Business Day Homefront - 29 September 2023

We know that you lifestyle where you Zimbali Lakes is else will you find access? From masterful everything you

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Crafting retirementyour

Anew development, The Anura Residence, in the Boland region of the Western Cape, offers something new for those looking at retiring to SA’s foremost wine-producing hub, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes and expansive vineyards. While the vineyards steal the spotlight, the Boland also presents various outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From hiking in the mountains to exploring the lush valleys and enjoying scenic drives, the region offers a diverse playground for those who appreciate the great outdoors.

The Anura Residence by Fiorini’s Group and AF Holdings, in collaboration with renowned architect Abrie Jordaan of Jordaan Architects, comprises 348 assisted living units thoughtfully designed with luxury, convenience and sustainability in mind.

Centrally located at 225 Main Road, Paarl, it is the only development in the area to offer a specific market segment the option of buying a sectional title

on full ownership for themselves or as an investment for tenants over 50.

AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE

According to Anton Louw, spokesperson for AF Holdings, research showed that people in Paarl older than 68, which is the entry age at other existing retirement facilities, had no alternative but to undergo strenuous screening processes before being added to a three-year waiting list after paying an exorbitant nonrefundable deposit. Rentals are about R9,000 to R22,000 per unit, and by the time applicants reach the top of those waiting lists, these amounts could have escalated by at least 30%.

“The Anura Residence is an affordable alternative within less than a 200metre radius from existing establishments,” he says.

Priced from R875,000 for wellappointed studios to R2.7m for expansive two-bedroom suites, every layout accommodates varying preferences and lifestyles.

“Property at The Anura Residence is sold on full ownership with growth

and profit on resales to the benefit of each homeowner. This is one of the main reasons we felt that a product like this was needed for the Boland property market – something unique that also offers unparalleled value for money – and our buyers couldn’t agree more,” says Delicia van Wyk, franchisee and principal of RealNet Paarl and surrounds, who has successfully launched the development to the public and manages sales on behalf of the developers.

COMMUNITY AT HEART

Architect Abrie Jordaan describes the design of The Anura Residence as one that marries modern aesthetics with functionality. High-quality materials ensure durability, while energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems promote responsible energy consumption.

Safety and security are paramount at The Anura Residence, and a comprehensive security system, including CCTV surveillance and access control, ensures residents’ peace of mind.

“The commitment to sustainability is evident through the utilisation of alternative back-up power for electrical supply, energy-efficient appliances and green building practices. We are proud to have been able to design a product like The Anura Residence and feel it is a manifestation of architectural innovation, communitycentric design and a dedication to enhancing the lives of retirees – a space that provides comfort, convenience and camaraderie for those embarking on the next chapter of their lives in Paarl,” says Jordaan.

PLANNING FOR RETIREMENT

According to a recent survey among people over 60, about 38% still work full time while 33% are retired with a secondary income source. About 21% of the respondents are fully retired and 7% work part-time.

In an episode of Rainmaker Marketing’s Key To Property podcast on East Coast Radio, industry experts Brad Winstanley, DEVMCO portfolio manager, and Jeremy Bentham, Capri Village project

manager, shared their insights.

Capri Village is a coastal estate for active seniors over 50, considered an intelligent investment opportunity in a fantastic location with plenty of convenient amenities and activities for those who thrive on social interaction and recreation. If you prefer to immerse yourself in the beautiful natural surroundings, there’s plenty to explore and experience in the environment.

10 TIPS FOR A REWARDING RETIREMENT

1. Prioritise convenience: Choose a retirement location near shopping, medical facilities and loved ones for easy access to essential amenities.

2. Go for low-maintenance homes: Properties without steps for a comfortable, hassle-free living environment, reducing physical strain.

3. Ensure safety and security: Look for retirement communities with gated entrances, surveillance systems and emergency response services to provide peace of mind.

4. Prioritise healthcare access: Explore retirement options that offer home-based care or on-site medical facilities for prompt and comprehensive healthcare support.

5. Embrace an active lifestyle: Seek communities with fitness centres, wellness programmes, outdoor activities and social events to stay active and connected in retirement.

6. Consider pet-friendly communities: If you have pets, choose estates that welcome them, enabling companionship and purpose during retirement.

7. Manage finances wisely: Seek professional financial advice to secure your retirement savings and investments, ensuring a stable financial future.

8. Pursue lifelong learning and hobbies: Look for communities offering educational programmes, workshops and recreational activities tailored to your interests.

9. Foster connections: Opt for retirement communities that promote social interaction and a sense of community, creating lifelong friendships.

10. Plan thoughtfully: Reflect on your retirement goals, lifestyle preferences, financial objectives and desired activities to create a detailed retirement plan before you make decisions.

options are often expensive with long waiting lists, but what if there is another way to enjoy

The Anura

A smart and secure investment

The Zimbali Lakes development in KwaZulu-Natal exemplifies a superior quality of life. Here freshwater lakes, championship golf and a coastal beach lifestyle are par for the course

WORDS AND PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

In the property market where high net worth discerning buyers demand innovation, privacy and exclusivity, one name stands out - Zimbali Lakes.

