Property360 - National Digital Magazine - 12 February 2021

PROPERTY

360 GLIMPSES OF OUR REMOTE FUTURE PA G E 3

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Napier and other small towns like it are luring many people with their promise of quieter, simpler days with most of the necessary conveniences.

PICTURE: SAM FOURIE

The good far outweighs the negatives of small town life Making the move from city to country life is not all sunshine and roses, although, with the right attitude, it can be

“I HAVE NEVER BEEN HAPPIER WITH LESS”

BY BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.za

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VEN though your mindset may be “right” for a move to the country, know that it may take about a year to adjust and slot into an entirely new lifestyle and community,” says Nikki Elliott of Country & Coastal Properties.

Many new residents struggle when they find themselves far away from the variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities they are accustomed to, although they thought they would not miss it when simply visiting their new areas, she says.

Other small-town issues could relate to service delivery, and on the KZN south coast, the Ugu District Municipality, for example, has water issues, says Chas Everitt’s Jennifer Duncan.

“There are also beggars at most robots, especially since Covid-19, and potholes in the national and suburban roads.”

But she adds: “It’s a beautiful lifestyle here so don’t dwell on the negatives as there are far more positives...

“The quality of life is a positive as there are more outdoor activities and less focus on material things. We also have good schools and a safer lifestyle.”

In KZN’s Underberg, though, some former city dwellers might not be happy with local schools and have to consider sending their children to boarding school, says Pam Golding Properties’ Angela Walker. In addition, the road between the N3 and the Underberg is in poor condition.

“New people want to make friends and be part of the community yet sometimes I find that they expect the community to come to them and that does not always happen. They have to go out and get to know others and find their niches...

“I also suggest they adapt their shopping and entertainment expectations.

“An afternoon out in the ‘Berg or

fishing in a river is just as entertaining as cinemas and shopping malls. And if they don’t like the potholes then don’t drive on the road – there is little that one cannot get locally, there are just fewer choices. But the lifestyle is well worth it.”

In small towns like Langebaan in the Western Cape, residents might also have to accept that hospitals are further away than they are used to and retail, services and commercial suppliers are limited,says Melanie Mouton-Creugnet of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s. In Knysna, the agency’s Sheena Mare says things don’t move quite as quickly as people are used to.

“This can cause frustration. ‘Outeniqua rust’ is a reality for some.”

She advise new residents: “Breathe deeply, enjoy a slower pace of life and be open to new opportunities, experiences and new friends. The new community will treat you as well as you treat it.”

Former city dweller Carola Koblitz, who now lives in Napier, says it is important for those looking to move to a small town to experience as much of the area they are considering before they move.

“Visit it on weekends and on weekdays.

Sleep over a lot. Even try to rent a house for a few weeks if you can. Spend time in the local pubs, restaurants and other venues and speak to and get to know people.”

She says they should also judge local amenities in terms of what you expect – from the shopping in town or close by, to the medical services available.

“Use social media to ask opinions from townspeople who have moved there and enjoyed it. What have property prices done over the past three years? But more than anything, visit, visit and visit again.

It’s a huge move to make and you need to be at least 80% sure you’re making the right one.”

Monika Elias has no regrets about leaving city life behind.

CAROLA Koblitz, a freelance writer, gave up her Cape Town city life in 2018 after promising herself – and her former employers – that she would move to the country to work remotely by the time she turned 60.

When this milestone arrived she sold her 14th floor 72m² apartment in the city and bought a new home in Napier, a village at the foot of the Soetmuisberg, between Caledon and Bredasdorp, in the Overberg region.

Almost three years later and Koblitz has “absolutely no regrets”, although she acknowledges that life in a small town comes with its “own special quirks”.

“This is because everyone knows everyone else’s business and you need to tread very carefully as a ‘newbie’.

“But, as far as missing the ‘big smoke’ goes, I can still do the occasional excursion to Cape Town for business and to get my mall fix, if I need it.”

However, she is needing it less and less.

“What I have learnt to do is cook a lot more (and better) than I ever did before.

“I get a lot of joy out of shopping for fresh produce, meat from local butcheries and other

things from farm outlets.

“Plus, my friends from Cape Town love to visit, when lockdown allows,” she says.

While Koblitz still works the same long hours, her retired friends in Napier talk about life being gentler in the country town.

They also feel much safer than they did in their former homes in Cape Town, Joburg and Pretoria.

Debbie Atkinson, who has just sold her childhood home in Durban – the property in which she brought up her family – has been hunting for property in the Southern Drakensberg area.

She wants a place with a small stream running through it, after a lifelong dream to live in the countryside.

“I have always loved the mountains and the countryside.

I just love being there. I find it refreshing and relaxing.

“Throughout my life I have visited all regions of the Drakensberg and the southern Drakensberg has always drawn me. To me, it is almost wild.

I just love the space and relative isolation it offers.”

The week after accepting an offer to purchase on her home she viewed homes and land in the Himeville and Underberg areas and noted that some of the properties lined up for her to view were sold before she could get to see them.

