Exclusive Collection | Edition 14 | Autumn 2023

FRANCOIS VENTER LEAD AGENT | THE UPPERS

Dear valued reader,

Welcome to the 14th Edition | Exclusive Autumn Collection | The Uppers. We are delighted to present our latest edition, which is packed with a selection of top homes for sale with insightful articles, market and suburb insights.

As one of the leading real estate agencies in the industry, Seeff | The Uppers is committed to providing our clients and readers with the most comprehensive and transparent market and suburb insights. Our team of experienced agents are dedicated to delivering unparalleled service and expertise, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible advice and guidance throughout the buying, selling, or renting process.

In this edition, we have included a range of informative articles that cover various topics, including community news, industry and market updates, legal updates, and more. We believe that staying informed about the latest trends and developments in the real estate industry is essential for our clients and readers, and we are committed to keeping you up to date.

Our team is made up of experienced and passionate individuals who are dedicated to providing the best possible service to our clients. We believe that our success is due to our commitment to transparency, professionalism, and integrity, and we are always looking for ways to improve and innovate our services.

We hope that you find this edition of our magazine informative and enjoyable. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like to discuss any of the properties and insights further.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Future is bright

Since inception in 2020 the #SeeffUppersTeam have been a force in the residential real estate industry and marketplace, constantly ranking amongst the company’s top performers in sales volume with a total of 144 sales concluded, over R1,2 Billion in sales turnover with over R42,7 Million in GCI over 3 consecutive years.

This winning team has set new standards in residential real estate sales, constantly pushing the limits of what is possible in the #SouthernSuburbsUppers market.

2022 Annual Awards:

1) Achiever Satus

2) Ooba - Highest Bond Value

3) #1 Highest Units - Regional and National - Teams

4) #1 Highest Turnover - Regional and National - Teams

5) National Chairman’s Award - Awarded on one individual annually, chosen by Samuel Seeff.

Congratulations to each member of our team!

FROM LEFT: Carol Booysen, Megan Higgs, Helga Agnew, Paul Sale, Francois Venter, Liza Snijman, Marinda Bienz, Janine Heiberg. ABSENT: Natalie Ridl, Stephen Buerger, Blake Steenkamp.

LOCAL EXPERTISE GLOBAL REACH

Community

INVESTING IN NEIGHBOURHOODS AND NURTURING COMMUNITIES IS PART OF OUR SUCCESS

There are two reasons why estate agents should passionately invest in the areas and communities in which they work.

The first and most obvious reason is that it makes good return-on-investment business sense to plough money, time and the backing of a sizeable brand like Seeff into maintaining the value of an area. Secondly, without regular and focused contributions to the care and social health of a neighbourhood, real estate is just a numbers game - and the truth is that real estate is not just about property, but about people.

For the Seeff Uppers Team who operate in Constantia Upper, Bishopscourt, Claremont Upper, Kenilworth Upper and Newlands caring for the properties and people in these areas is focused on preserving the beauty of the environments and contributing to the security and safety of the communities.

The following two community sponsorships bring this sentiment to life.

Community

K9 Seeff Graduates to Join Constantia Watch’s K9 Dog Unit

There’s no doubt that Constantia Watch is one of the City of Cape Town’s most professional, private neighbourhood organisations. First established in 2007 by local residents, today Constantia Watch is made up of about 1900 members out of approximately 2250 households in the area.

In addition to the mobile trail cameras for use in the mountain and greenbelts and thermal night vision equipment, it boasts a K-9 unit and a highly effective special response team and two vehicles that operate around the clock.

According to Lead Agent for Seeff’s Uppers Team, Francois Venter, Constantia residents love animals and it, therefore, made perfect sense to sponsor the purchase and monthly upkeep of a second canine unit to join “KC”, one of the best tracking dogs in Cape Town.

“We are delighted that K9 “Seeff” has just completed his K-9 training diploma resulting in him now being qualified to be a patrol dog. “Seeff” is learning fast and shows excellent promise to be as good as “KC”.

Both KC and Seeff are Belgian Malinois K9s and work 12-hour shifts and stay in service for approximately eight to ten years.

“Having the service of such a highly professional and active neighbourhood watch in Constantia is certainly one of the many aspects that contribute to the overall value of the area. Even so, residents should view this service as a complement, and not a replacement, for a dedicated alarm response company,” advised Venter.