As an estate pioneering a revolutionary superior standard of living in SA, Zimbali Lakes will be the only estate offering a dynamic trifecta of lakes, golf and beach.

This masterfully designed development is situated within 15 minutes of all daily necessities along KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast.

Zimbali Lakes will encompass freshwater lakes, golf, a choice of multigenerational residential living options, various leisure amenities, beach access and an impressive lakeside retail development with public access.

It is set to become the most highly coveted lifestyle destination on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.

INNOVATION AND CONNECTIVITY

Zimbali Lakes is designed as a “smart estate” that is underpinned by four nonnegotiable pillars, namely security,

connectivity, power and water.

The estate’s master developers are renowned champions of innovation. Sustainable solutions will include stable fibre connections tailored for the work-from-home era, and integrated backup power and water storage systems, ensuring life on the estate is seamless.

SURROUNDED BY NATURE

The collaboration between internationally acclaimed architects and renowned landscapers puts Zimbali Lakes in a league of its own. This is where innovation and contemporary design meet to construct a modern lifestyle in beautiful natural surrouondings. The new 18-hole Zimbali Lakes golf course is currently under construction and planned to be playable by the end of 2024.

Residents will also be able to enjoy nonmotorised water sport activities ranging from stand-up paddling, canoeing and kayaking to catch-andrelease fi shing on the freshwater lakes. These unique bodies of water will

LIFE AT ZIMBALI LAKES

provide the focal point for lakeside living.

“The KwaZulu-Natal subtropical climate encourages a laid-back, sophisticated coastal lifestyle. You wouldn’t want to live anywhere else once you make Zimbali Lakes your forever home,” says Wayne Krambeck, Zimbali Lakes senior vice-president, Operations.

“We’re exceptionally excited about the facilities we have set out to deliver on, including the only golf course currently being developed in SA.

“Every week we are seeing Zimbali Lakes come to life – from the curation of masterpiece homes to the completion of the gatehouse and the estate landscaping shaping the look and feel – it’s all coming together,” he says.

Different living options range from freehold stands where unique contemporary residences can be constructed, to penthouses, apartment suites, townhouses and retirement homes. The list of fitness, health and wellness signature amenities is unlimited and close to home.

LEADING LOCATION

Zimbali Lakes is fast becoming known as “the best address in town”. It aims to be a stylish oasis which combines sophisticated residential living close to a vibrant urban hub and bustling tourist nodes. It astutely combines recreational facilities with a myriad options for those who wish to live more privately. The estate is also purposefully pet-friendly. Zimbali Lakes is designed to ensure a holistic lifestyle surrounded by numerous amenities and panoramic scenery. This master planned development promises to enrich the town of Ballito, its surrounding neighbours and the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast as a whole – all of which is experiencing continued economic growth.

Declining buying activity suggests a downsizing trend

We summarise highlights from the FNB Residential Property Barometer and a special report on the impact of load-shedding on buyer preferences

WORDS: DEBBIE HATHWAY:: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

In August 2023, the growth of the FNB House Price Index slowed to 0.8% year on year, down from July’s 1.2% (revised from 1.1%). This decrease is attributed to a decline in demand, as indicated by the bank’s internally developed market strength index, which relies on its property valuers’ database.

FNB Senior Economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi notes that the supply of properties for sale remained relatively stable and that mortgage volumes are now tracking lower than pre-pandemic levels.

SURVEY INSIGHTS

FNB’s latest Estate Agents survey reveals that 67% of listed properties now take three months or more to sell, an increase from 56% in the second quarter of 2023. However, 50% of interviewed agents anticipate an uptick in activity in the next three months, especially in the affordable market, primarily due to seasonal factors.

Despite structural challenges such as electricity shortages and railway inefficiencies, recent macroeconomic data indicates resilience in domestic economic activity. The labour market has surprised, with formal employment returning to prepandemic levels. Nevertheless, wage growth lags rising living costs, with

compensation of employees increasing by 5% year on year in the second quarter of 2023, falling short of the 6.2% inflation rate during the same period.

Surveyed wage expectations suggest a potential wage growth increase above inflation next year, offering some relief to consumers.

LOAD-SHEDDING IMPACT

FNB also released a special report leveraging insights from the FNB Estate Agents Survey for the third quarter to qualitatively evaluate how the unprecedented intensity of load-shedding over the past year has influenced buyer preferences in the domestic property market.

Findings indicate a heightened demand for properties equipped with pre-installed solar solutions, particularly in the affordable market.

Mkhwanazi points out that most agents estimate the premium for such properties generally falls within the 0-5% range of the purchase price but can go as high as more than 15% in specific cases. This premium is partly driven by supply shortages in this segment, often resulting in buyer bidding wars. Conversely, pre-installed energy solutions play a less significant role in

buyers prefer customisation because they have better access to savings and funding options.

GLOBAL OUTLOOK

The ongoing global trend of decreasing inflation rates enables central banks to signal the conclusion of their interest rate hiking cycles.