This, agents say, confirms the demand for property in these areas and the dearth of stock available in some price brackets.

Nonetheless, she found a property she loves – with a dam at the bottom – and her offer to buy it was accepted.

“I just love the house. It is unique and exactly what I was looking for,” she says.

For Capetonian Monika Elias, a six-month sabbatical in Redelinghuys, on the Cape West Coast, in 2019, made her consider moving there permanently.

“When I went back to the city, I felt things were bit off but life carried on, and then Covid hit.

After the first three months I was done with the city and headed back to Redelinghuys, where I stayed with a friend.”

Two months later, she decided to make the town her home, although she admits that there was a “big adjustment”. It was different staying there as a visitor to becoming a resident of a town where the nearest Pick n Pay is 100km away.

“There are no shops here,” she says.

In addition, her sabbatical had been in winter, while living there in summer – with the heat, insects and bats – was difficult.

“Being a single middle-aged woman working remotely is also challenging in a very small town.”

However, Elias has since found “her tribe”.

“I have zero regrets even though it has been challenging.

It’s taught me to be present and live in the moment – I say ‘yes’ a lot more.

“I live connected to nature.

There are no distractions and I am learning new things about myself every day.

“There are no coffee shops, gyms or retail therapy.

“It’s just you and your daily choices. I have never been happier with less...”

Her days are also “full and balanced” and she does not feel as much stress and anxiety as she did in the city.

“Busy has taken on a whole new meaning.”

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The peace and tranquillity of small-town life is luring many city dwellers away from the hustle and bustle.

Letter from the editor “THIS IS the year that I am going to buy property.”

This seems to be the mantra of many renters who want to take advantage of low interest rates – and certainly of those who have managed to hold on to their jobs

Head ing to coast & country

and can easily get a bond to buy a house.

And many people are happy to readjust their expectations as to where they will live. A mere two years ago, in cities such as Cape Town, living in the CBD or close to it put a huge premium on the price of a home because they avoided the traffic to get to and from work daily.

Now people are happier to venture into the suburbs or further

The various lockdowns and the ability to work remotely have meant an existing trend towards small-town living, and away from cities, has expanded during the pandemic

away from the centre.

Some, such as those in Bonny Fourie’s stories in this week’s magazine, are willing to go way out of their comfort zones and buy in the countryside.

For some, it’s the best retirement plan – selling a home in the city and being able to buy a house in the country for cash.

Added to that, things tend to be cheaper in the smaller towns.

People are more willing to explore than they were a few years back.

It’s a new world – and we are expanding in our lives as to what we will and won’t do when it comes to living arrangements.

Warm regards

Vivian Warby vivian.warby@inl.co.za

BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.za

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HE START of a new year often prompts deep introspection which sees people vowing to be happier, achieve their dreams or appreciate life for the precious gift it is. And if last year taught us anything, it is the value of family and life over material possessions.

So, it comes as no surprise that more people are looking to escape the bustle of city life for the relative simplicity and tranquillity of small towns. This trend has been growing over the years but appears to have been boosted by the pandemic and lockdowns.

In the Western Cape, there are many coastal and inland towns that have attracted city dwellers, particularly since the end of last year. Nikki Elliott of Country & Coastal Properties says most people had initially sought properties not too far from Cape Town but of late, with many able to work remotely, their searches have moved further afield.

“Many people want to get away from densely populated areas, and while some are not necessarily looking for permanent homes further afield, they are looking for country properties where they can either spend a fair amount of time or at least have a weekend escape from the hustle and bustle.

“Among those who have made a permanent lifestyle-changing move include young professionals with children, who are wanting to home school, and retirees.”

Beatrix Joubert, broker/owner of Re/Max Helderberg, reports that her offices in Somerset West and Strand have broken records since the hard lockdown ended.

“The Helderberg region has been attracting buyers not only from Cape Town but also from other provinces. Offering better-priced real estate compared to many parts of Cape Town, the area also has beautiful mountains, vineyards, great beaches, excellent schools and a relatively low crime rate.”

There is also a “constant flow” of interested buyers to Melkbosstrand, says Karen van Vuuren of Rawson Properties.

“Those coming from Gauteng lived in properties with top-of-the-range security but here they don’t need all these measures.

Buyers from the Parklands area feel the same.”

More people are also investing in Boland

towns like Paarl, says Lizette Joubert, franchisee for Rawson Properties in the area.

“I think people in cities and larger metros realise that their lifestyles have become very busy and, to an extent, impersonal. People still make time for each other in smaller towns. Another factor is that previously one would have had to drive to the cities to do certain types of shopping but over the years smaller towns have developed top-quality shopping centres and item-specific stores.”

Inquires from city dwellers wanting to move to Knysna and Sedgefield started in May when the country was still in hard lockdown, says Sheena Mare, broker principal for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in the area. Once the country moved to Level 3 in June, the numbers increased.

“Only once before in my 20-year career had I sold a property sight unseen but last year I sold three properties to buyers who submitted offers without viewing the properties.”

