, it positively enhances the memory, so use it while studying and again when writing exams. It is particularly useful to put on the skin under the nose while studying and both there as well as around the solar plexus before going into an exam to ease your stress levels.

The Angel of Enlightenment Spray – is wonderful when sprayed lightly over the face after cleansing and toning every day. It starts your day with a happy boost and your skin responds to it beautifully too.

See more on the colour YELLOW at www.divinespace.co.za

Adorable DIY Terrariums to Create at Home

For those who don’t know, terrariums are very easy and quick to make and they are very easy for maintaining. They can also be a perfect gift for anybody or a beautiful decor for your house, dining table or even you can beautify the wedding tables with such decors.

This is a very interesting way to add freshness and bring the nature in your home.

The terrariums are great oxygen boosters and the ones that I have selected for you are very easy and quick to create. You can make them in the size you want and that is suitable for your space.

If your friends or relatives live in a flat, than why not to add freshness into these people’s lives by giving them terrariums like these. As I said before, terrariums are one of the easiest way to bring the outside beauty in our homes!

You can’t go wrong with a present like this. Plus, terrariums are very easy to maintain, and are also very cheap and you can make them at home in no time.

Show your family and friends your talent and creativity by creating a work of art that will beautify their home.

These beautiful decorations are made up of layers of various materials and herbs. Before you start, pick what herbs you will be using for your project.

You can go with Sansevieria, Fittonia, Hypoestes, Small tears, Baby's tears, African violets, Cacti or Succulents. These herbs need light, so put them near the window and rotate the bowl occasionally. To prevent growth of fungi, remove the dead leaves and keep the bowl clean.

To make your terrarium more interesting, you can add gemstones, pieces of wood or stones. Draw some inspiration from these ideas here and make your own project.

The Antbear Drakensberg Lodge is a thatched, whitewashed lodge built high on a natural platform overlooking the Bushman's River and Giants Castle.

Antbear Drakensberg Lodge offers various Drakensberg accommodation options in en suite double rooms, luxury suites, family units and also boasts a luxury cave too.

Antbear Drakensberg Lodge is one of those smaller intimate kind places which has been lovingly put together. The natural setting of the accommodation is stunning and we have managed to encase all this beauty with an atmosphere of comfort and ease.

The cottages are smartly appointed and individually designed and the fact that we are a small place makes for an intimate and personal accommodation experience. Each of the accommodation units are different and are decorated with uniquely eccentric and artistic wooden furniture.

It is a bit off the beaten track and is more of an insider tip than just another bed and breakfast. We cater for small intimate groups and never have more than 45 guests at a time. It's a laid back, lovingly cared for kind of place where you feel a sense of happiness and peace. Honeymoon stays turn into anniversary commemorations just as guests become friends. Even foreign tourists return for a second and third taste.

Attractions Drakensburg Hiking Trails Bushman Rock Art Giant’s Castle Kamberg Weenen Game Reserve Royal Natal National Park Drakensburg Boys Choir

Horse Trails Injasuti Nature Reserve Monks Cowl Natal Midlands Tugela Falls Sani Pass Fly Fishing

Retreats The Antbear Drakensberg Lodge is the ideal retreat venue where we can provide all the services and accommodation for your retreat. Situated 4 hours from Johannesburg and 2 hours from Durban with easy access from the N3 Antbear Lodge is easy to get to but has the feeling of being far from the madding crowd. This wonderful place for group retreats offers spectacular views, vast spaces, wild winds, rain, sunshine, clouds and rainbows and in all of this – silence and peace.

Retreat groups can book the whole lodge for their exclusive use.

The Lodge can accommodate 44 persons in 15 separate accommodation units Antbear Drakensberg Lodge has a spacious dining room with a wood-burning fireplace, a comfortable lounge with a fireplace and spectacular views, a breakaway meeting room, a large veranda and a large meeting room for retreat, team building or training activities. We provide excellent meals and will fit our menu to your expectations.

Because food is an important part of your stay Meals are part of the real surprises that the Antbear Lodge has to offer where home grown cooking is part of the deal. We like to use our own home grown organic vegetables and if we haven’t got, then we lean heavily on those local providers with similar attitudes to our own. Conny and Andrew both like cooking and are up to changing just about anything to suit tastes or philosophies. Our cooking experience is in part a journal, a record of events and memories expressed in recipes. In the course of our travels we have filed away many recipes and with them images of people and places and their lives. How food tastes has much to do with the associations we make and if you would like to hear the tales of our meals we would love to tell them.

Sustainable & responsible tourism is our social responsibility and what we do to give something back to our community and environment We believe in sustainable tourism and social responsibility. We live is a spectacularly beautiful place called the Drakensberg and our standard of living here is exceptional.

But around us lie contrasts of poverty and lack of development. If we are to keep our way of life then it surely follows that we must do everything in our power to contribute to the upliftment and prosperity of this rural area. We believe that the future of South Africa is linked to the prosperity of the people, and that upliftment is linked to education. And as such we have chosen to support our local primary school called Vulakani Primary School.