Forecasts indicate domestic interest rates have peaked, with a possibility of a measured reduction cycle emerging in

the latter half of 2024. However, shortterm prospects carry an upside risk, where another rate hike could occur if the US Federal Reserve raises rates further or if unexpected inflation occurs. In the medium term, the risk leans toward the downside, where a significant global economic slowdown and decreased inflation could prompt central banks to implement rate cuts sooner than expected. Due to deteriorating affordability,

Increase in the installation of alternative energy solutions?

buying activity is declining across the market spectrum. Our indicators suggest a widespread trend of downsizing in the market, supporting buying activity in lower-priced segments.

The global housing market continues to experience moderation following a strong resurgence in 2021 and 2022. This moderation is primarily attributed to rising debt costs and inflation, limiting demand. Most countries’ real house prices are decreasing, with

Are

underlying factors differing between advanced and emerging economies. In developed economies, prices are retracting from high levels, supported by relatively robust labour markets and housing supply shortages. Conversely, emerging markets face challenges such as elevated real interest rates, sluggish income growth and higher postpandemic unemployment rates among younger demographics, resulting in subdued demand from first-time buyers.

FNB senior economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi

CORAL COVE IS BREAKING GROUND!

EXTRAORDINARY LIVING FOR THE BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE

We are delighted to announce that construction has commenced for Coral Cove.

With the July 2023 commencement date, move-in dates for residents will be before the end of 2024. All garden villas, apartments, communal areas and care centre of Coral Cove will be operational and complete, affording residents the opportunity to utilise the full array of Auria’s facilities and services.

Coral Cove by Auria Senior Living is a 21-hectare continuing-care, purpose-built retirement community for over 70’s, situated on the magnificent KZN North Coast, within the safety and serenity of the Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate.

2 & 3 Bedroom Garden Villas from R3,6m

1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments from R1,69m

BOOK A TOUR OF OUR SHOW UNIT.

Sales Enquiries: 087 537 0539 | coralcove@auria.co.za | www.auria.co.za

WeWork boosts Cape Town offering

Flexible co-working spaces are in demand, and the expansion of WeWork’s Strand Street location provides another top-tier solution for the business sector

WORDS: STAFF REPORTER :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

WeWork will welcome more than 250 new members to its Strand Street location in Cape Town from November 1. This is as WeWork South Africa announces a significant expansion to the space with the addition of an extra floor.

Andrew Robinson, executive director at WeWork South Africa, commented on the importance of the scale-up, saying: “This expansion emphasises our unwavering confidence in the dynamic enterprise sector in Cape Town, which

is home to some of the country’s largest corporates and most innovative growth-oriented start-ups.” He added that Cape Town was voted the best African destination for digital nomads in June this year, and that members of WeWork globally can seamlessly access all South African locations, while South African members can access the global WeWork network, which spans over 150 cities.

TOP-TIER WORKSPACES

The extension marks the first substantial growth initiative since

local pan-African property investor SiSebenza acquired WeWork South Africa in March, and demonstrates WeWork South Africa’s commitment to delivering top-tier flexible workspace solutions tailored for the South African business sector, focusing primarily on enterprise solutions.

Robinson highlights the relevance of today’s evolving work dynamics: “The modern workspace is shifting. Flexible co-working spaces are pivotal for cost efficiency and catalysts for creativity and collaboration. The added floor will feature diverse workspaces – from private offices to conference rooms – designed to amplify collaboration and productivity.”

In addition to their Strand Street location in Cape Town, WeWork has office buildings in Rosebank and Sandton in Johannesburg. The Strand Street expansion now marks a promising trajectory for the company in South Africa, and as the business realm transforms, WeWork South Africa have reaffirmed their goal “to be more than just a workspace, but a launchpad for success.”

DISTINCT AESTHETIC

Flexible office spaces have become an important component of the global work ecosystem, and the allure of WeWork locations includes workspaces with glass walls to maintain privacy without sacrificing transparency or natural light. Common areas have a distinct aesthetic that aim to inspire teams and the guests they bring into the building.

Private phone boxes, on-site staff and business-class printers are some of the amenities found at WeWork locations. There are also networking

events, lunch & learns and wellness activities, which facilitate unique opportunities to connect, learn and grow with the WeWork community.

Office space products suit everyone from one-person operations to global FTSE-100 companies. Their offerings include standard private offices for 1 to 20 people, office suites for 20 to 100 people and full floor offices

accommodating 100+ people.

COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES

WeWork was founded in 2010 with the vision to create environments where people and companies come together and do their best work.

Since then, they’ve become one of the leading global flexible space providers committed to delivering technology-

driven turnkey solutions, flexible spaces, and community experiences. WeWork South Africa is owned under a franchise partnership by SiSebenza. The pan-African real estate investor has exclusive rights to operate WeWork’s existing locations in South Africa and to grow and operate the WeWork franchise in Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria and South Africa.

We know that you are the decision maker. That’s why we have crafted a lifestyle where you don’t have to compromise or choose. Why limit yourself?

Zimbali Lakes is the number one destination to live in South Africa. Where else will you find a premium golf course, 20 hectares of lake and beach access? From masterful architecture, around-the-clock peace of mind and everything you could want and more steps away from your home.