She believes the lockdown saw many people reassessing their lives and opting for less stressful lifestyles.

“And many people who had been working from home discovered that they didn’t have to be office bound and so didn’t need to live near work any more.”

This migration is also on the increase in the Winelands and Langebaan, with Lew Geffen Sotheby’s Chris Cilliers, chief executive and co-principal of the Winelands branch, saying the area offers idyllic country living within easy reach of the city, and “every amenity and facility one would need”.

The agency’s area specialist in Langebaan, Melanie Mouton-Creugnet, adds: “At the high end of the market you get much better value for money here than in the cities. I also think villages provide a better quality of family life as well as a less stressful environment with a lower crime rate.”

KwaZulu-Natal South Coast towns such as Amanzimtoti and Scottburgh are also attracting city dwellers, says Erine Kleyn, franchisee for Rawson Properties.

“People are living stressful lives in this day and age and they are looking for peace and quiet – a place to relax at the weekends, whether in their gardens or at the beach.”

Jennifer Duncan, principal of Chas Everitt South Coast, which operates in Hibberdene, Port Shepstone, Margate and Southbroom, says inquiries for properties in these areas started increasing in April – the first month of lockdown. Once the provincial borders opened there was “a rush” of people coming to view properties.

“There are a couple of reasons for this, including the rising number of people who are discovering they can work remotely; people opting to retire early and people fed up with the cold winters and high cost of living in Gauteng.”

In inland KZN, the southern Drakensberg’s Underberg area is a magnet for those looking to make big lifestyle changes, with Angela Walker, Pam Golding Properties’ principal in the area, reporting an increase in buyers from main metros and cities. This rise began soon after the first lockdown.

“People have realised that they miss wide open spaces and are now aware of how congested city life has become. There is also the short-term concern of further lockdowns in apartments or small city properties.”

Some people find that while they would love to make the move, it is not feasible from a work perspective, unless they can work from anywhere, online.

Many people, though, just want their children out of the city and in a better environment – and the lockdowns definitely had an impact on this, she says.

“They love the views and being in a country environment. They are looking for peace and quiet, walks in the mountains and friendly communities.”

Since May the Nottingham Road area in the Midlands has also been seeing an increase in interested buyers, says Pam Golding agents Rob McKenzie and Ewen Cameron. These include young professionals and families who are selling houses in cities and buying smallholdings and farms and into country developments.

“People want to get out of the cities and to keep their children away from shopping malls. They want space.”

The agency’s Sharon Spiers and Maureen Dix in Howick report that more retirees and families are moving to the area.

DISCLAIMER: The publisher and editor of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. Copyright ANA Publishing. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from ANA Publishing. The publishers are not responsible for any unsolicited material.

Publisher Vasantha Angamuthu vasantha@africannewsagency Executive Editor Property Vivian Warby vivian.warby@inl.co.za Features Writer Property Bonny Fourie bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.za Design Kim Stone kim.stone@inl.co.za

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Start your home buying process knowing exactly what you can offer.

Find your perfect match Expert advice on how best to avoid emotional turmoil when buying your first home

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F YOU do not want to have your heart broken by losing your dream home to someone else, then make sure you are 100% ready to commit.

And getting ready does not start with searching for your perfect match – you first need to know what you can offer.

“Most people go straight to the portals and start looking for houses to buy,” says Grant Gavin, owner of Remax Panache.

“They start dreaming about the property they want to buy and then, at some point, contact the agent.”

This, said Gavin in a Facebook Live event organised by the Sunday Tribune, is often followed by a viewing in which they fall in love with something about the home.

“We walk through and feel like this could be the home of our dreams. We imagine raising our children in it. We fall in love with it on an emotional level.

“We get to the point of putting in an offer and then hope we get the bond.”

The wait to hear whether a bond application is successful can take up to 14 days, and all this time the dreams grow. So when the call comes saying the application is declined, heartbreak ensues.

“Imagine dreaming about your whole future in that home and imagining your children growing up there – it is like a rug being pulled out from under your feet.”

To avoid this, Gavin says the first step in the buying process is not to house hunt but to work out what you can afford and have a bond originator assist with this and gaining preapproval.

“Once you have got that number, add to this the deposit amount you have saved up. Factor in transfer duty and then you know the price range

you can look at.

“This will avoid so much emotional turmoil.”

Aspiring homeowners should also have their paperwork ready for the bond application.

“There is a 21-day period for you to get your bond after putting in a written offer-to-purchase.

After this, the sale will fall through so make sure you do not waste that time trying to only then get your documents together.”

For employed buyers the banks will require three-months bank statement, proof of income,

“We walk through and feel like this could be the home of our dreams. We imagine raising our children in it. We fall in love with it on an emotional level.” and conduct a credit check. Self-employed buyers will need to have their business financial statements ready, even if they are buying the property in their personal capacity.

“As soon as the bank sees that you own a business, they will ask for those financials, so claiming that you get paid a salary from the business will not work” he says, emphasising that 21 days goes by quickly if one still has to get their documents in order.