Keeping the Constantia Green Belts Pristine

Part and parcel of living in Constantia is being able to enjoy its many exquisite natural greenbelts.

The Seeff Uppers Team are officially sponsoring the efforts of Pristine Pathways to help preserve the environment. To date, a total of 4755 bags of waste, which translates to 18 bags per day, have been removed from Constantia’s greenbelt areas. Pristine Pathways is a subsidiary of Pristine Earth Collective, a non-profit organisation who are on a seismic mission to stop all plastic from going into South African oceans and landfills by 2025.

“For the discerning buyer who wants luxury, nature and security for their families in a quiet and beautiful neighbourhood, both of these initiatives align well to maintain general confidence in Constantia,” concluded Venter.

Constantia Upper

Nestled beneath Table Mountain National Park and commanding vistas of the picturesque Constantiaberg and Table Mountain ranges lies the scenic & exclusive suburb known as Constantia. The suburb is blessed with beauty, lush greenbelts, award-winning wine estates and various acclaimed restaurants. One of the greatest writers in the English language, Jane Austen also makes mention of Constantia in her first published novel “Sense and Sensibility”, recommending a little Constantia “for its healing powers on a disappointed heart.”

“Constantia still remains closely connected to its history as a rural agricultural area and has simply evolved over the decades to ensure that the conveniences and luxuries of life are not too far from reach”.

Francois Venter, Liza Snijman & Natalie Ridl – Area Specialists

Area Insights

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CONSTANTIA UPPER | R35 000 000 A PRIZED PIECE OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 5.5 Garages 4 Erf 5 257m2

Loose yourself in the history and the magnetic charm of this meticulously restored and magnificent Victorian beauty, showcasing authentic architectural detail with many gorgeous, traditional, and classic features throughout. It is a style of home where the heart ends up overruling the head, making it a truly remarkable and one-of-a-kind purchase.

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

LIZA SNIJMAN 082 805 7005 | liza.s@seeff.com

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Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 5 Garages 4 Erf 8 058m2

Luxurious living, Immaculate finishes and situated on the most spectacular 2 acres in the prestigious Constantia Winelands. Zonnehof is an exquisite home in the sought after pocket of Alphen on the door step of the historic Alphen Hotel with close access to the Alphen Trial, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts!

NATALIE RIDL 082 307 2337 | natalie.ridl@seeff.com FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

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CONSTANTIA UPPER | R29 995 000

CONSTANTIA GRANDEUR

Bedrooms 9 Bathrooms 6 Garages 4 Erf 4 014m2

This grand, custom-built home is set in a tranquil garden surrounded by mature trees on a sought after street in Upper Constantia. With 5 reception rooms, 2 kitchen’s, multiple entertainment areas and 6 bedrooms, this home is an ideal opportunity for dual living or an expanding family. The ultimate entertainers home with multiple balconies, offering lovely far views to the ocean.

NATALIE RIDL 082 307 2337 | natalie.ridl@seeff.com

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

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Located in one of the most desirable Constantia Upper neighbourhoods, at the end of a 24h manned cul-de-sac. This custom designed residence with breath-taking elevated mountain and valley views, provides a superior lifestyle with countless spaces to entertain family and friends on a grand scale!

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CONSTANTIA UPPER | R23 500 000

LARGE FAMILY HOME ON ALMOST TWO ACRES

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4.5 Garages 4 Erf 7 653m2

Offering luxurious space, nature and family life in exclusive Upper Constantia. This private, luxury, family home, in an elevated position in one of Upper Constantia’s most sought-after locations, Belle Ombre, has been well designed to maximise breath-taking, 180° views, that include the False Bay ocean and sculpted mountain-side vineyards.

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

LIZA SNIJMAN 082 805 7005 | liza.s@seeff.com

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Nestled in a quiet, lush cul-de-sac with breathtaking North-facing views of stunning mountains. This home offers unparalleled luxury with its impressive double volumes, 5 spacious bedrooms, all en suite, a games/entertainment room, a wine cellar, a bar, 4 garages, and staff accommodation.

CONSTANTIA UPPER | R19 500 000

TWO STAND ALONE HOMES - OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY

Bedrooms 7 Bathrooms 6 Garages 2 Erf 4 906m2

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac offering the ultimate in privacy and tranquility. This stunning property spans just under 5000 square meters, providing ample space for relaxation and outdoor activities. Featuring two standalone homes, this property is perfect for dual living arrangements, providing separate spaces for family members or guests.