Pet friendly accommodation Drakensberg One of the few pet-friendly places in the Drakensberg. Beautiful, vast views of the Drakensberg with plenty of ground for my dogs to roam. Walk for hours.

Your dogs will be happy with lots of dams to swim in and horses to discover. One of the accommodation units at Antbear Lodge is fenced in so its really easy to leave your dog behind if you would like to explore some of the sights where pets are not that welcome. If country life is for you and you would love to take your pet with you then Antbear Lodge is a great accommodation choice. Your hosts will advise you on all the activities available. Antbear Lodge prides itself on being both family-friendly and petfriendly.

CONTACT Mobile Phone: Email: Web:

076 441 2362 (036) 352-3142 reservations@antbear.co.za www.antbear.co.za

Experience the Most Rocking Year End Party Ever at your favourite Gauteng Barnyard Theatre!

Electric-flamboyant, rock-till-you-drop shows, delicious catering options, dĂŠcor packages, exclusive discounts on cabs and more...

Scroll down for more info & book or enquire now to avoid disappointment!

MORE ADDED VALUE IN 2016: We have not increased our ticket prices for 2016 peak season (1 November - 15 December) - book at 2015 rates!

People have varying amounts of tolerance to pain and the same is true of their pets. Some dogs may yelp and cry at the least discomfort, whilst another my not limp on an injured leg until it’s extremely damaged. Cats are notorious for being stoic and not showing that they are in pain.

Knowing your pet and his habits and behaviour is often the trigger to realizing he is hurting. You need to know what is normal for your pet, to be able to tell what is abnormal for them.

The skill of observing with a critical eye can be learned by anyone, and it starts with a genuine love and interest in your pet, his behaviour, posture and habits.

Often the first sign of pain in a family pet is the feeling of the owner that “something isn’t right” There are symptoms to watch for but often the first sign of pain in a family pet is the feeling of the owner that “something isn’t right”. When that impression remains for several days, a trip to the vet for a checkup is a good idea.

Symptoms of Pain: Vocalizing Your dog may whine when he rises from a sitting position or yelp when he jumps down from a chair. He may whimper when you massage a shoulder or make moaning or groaning sounds when at rest.

Your cat’s purring may actually increase, or he may be meowing incessantly or differently. Panting is normal for dogs but constant panting in the absence of exercise or heat is unusual. Cats in pain may have a faster and more shallow breathing pattern than normal. They may also even pant.

Posture Know your pet’s normal posture at rest, as well as his normal gait. Sometimes postural changes may be very obvious e.g. our dog may limp with one leg or may appear to walk in an awkward, hunched position holding his front end and back end at uneven heights, or your horse may stand with his head in a lowered position. (When he stands with his head lower than his knees, it should set-off major alarm bells). If you know your pet’s “body language” , it will be easier to see when there is a deviation from the normal pattern.

Level of Activity Owners accustomed to a pet who follows them from room to room may notice the animal staying in one place instead. The dog may lay down, get up, circle and lay down again repeatedly trying to find a comfortable position and may have difficulty getting up after laying down. Cats experiencing pain often move around less. But depending on what hurts, they may still move around the same amount, just differently. They may move with a limp, or go more slowly up or down the stairs. Horses may show a decrease in activity or be reluctant to move, or may lag behind the rest of the group.

“Cats in pain may have a faster and more shallow breathing pattern”

“Your pet may avoid social contact, or growl or snap..”

Heart and Pulse Change Animals in pain will often have an increased heart/pulse rate. The rate often noticeably speeds up when the painful area is touched or moved. You can enrol in a pet’s first aid course, or ask your veterinarian or veterinary nurse to show you how to check and measure your pet’s pulse rate.

Behavioural Changes Your pet may avoid social contact, or growl or snap when you touch part of his body or manipulate a joint. He may withdraw from petting and be reluctant to participate in play activity. Some dogs may become more needy than usual and seem to be asking for constant attention.

Incessant licking, scratching or chewing of one part of the body is a visible indication of itching or pain and an increase in drooling is another sign of a problem.

Be aware of changes in your horse’s behaviour in his turn-out group. Very often bad behaviour in horses have been attributed to them having a nasty character, but these unwanted behaviour patterns – swishing of the tail if you pass to close to their hind quarter, bucking, or dropping of the shoulder may be due to the fact that they are in pain.

Cats in pain are more likely to bite and scratch. This is true even with their owners and other familiar people. This is particularly true when a person touches or moves the painful area, or if the cat anticipates you touching or moving the painful area.

Cat’s may have a decrease in self-grooming when ill, or may groom excessively in an area with a wound. If your cat suddenly hides under beds or in cupboards it is s sure sign that he is in pain. Should your cat start to urinate or defecate outside his litter box it may be a sign of back/joint pain. They will struggle to get in and out of the litter box and also with the posture needed to defecate, and as a result may become constipated.

Feeding changes Animals may lose their appetite when they are in pain or appear unusually tired or lethargic. Be aware of their feeding habits and pay attention to their feeding routine and changes to these routines. When they do go and eat and experience some pain in their mouth or the cause of their pain is related to their teeth, then they may drop food/water out of their mouth whilst eating/drinking.