“And if the seller gets a back-up offer during that time, he can accept it as soon as the 21-day

period is up.”

BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.za

HOW TO BUY THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS WHEN you are ready to start the hunt for your home, Grant Gavin offers the following advice: Location is the most important aspect to consider. Always buy the biggest house you can afford in the best area.

Your property will be valued in comparison to the rest of the properties in your street so if those are all bigger than yours it will affect your value favourably. Also consider where you work and where your children will go to school.

Go to the Town Planning department to get the property plans for that area. You do not want to buy before finding out that there is a massive freeway being built through the area, for example. Your estate agent will also have an idea of any developments planned for the area.

Register with the estate agents instead of just waiting for properties to be listed on the portals. They will know what properties are coming onto the market before they are listed so

they can contact you as soon as they hear of anything that will suit your needs.

Get a professional property inspection before you buy the property. Estate agents are not home inspectors.

An inspection report will cost you about R3000 to R4000 but in comparison to what you are paying for the home, it is minimal – but so worth it.

Often there will be issues with the house that not even the seller is aware of. And if this is the case, he or she cannot be held liable due to the ‘voetstoets’ clause.

View as many properties as you can. The more you view the better your understanding of value will grow. By comparing different properties you will be able to see which offers you more value – and this will not always be reflected in the price.

Also, never judge a book by its cover. Even if you do not like the outside, still view it as you never know what the inside holds. Similarly, a home that may look

a bit neglected inside or perhaps not to your personal liking may still be worth some minor work.

Gavin also explains that the three factors that affect property value and selling price, irrespective of market conditions which affect all properties equally, are: Location: identical properties in two different areas – for example one with a sea view and another on a freeway, will have different values, despite being the same in all other respects Condition: identical properties in the same street, but in different conditions – for example, one that is in pristine condition and another that has been neglected, will not have the same value or selling price Accommodation: identical properties in the same street, and in identical condition, will be set apart by the number of bedrooms they offer. The one that offers 3-bedrooms will have a higher value than the one that offers two bedrooms.

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W O R L D SOUTHERN SUBURBS SALES BOOM CAPE TOWN’S southern suburbs have been enjoying strong property sales over the past few months.

Buyers have been taking advantage of the suburbs’ value-formoney properties, access to good schools, abundance of lifestyle options as well as their decentralised office nodes, says Alexa Horne, the managing director of Dogon Group

Properties.

“We are seeing more and more buyers looking in the southern suburbs.

“The ongoing influx of Gauteng residents relocating to the Cape has also bolstered sales in these desirable, well-established and safe areas and we anticipate ongoing buoyant sales for some time to come.”

Furthermore, the southern suburbs

are close to the UCT campus.

“Areas such as Rondebosch and Newlands have an ever-increasing demand for student accommodation due to their proximity to UCT and, because of this, the southern suburbs have consistent upward trajectory in house prices, high rental return and high rental demand for students and young professionals,” Horne says.

Sellers might need to reconsider their listing price if their homes are taking a long time to sell.

ASKING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR PROPERTY?

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SELLER whose home is taking longer to sell than others in their market might need to reconsider their listing price, says Adrian Goslett, chief executive of Re/Max of Southern Africa.

Knowing the competition is “crucial” in this regard.

“As a rule of thumb, for those who hope to secure a timeous

sale, a property should be priced at an average of the top 10 cheapest listing prices of similar properties for sale in the area.”

While there are plenty of willing buyers these days, he says, buyers tend to understand the market well and will simply ignore the listings that fail to offer good value.

“Sellers need to remember

that, within the current economic situation, buyers are in need of a good deal just as much as the seller is in need of a good price,” Goslett says.

“While it is okay to leave some space for negotiation when setting the listing price, I advise sellers to list close to the low-end of their price point if they want to sell more quickly.”

Cape Town’s southern suburbs have seen vigorous property sales over the past few months.

More homes modified for work and pleasure

TIME TO MAKE YOUR DREAMS A REALITY

Many homeowners are renovating their houses to better cater for work and leisure.

Property is a strong, low-risk investment during periods of economic volatility.

THIS YEAR offers the perfect opportunity to invest in property, thanks to the rock-bottom interest rates, subdued property prices and plenty of stock available.

Craig Mott, Cape Town regional sales manager for the Rawson Property Group, says this is the “perfect year to make your property dreams a reality”.

This is why: • Easy leverage: No other investment class allows you to easily leverage other people’s money to buy an asset and still reap the full rewards of appreciation on its total value.

“Lenders are more motivated than they’ve been in a long time, to the point that they’re offering up to 104% loans, in certain cases.”

• Great interest rates: The combination of the recently slashed repo rate and lenders’ eagerness to sign up new bondholders means many applicants will get belowprime interest rates on their bonds.

However, to coax the very best offers out of lenders, Mott says buyers should still plan for a deposit, even if they qualify for a full-coverage bond.