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

LIZA SNIJMAN 082 805 7005 | liza.s@seeff.com

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CONSTANTIA UPPER | R17 500 000

GORGEOUS FAMILY HOME IN A TRANQUIL SETTING

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4 Garages 3 Erf 3 748m2

Welcome to this stunning North facing family home situated in the sought-after area of Constantia Upper, nestled in a lush park-like setting down a tranquil lane. This impressive property boasts a sizable erf, with a lovely level lawn, offering ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation.

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

LIZA SNIJMAN 082 805 7005 | liza.s@seeff.com

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CONSTANTIA UPPER | R11 500 000

A HOME FOR FUN & RECREATION

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 5 Garages 2 Erf 2 536m2

Welcome to this beautiful and spacious 5 bedroom, all en-suite home set on 2536m2 and located in a secure and quiet cul-de-sac in the sought-after area of Constantia Upper. Boasting stunning mountain views from the well-manicured garden, this property is sure to impress. This home boasts excellent indoor/outdoor living.

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

LIZA SNIJMAN 082 805 7005 | liza.s@seeff.com

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CONSTANTIA UPPER | R8 250 000 EXCEPTIONAL VALUE IN A TRANQUIL SETTING

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garages 2 Erf 1 359m2

This much-loved family home is situated in a desirable pocket of Constantia Upper in a beautiful and quiet treelined road and offers an idyllic lifestyle. This single storey North-facing home is set on a generous 1367m2 of established gardens and a sparkling pool. FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830

Bishopscourt

Set against the slopes of Table Mountain surrounded by lush vegetation, gracious oak treelined avenues, and sweeping panoramic vistas lies the idyllically located, pristine suburb of Bishopscourt.

Former South African president Nelson Mandela spent his first night of freedom after 27 years of imprisonment in the very residence of our then Archbishop of Cape Town, Desmond Tutu. The following day Mandela hosted a press conference at the estates garden, before acquiring his very own home within this exclusive, residential enclave years later. Today, the small, prestigious suburb is dotted with top-end, luxury properties owned by the British High Commissioner, the US ambassador, business executives, families, and other various local and international personalities.

Natalie Ridl & Francois Venter – Area Specialists

“With unbeatable mountain views, agriculturally zoned erven and limitless potential it is quite evident as to why Bishopscourt is home to an elite group of both local and international residents”.

Area Insights

This captivating Bishopscourt home with separate two bed cottage, offers a unique and creative lifestyle with connectivity to the landscape being fundamental to its core design. An expansive sweeping forecourt with four-car garaging, leads the way to the dramatic double-height glass entry and onwards into a light filled foyer, setting the tone of this inspired home.

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Inspired by the iconic Golden Era, this generously proportioned family home surrounded by manicured lawns, lush foliage and century old trees oozes Hollywood Glam in every shape and form.

One of a kind, this custom home has deliberately been invented to create a stylish yet relaxed retreat for family and friends to gather. Situated in a sought-after close with 24 hour monitored security, this unique three-level residence offers sensational indoor/outdoor living with walls of windows and lashings of space, designed to amplify its prized elevated position.

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BISHOPSCOURT | R18 500 000

DESIGNED TO AMPLIFY ITS PRIZED ELEVATED POSITION

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 5 Garages 3 Erf 2 671m2

The property’s location is unbeatable, situated on the doorstep of the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, with easy access to top schools in the Southern Suburbs and the University of Cape Town. You’ll enjoy quick and convenient access to all the amenities you need, including shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

NATALIE RIDL 082 307 2337 | natalie.ridl@seeff.com

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

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One of a kind, this premium Bishopscourt Village home has deliberately been designed to create a stylish yet relaxed environment for family and friends to gather. Split over three levels, with an expansive lounging roof-top terrace plus Jacuzzi and breath-taking mountain views, offering a unique and desirable aspect to this inspired home.

NATALIE RIDL 082 307 2337 | natalie.ridl@seeff.com

FRANCOIS VENTER 083 735 1830 | francois.venter@seeff.com

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Claremont Upper

The exclusive suburb of Claremont Upper referred to by many as the heart & soul of the Southern Suburbs. Known for its thriving commercial and residential hub that prides itself on its continuous growth and development. From the soaring trees that offer shaded pathways to the colourful flowers that bloom throughout the suburb, it is clear that Claremont’s soil was once fertile land with its origins dating back as far as the 18th century. Claremont is derived from the French and translates to “clear mountain”.