Appearance Animals display facial expressions that their human companion recognize as part of the personality of their pet. A change in expression or physical appearance may be an indicator of a pet who is in pain.

Ears laid back may be unusual for the animal and a vacant stare that replaces the attentive look, or eyes that seem constantly tired and sleepy may be subtle clues of a joint that is aching or an injury that needs treatment.

Strained, tense nostrils, mouth and prominent chewing muscles, flattening of the horse’s profile, as well as tension seen above the eye area is a sure sign that your horse needs the vet or blacksmith or some dentistry.

Treatment for Pain Relief: Seek advice from your vet as soon as you notice your pet is in pain to determine the cause of pain. Prompt treatment can halt the progression of serious illness and relieve discomfort quickly.

Finding the cause of the discomfort can often lead to treatments with pet medicines that will control or even eliminate pain for the animal. Please do not self-medicate your pet. Many fatalities have occurred with caring pet owners medicating their pets with human medicine. You can cause your pet severe distress and even death by giving your pet medicine meant for human beings.

Natural Medicines: Eco-Vet has a portfolio of registered natural medicine designed for treating various painful conditions. EcoHeal is a must in your fist aid kit for pain and sudden onset injuries, while Eco-Joint has been created for the treatment of animals with acute and chronic joint strains associated with mainly soft tissue injuries.

May be effectively used before hard exercise to protect from work induced injuries. Is an effective remedy for use immediately after hard exercise as an aid to recovery. Eco-Arth is a natural remedy for the treatment of animals with chronic joint problems associated with degenerative disease, and had seen many animals regaining their mobility.

We love animals, NATURALLY Erika Bornman CEO-Eco-Vet www.ecovet.co.za

About Wags & Whiskers Rescue Team We are a small group of people who are dedicated to helping all furr-kids. Located in Fourways & Midrand JHB. Email wagsandwhiskers7@gmail.com Robyn: 084 593 1292 of Cheyna 082 307 2377

NEVAEH NEVAEH (Heaven spelled backwards) is being looked after

by Robyn herself until she can find her forever home. “She is beyond amazing. Can be skittish with strange men but she has been amazing with all the kittens, puppies, kids and whoever else comes through my door. Please someone offer her a forever home.�

Rawson Mooikloof supports

The Society for Animals In Distress Protecting Animals, healing their sickness, fighting ignorance, empowering others to do the same.

They service 8 communities from informal settlements and townships north and north east of Johannesburg.

This photo was taken by Sharon of one of her precious family members who is a lot more privileged than the animals SAID helps on a daily basis.

We encourage everybody to support this organisation. They give selflessly and do phenomenal work.

HOPE BEGINS WITH YOU They’re here!

The TOPEs have arrived!

The Sunflower Fund have been keeping a HUGE secret – and now the secret’s out! You can help celebrate our new signature campaign, Sunflower Day, on 16 September by purchasing your Tube of Hope - Tope from Pick n Pay or one of the Fund’s retail partners.

But what is a Tope, I hear you ask? “Well,” says The Sunflower Fund’s CEO, Alana James, “It’s an affordable, multipurpose article of clothing that can be worn as a headband, mask, scarf, cap or arm-band.”

Being broadly versatile, it may be used in a wide variety of sports or outdoor activities and will be available in six eye-catching colours.

The Tope offers practical functionality for the entire family and gives wearers the opportunity to show their support for this important cause!

The Tope will be available in a small (R20.00 incl VAT) and a large (R25.00 incl VAT) and is on sale from August at Pick n Pay stores nationwide, Round Table, selected ICPA pharmacies and the online store, Zando.

Tina Botha, founder patron of the Fund said, “I am delighted to see that The Sunflower Fund continues its vital work. I am also excited at the prospect of a new signature campaign, in the form of Sunflower Day – we have remained true to our roots, but have also had the opportunity to move with the times by introducing the Tope – I hope that our loyal supporters are as enamored with the Tope as we are and encourage the public to buy them now!”

HOPE BEGINS WITH YOU About The Sunflower Fund The Sunflower Fund, a South African NonProfit Company (NPC), is dedicated to creating awareness, educating the public and handling the registration process for people to join the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR).

The Sunflower Fund pays for the test cost of people joining the SABMR. This is fundamental to saving the lives of thousands of South Africans each year.

The chance of finding a matching donor is 1 in 100,000 – and as ethnic origin plays a significant role in the search for a donor, South Africa’s rainbow nation is at a distinct disadvantage, requiring a large pool of prospective donors.

The aim of The Sunflower Fund is to increase the number of donors on the current registry to at least 400,000 with proportionate representation of the four main ethnic groups in South Africa.

Should you wish to become a donor, support one of the fundraising projects or make a financial contribution, please contact The Sunflower Fund on toll-free number: 0800 12 10 82.

Visit www.sunflowerfund.org.za to learn more or look out for the DONATE button to make a cash donation via the website.

Media contact: Lauren Corlett Sunflower Fund Tel: (021) 701-0661 / Cell: 082 688 4788 Email: lauren@sunflowerfund.org.za