• Low risk: With a consistent growth record over the past 50 years, Mott says property is one

of the most secure and stable investments available in today’s economic climate.

“Property tends to retain its value very well, even when other investment types are crashing.”

• Excellent growth prospects: Taken over the long term – 10 or 20 years, for example – returns on property investments can be exponential. Since the property market is currently at the bottom of a long, downward cycle, making a purchase this year almost guarantees buyers the excellent growth that comes with the next upswing.

THIS year’s residential property market will be driven by affordability, stability in the market, an increase in emigration and a lack of foreign buyers, says Only Realty owner Grant Smee.

Other trends he predicts for the market this year include: • Many people ensuring their homes are fit for business and leisure by doing home renovations or moving in order to work from home and enjoy spending more time there.

• Trendy areas becoming more affordable and accessible.

Vacant offices in these areas are fuelling a surge in conversions to residential developments.

• Remote working remaining a key driver for semigration.

• Co-living and micro-living will increase as people look to reduce overheads in a volatile economy.

• The need for increased safety and security continues to drive young professionals, couples and families to secure lifestyle estates.

• An increase in distressed property sales can be expected across the price spectrum.

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ESTATE AGENTS A special offer to

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What’s new in the

PICTURE: THOMAS BENNIE

Western Cape TO ADVERTISE HERE

Margi Marsland 084 591 9122

margi.marsland@inl.co.za

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shevon.philander@inl.co.za

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w w w. p ro p e r t y 3 6 0 . c o . z a

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BLOUBERG SANDS R3,950,000

Quality, elegance, ambience and serenity radiates from this beautiful home comprising of 4 double bedrooms (3 with TV connections (spacious Master Suite with en-suite) (2 bedrooms with air-con) and 2 full bathrooms (mes) located in the sought after popular area of Bloubergsands facing NW & wind protected! This home boasts three large living areas - entertainment/ games area, double volume lounge with combustion fire place & dining room off kitchen. All windows fitted with burglar bars & rollerblinds. The modern gourmet kitchen (counter stools included) comes fully fitted with gas/electric stove, granite tops and scullery with space for two appliances. Aluminium stacker doors open out onto a large covered patio area embracing the sparkling chlorine swimming pool (includes pool bubble cover). Large private established garden with irrigation system. Alarm system, electric fencing with perimeter garden beams. The double garage with drive through can accommodate 2/3 additional cars, direct access from garage into the house. Eco-friendly ceiling insulation. Thus ideally located, on My Citi bus routes, close to all amenities, few minutes drive to the popular sandy beaches and the Table Bay Mall. Satellite Dish. Wi-Fi connection. Potted plants included. Optional extra: furniture negotiable.

Don’t delay call today! Barbara 082 693 9443 / barbarai@just.property

AUCTIONS There is a commonly held belief that property auctions are a good place to pick up a bargain because auctioneers often handle sales in execution / property reposessions / liquidations.

Our dedicated auction section allows auctioneers to showcase their properties to buyers looking for these bargains.

THE AUCTION SECTION OF THE PORTAL OFFERS: • Advice to buyers • Auction news • Recommended auctioneers to deal with • Diary of upcoming auctions Contact LEIGH to get your listings visible 074 991 3373 or leigh@property360.co.za

www.property360.co.za

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MaurItIus welcoMes FIrst rawson ProPertIes FranchIse January marks a pivotal moment for Mauritius and the Rawson Property Group as the first yellow franchise opens its doors on the popular island destination. According to Rawson Property Group MD, Tony Clarke, this exciting expansion will provide ground-breaking investment opportunities for South Africans as well as local Mauritians.

“Mauritius has become a very popular emigration destination for South Africans, and is also aScreenshot 2020-11-11 at 09.19.51 favourite spot for business relocation and expansion,” says Clarke. “It has enviable political stability and an impressive track record of economic growth, with very liberal, business-friendly policies and extremely favourable tax laws.”

Indeed, with income tax capped at 15% and land transfer tax at 5%, Mauritius is a very tax-efficient destination for South Africans. Zero inheritance and capital gains tax only add to the appeal for those weighing up the benefits of long-term investments like property – something the new Rawson Properties Mauritius franchise will be able to facilitate for investors both on- and offshore.

“Next to the French, the second-largest number of foreign investors in Mauritius is now South Africans,” says franchisee, Isabelle Hardy. “That said, we also have buyers from Great Britain, Reunion, Madagascar, Australia, Canada, Belgium, Switzerland and China. Our buyers range from seasoned investors to seniors coming to retire, to working professionals and young couples looking for a safe, lifestyle-focused place to raise their families.”

Hardy says most South Africans tend to invest around the MUR8.5mil mark (ZAR3.2mil), although other foreign investments range all the way up to MUR39,860mil (ZAR15mil). The average 4-bedroomed villa on an erf of 1000m2 will cost upwards of MUR37,867mil (ZAR14,288mil), but more compact properties are available for far less.