“With a variety of properties to choose from to meet various needs and wants, Claremont Upper includes many opulent properties with sprawling grounds and tree-lined avenues. With residents and visitors spoilt for choice in all areas of life, it is clear as to why Claremont Upper is one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in the Southern Suburbs”

Area Insights

CLAREMONT UPPER | R12 495 000

LUXURY AT ITS BEST IN SECURE ESTATE

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4.5 Garages 2 Erf 956m2

This elegant home offers five spacious bedrooms. The home has excellent open plan living with fabulous flow to an expansive covered patio, boasting frameless stackable doors and a built-in braai. The property faces north, allowing for plenty of natural light, and the secure private garden includes a sparkling heated pool for children to enjoy.

HELGA AGNEW 083 457 5028 | helga.agnew@seeff.com

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Different, interesting, beautiful, unique doesn’t even begin to explain this beautiful home. This North facing home offers an authentic Japanese feel with modern touches.

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CLAREMONT UPPER | R7 950 000

A SPACIOUS NORTH FACING HOME SEEKING A NEW FAMILY

Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Parkings 4 Erf 1 164m2

The house combines classic features like high ceilings, wooden floors, and large rooms with modern elements. The home offers 3 roomy bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a huge kitchen, and a breakfast nook. This home includes a formal living room with a fireplace, a dining room, and an integrated bar.

HELGA AGNEW 083 457 5028 | helga.agnew@seeff.com

GRAND LADY WITH HUGE POTENTIAL!

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garages 1 Erf 495m2

North facing home, looking for the right family to make it their own. Plenty of original features from wooden floors, wood wall panelling to high ceilings.

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garages 2 Erf 601m2

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an open-plan living area with a great flow between the kitchen, lounge, and dining room. There’s even a separate TV room for those cozy movie nights. This stunning double-story home seamlessly blends traditional and modern features. HELGA

This beautiful 4-bedroom home proudly shows glimpses of timeless elegance. With many traditional features still in place from the wooden floor, high ceilings to the beautiful sash windows. The home consists of a formal lounge leading to the dining area.

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Kenilworth Upper

Flanked by the Constantia Winelands and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, nestled between Claremont and Wynberg lies the prestigious suburb of Kenilworth Upper. Although well established, Kenilworth still oozes with old-world char m, boasting a variety of architecture, with some properties still typically Victorian, whilst others designed by Sir Herbert Baker have been specifically designed in the Arts and Crafts style of the early 1900s.

“This quiet suburb is favoured by many, offering residents the perfect balance between the hustle and bustle of city life and the laid-back lifestyle of suburbia, making Kenilworth Upper a popular suburb choice amongst young couples and families with a great sense of community”.

Paul Sale – Area Specialist

Area Insights

KENILWORTH UPPER | R11 950 000

A TOUCH OF ENGLISH CHARM WITH ALL THE MODERN REFINEMENTS

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garages 3 Erf 1 298m2

This North facing home has been tastefully renovated to highlight and incorporate the historical Tudor style features which include wrought iron chandeliers, lead paned bespoke windows, rich hardwood floors and exposed ceiling beams that all mull together to create an enchanting country atmosphere with all the modern conveniences right at your fingertips.

PAUL SALE 082 959 6783 | paul.s@seeff.com

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This character-filled family home with original features is ideally located offering excellent dual living. Separate self contained flatlet with private paved garden area. Ideal teen pad.

Newlands

Nestled on the eastern foothills of Table Mountain, lies the picturesque suburb of Newlands, one of South Africa’s oldest neighbourhoods, well known as Cape Town’s ‘green’ suburb due to its magnificent views and oak-lined avenues.

Newlands is arguably one of the most beautiful suburbs in the city, encompassing top-notch residential, commercial, educational, and recreational facilities. With its quiet, narrow, treelined streets, Newlands feels like a self-contained village, slightly separate from the city with the mountain and forest adding a touch of magic to this lively neighbourhood.

“With a mixed range of properties from multi-level homes in Fernwood, to quaint cottages in the village on offer, this desirable suburb is a fusion of natural beauty, community, and heritage and it is exactly for this reason why homeowners have been residents of Newlands for many years and counting.”