“Foreign buyers are only allowed to buy freehold land,” says Hardy, “but there is a wide range of properties to choose from within that space. In fact, between the IRS [Integrated Resort Scheme] RES [Real Estate Scheme], and PDS [Property Development Scheme], there have been almost 150 new developments approved for foreign investment since our property market was opened up to international buyers.”

Nautilya in the north; Pointe d’Esny le Village on the southeast coast; and Akasha Villas and Asmara Beachfront Residences on the west coast.

“Beachfront and sea-view properties are the most expensive,” says Hardy, “with those across the coastal road with mountain views, for example, being more affordable. Price trends are stable, but demand is low because of Covid-19. During the pandemic we saw a lower demand from the European market and a high number of property enquiries from keen South Africans. With Covid-19 still prevalent, potential clients aren't able to visit Mauritius at the moment, and our team have been remotely interacting with these clients, providing as much digital information as possible.

Stable price trends, together with the depreciation of the Mauritian rupee against other currencies, means there are some great opportunities for foreign investors.”

Low-interest rates on offer from Mauritian lenders means locals can also get in on the action and take advantage of Mauritius’ incredible capital appreciation on properties. This typically ranges from around 35% to as much as 60% within 3 to 5 years.

Add to this gross rental yields of 3.5% to 4% per annum in prime developments, and it’s no wonder Mauritius has become such a popular investment destination.

“We’re very excited to be bringing the Rawson brand and Rawson property experience to Mauritius,” says Tony Clarke. “It’s a vibrant and unique country with a very exciting property market. We have every confidence that Isabelle and her team will be invaluable partners to local buyers and sellers as well as essential eyes and ears on the ground for investors from further afield.”

“We are very privileged to live on an amazing island with incredible people, places and properties,” adds Hardy. “We can’t wait to share our knowledge with buyers and sellers from around the world, supported by the best technology, tools, training and real estate network.”

If you're looking to own a property in Mauritius, check out www.rawson.mu and start your search now. For the latest market tips and industry news visit our website www.rawson.co.za.

Some of the more popular developments open to foreign nationals include: Le Parc de Mont Choisy Golf and Beach Estate, Rockview, Ki Resort Apartments, and

now it’s your turn. we made some big moves in 2020. www.rawson.mu

email join-us@rawsonproperties.com

In the last twelve months we’ve had over 500 new agents and 20 new franchises join the Rawson brand. The latest: Rawson Properties Mauritius!

If you’re looking for the tech, training and support to take your real estate career to the next level, get in touch.

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Your Neighbourhood Experts

we auctIon every wednesday enquiries: Office 079 980 3457

reserve PrIce: r12,500,000

Kenilworth Upper

tanya: 082 411 9599

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email: tanya.auctions@rawson.co.za

reserve PrIce: r2,900,000

web reF: 1084088

stylIsh hoMe wIth a seParate cottage. address: Mains Avenue, Kenilworth Upper erF sIze: 1667m2 This is a beautiful and elegant three-bedroom house with a separate onebedroom cottage. The main home has a large entrance leading into a dining room, lounge area and designer kitchen as well as a cloakroom. A sweeping staircase takes you to the first floor where you’ll find two ensuites and one family bathroom. The covered terrace overlooks the pool and manicured garden. exPected oPenIng BId: R1,400,000. ilda 084 762 7195 / Jenni 067 165 3737 oFFice 079 980 3457

University estate

reserve PrIce: r3,200,000

web reF: 1088164

well MaIntaIned & secure two-BedrooM house. address: Ritchie Street, Woodstock. erF sIze: 193m2 This beautiful two-bedroom house is in University Estate and is ideal for a new family as a start-up home. It offers two bathrooms, an open-plan lounge and a fitted kitchen. The modest garden has a pool area. There is secure parking for two vehicles. Potential rental income is approximately R15 000 per month. exPected oPenIng BId: R2,850,000.

reserve PrIce: r1,173,000

web reF: 1087051

two-BedrooM ground-Floor aPartMent. address: Fairmount Views, 2 Punters Way Kenilworth. unIt sIze: 56m2. Secure two-bedroom ground-floor apartment.

Open plan lounge & fully fitted Kitchen. One family bathroom.

Communal pool, clubhouse, and laundry room. Includes a single secure parking bay for exclusive use. exPected oPenIng BId: R1,100,000.

KUrt Johnson 078 832 0499 oFFice 079 980 3457

Kenilworth

web reF: 1085427

Four-BedrooM house wIth Flatlet. address: Heron Avenue, Van Riebeeckstrand. erF sIze: 203m2 Looking for a home with four bedrooms and two bathrooms? This home also has a lounge, open-plan dining area and kitchen. There is a laundry, braai area and a separate flatlet with two bedrooms.

For your cars, a double garage and parking space for four vehicles. exPected oPenIng BId: R2,990,000.

reserve PrIce: r1,299,000

web reF: 1083568

secure two-BedrooM aPartMent. address: Leresa Court, 3rd Avenue, Kenilworth. erF sIze: 80m2 Get your hands on this trendy two-bedroom apartment. It has one bathroom, an open-plan lounge leading onto a balcony, and a fully fitted kitchen. There is a secure parking bay, controlled access and CCTV system. exPected oPenIng BId: R1,000,000.

rondebosch

web reF: 1085897

secure one-BedrooM aPartMent. address: Deauville, Ednam Road, Rondebosch erF sIze: 41m2 Call us to view this one-bedroom apartment. You’ll find one bathroom, an open plan lounge, dining room and fully-fitted kitchenette. This apartment has a single garage and secure parking for one vehicle. The complex offers a communal garden area and controlled access. exPected oPenIng BId: R1,100,000. andrew 072 368 7581 oFFice 079 980 3457

barry neFdt 083 610 0778 oFFice 079 980 3457

reserve PrIce: r1,400,000

van riebeecKstrand

Janice boUgardt 071 687 0956 oFFice 079 980 3457

daniel paUlse 078 248 9701 oFFice 079 980 3457

reserve PrIce: r1,300,000

Kenilworth / FairmoUnt

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reserve PrIce: r3 000 000.00 as one lot

reserve PrIce: r3,800,000

reserve PrIce: r1 500 000.00 individUally

Zonnebloem

web reF: 1080308

two-BedrooM ground Floor aPartMent. address: Skyways, Drury Street, Zonnebloem. unIt sIze: 62m2 This neat ground floor apartment offers two-bedrooms, and a family bathroom. The open-plan kitchen and lounge have scenic views.

Within the complex, you can enjoy the communal pool. A secure parking bay is available for one vehicle at an additional cost. exPected oPenIng BId: R1,350,000.

Karen petersen 083 495 0987 oFFice 079 980 3457

maitland

web reF: 1087934

2 x three-BedrooM seMI-detached houses. currently zoned coMMercIal oFFIce. address: Spencer Street, Maitland erF sIze: 137m2. Buy the whole lot or an individual plot! Each property consists of an attractive three-bedroom, semi-detached house with one bathroom and a separate toilet. The living area offers an open-plan lounge and dining space with a fitted kitchen, or head outside to the braai area. There is off-street parking for two vehicles. The property is zoned for a commercial office. Rental income is R10 000 per month, per property. exPected oPenIng BId: R1,450,000 Individually. walter hansby 082 907 2333 / JUdy bUrrows 082 836 1055 oFFice 079 980 3457

soUthField

web reF: 1081084

coMMercIal oFFIce sPace. address: Princess Vlei Road, Southfield. erF sIze: 801m2 This property is ideal for development, office space or an owner occupier. It consists of four offices, workshop, storage space, kitchenette and bathroom. The property is very secure with an electric fence, alarm system and enclosed parking for fifteen cars. exPected oPenIng BId: R3,000,000. diana 083 260 2343 / marc 064 938 1719 oFFice 079 980 3457

www.rawson.co.za

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ADVERTISING PLATFORM We provide a complete advertising solution to reach subscribed property buyers

Access the following advertising platforms under one account: • Property Portal Online Listings • Banner Slots • Featured Agent Slots • Digital Magazine • Newspapers • Cape Community Newspapers • Brand Editorial Content • Social Media Reach • Weekly Newsletter

We also do HOME LOANS A mortgage origination solution to assist your buyers, so send your clients our way and you can advertise your listings on our portal for… FREE Best interest rates from all major banks and speedy approvals Contact us to package the right deal for you help@property360.co.za

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What’s new in KwaZulu-Natal

PICTURE: HOMEMADE MEDIA

TO ADVERTISE HERE Anne Reddy

0 8 2 8 2 8 0 0 1 0

Larissa Marks 0 7 6 2 3 1 1 0 8 9 advertising@property360.co.za

anne.reddy@inl.co.za larissa.marks@inl.co.za w w w. p ro p e r t y 3 6 0 . c o . z a

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The depictions herein are for illustration purposes only and are subject to change without prior notice.

Sibaya’s new exclusive Dive into a seaside culture that is yet to be introduced into the sought-after Sibaya Coastal Precinct.

Brought to you by Devmco Group, Salta Sibaya is perched above Umdloti and offers beautiful sea views. Salta presents spacious, pet-friendly freestanding homes starting from R2,95 million. Enjoy having ever ything within close proximity, from the beach and an onsite shopping centre, to a dynamic corporate office space.

Salta Sibaya will set the precedent for how South Africans will live in the future within a vibrant mixed-use community.

LAUNCHING

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2021

+

+

+ Green parks

Business hub

Family adventure zones

Outdoor fitness spaces

+ Onsite shopping centre

Community leisure centres

The depictions herein are for illustration purposes only and are subject to change without prior notice.

REGISTER FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH INVITATION - WWW.SALTASIBAYA.CO.ZA

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FEW T S LA HE T M FRO PER O L E DEV

Freestanding 3 bedroom homes from R3 450 000 You could own a modern Farm Style home in the heart of the economic stronghold Sunshine on your face and grass under your bare feet!

This is how you’re supposed to live Your own garden, lock-up double garages and spacious rooms Communal Park and Pool

Call now 081 281 3960 to view by appointment! www.woodland.co.za | info@woodland.co.za 2 Woodlands Close, Prestondale, Umhlanga

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PRIME ESTATES ON SHOW SUN 2 - 4:30PM

OFFI­CE 031 767 1217 www.primeestates.co.za

NEW SOLE MANDATE

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SUE DINNIE 082 491 5822 www.capcubed.com

ON SHOW SUN 2 - 4:30PM

SOLE MANDATE

WATERFALL AREA/CRESTVIEW R1 795 000

GILLITTS R1 895 000

IDEAL EXTENDED FAMILY HOME On an acre of mature garden, large solid 4 bed home with 2 baths, 2 lounges, dining room, fitted kitchen, covered verandah, single garage, carport, pool & excellent security.

PLUS: Self-contained Studio apartment AND separately fenced 2 bed cottage. All have pre-paid elelctricity meters and tiled floors. Ideal as a rental property. Boards from Waterfall Centre Robots. Call ANN 072 425 9411 • Web: 109247540

COMPLETELY RENOVATED - ALL BRAND-NEW FINISHES!!

Stunning in pastel grey & white - 3 beds, 3 baths, gorgeous Caesar-stone kitchen, large open plan living area & a double auto garage. End unit with corner garden & views. Medium dog, no cats. Close to new Checkers. Move in now! Follow boards from new Gillitts Checkers Call DEBBIE 082 903 2024 • Web: 108971396

VIEW BY APPOINTMENT

NEW SOLE MANDATE

ASSAGAY AREA R1 699 000

SUPER-SECURE SIMPLEX - NO STEPS & PET FRIENDLY!!

Entertainer’s dream verandah... 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge with fireplace, sep dining room, a large kitchen, single garage + carport. Fully walled garden. Levy covers garden mowing & all exterior maintenance.

Easy access to M13, N3, New Hospital and Hillcrest Centre.

Call DEBBIE 082 903 2024 • Web: 100401625 VIEW BY APPOINTMENT

SOLE MANDATE

WATERFALL 2 R1 695 000

FAMILY WINNER WITH HUGE OFFICE/EASY COTTAGE CONVERSION 4 Bedroom home with 2 bathrooms, open-plan lounge/dining room, compact granite kitchen. Separate laundry room, staff ablutions, PLUS huge separate home office or easy granny cottage conversion. Double garage & double carport, all on level garden. Great location and fantastic price.

Call AMANDA 079 528 0942

VIEW BY APPOINTMENT

NEW SOLE MANDATE

KLOOF R3 900 000

GOLF COURSE AREA - CLASSIC MANSION WITH ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES Main House: Upstairs has 4 /5 beds, 3 baths, huge games room/office with o/ side access. Downstairs - 2 lounges, d/room, kitchen, superb entertainment lounge + built-in braai & guest loo. Cottage: 2 beds, 1 bathroom & large workshop/ garage. This versatile home is set in a level garden, with pool, boma, carports for 5 cars, staff facilities & views to the sea! Call AMANDA 079 528 0942 VIEW BY APPOINTMENT

SOLE MANDATE

KLOOF R1 375 000

DOWNSIZING OR STARTING OUT - PERFECT!!

Delightful, sectional title home (only 2 in the complex), with 2 bedrooms, a full bathroom, open plan living, melamine kitchen, plus a large office/3rd bedroom. Carport, private fenced garden, small shed, staff toilet & a large wooden shed /dbl carport. Pet friendly.

Call DEBBIE 082 903 2024 • Web: 108883312

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KLOOF / PADFIELD PARK LIVE THE LIFE YOU'VE IMAGINED

FROM R1 450 000 NO TRANSFER DUTY

BUSHWILLOW VALLEY IV

OVER 50s LEISURE LIFESTYLE ESTATE NOW SELLING OFF-PLAN 2 & 3 Bedroom Sectional Title Units Now selling off-plan, in a variety of different size and layout design options, Bushwillow Valley IV offers 16 two and three-bedroom sectional title units in the heart of Greenhaven Estate. Featuring contemporary country-style architecture, these spacious, single-level units come with an open-plan design and a selection of modern finishes.

LEISURE LIFESTYLE ESTATE FOR OVER 50s

BOOK AN ESTATE TOUR / CALL 079 046 1441 / GREENHAVENESTATE.CO.ZA

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HOME LOANS

Now is the time to find out how much you qualify for as the repo rate is at a record low.

Celestine is always available to take your call and guide you through the process from application through to registration.

She will pre-qualify you for a home loan before you start house hunting.

A pre-approval is very useful when house hunting as it helps the agent narrow down which properties to show you and not waste unnecessary time.

Complete one application and she will apply to all 4 major banks and negotiate the best interest rate on your behalf.

Call her for quick and efficient service Please feel free to contact Celestine at any time on 084 559 1786 | celestine@property360.co.za

www.property360.co.za

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