Stephen Buerger & Marinda Bienz – Area Specialists

Area Insights

This secure, private and well appointed home has so much to offer. North-West aspect allows for plenty of natural light to cascade in. Pristine garden with unique riverside access on the Cannon river. This is a must see property.

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NEWLANDS | R9 950 000

NORTH FACING FAMILY HOME WITH FANTASTIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS

Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2.5 Garages 2 Erf 992m2

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, double garage, 1 extra secure parking bay, swimming pool, staff quarters and staff bathroom. Located in a quite street in the Fernwood pocket. Within walking distance from the gorgeous Liesbeeck River Park where all the locals picnic and walk.

MARINDA BIENZ 083 926 1553 | marinda.bienz@seeff.com

Rare Find - Adjacent plot for sale - R4 950 000. Can be sold together or separately. This family home offers easy and relaxed living. Close to all leading Southern Suburbs schools. Don’t miss out on this prized property!

NEWLANDS | R7 500 000

PERFECT FOR A HOLIDAY HOME OR AN INVESTMENT PURCHASE

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 3.5 Garages 2 Erf 496m2

This property is currently being rented until 31 January 2024 but is open to Investment buyers that would like to take over the tenant and lease, at R40 000/m. Set on the slopes of Table Mountain with magnificent views of the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, this gorgeous property, set on 3 levels, is positioned perfectly for easy access to UCT, major schools and the CBD.

MARINDA BIENZ 083 926 1553 | marinda.bienz@seeff.com

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FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY AWAITS IN SOUGHT AFTER NEWLANDS

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 5 Parkings 3 Erf 481m2

This family home is located in the sought after Vineyard pocket and is close to all leading schools. Previously used as a guest house, student digs and most recently on Airbnb, this home is a Jack of all trades and needs to be viewed.

Property Tips

OFF-THE-GRID SOLAR AND WATER SECURITY IS BECOMING

AN EXPECTATION FROM HOME BUYERS

Enquiries from potential homebuyers regarding the power and water security of properties have become the norm.

According to the Seeff Uppers Team Lead Agent, Francois Venter, agents are being faced with questions on a daily basis about whether a property has solar, inverters, boreholes and water tanks. In addition, there is the question of how much this technology adds to the value of a home.

“Adding water and electricity security can help to maximise the market value of a home. And with the electricity and power crisis not going away, it is fast becoming an expectation, says Venter.

Will Solar Panels and Boreholes Add Value to a Home?

““To answer the question about how much value it adds, it stands to reason that if you didn’t have it, you would need to install it. The approach should be to look at natural resource solutions like solar and boreholes as a long-term investment,” says Venter.

Pressure on Cape Town’s services is likely to increase as more people relocate to the Western Cape. On 20 February 2023, The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Services reported that the dams servicing the city are only at a collective capacity of 56.8 % full, compared to 81.3%, during the same time last year.

“As the pressure on municipal grids increases, sustainability investments like solar panels will pay themselves off over time, while they also offer freedom from disruption,” says Venter.

If there is a silver lining, there are several public and private sector initiatives to help homeowners become more off-the-grid.

The City of Cape Town’s Solar Panel Incentive to Homeowners

For Cape Town residents who have been considering investing in solar systems, the idea has recently become more attractive.

In a recent announcement by the City of Cape Town, homeowners who wish to produce their own solar power, without limit, now have the opportunity to sell it back to Cape Town’s grid.

Further National Government and Private Sector Relief

In addition, the National Treasury has also just announced the availability of R4 billion in tax incentive relief. In short, it is offering a 25% rebate for solar installation to homeowners who install solar PV panels before 29 February 2024.

For instance, if a homeowner invests in 10 solar panels at R40 000, this could reduce their personal income tax for the year 2023/2024 by R10 000. There are, however, important restrictions and stipulations. The main one is that this rebate is capped at R15 000 regardless of how much is spent.

8 major points to bear in mind concerning the rebate for residential homeowners include the following:

• It is limited to solar PV panels and not installation costs or portable panels, batteries and Inverters.

• Diesel generators do not qualify.

• Only new and unused panels will qualify.

• Only solar PV panels with a minimum capacity of 275W qualify.

• Only panels that are installed at a residence for domestic purposes qualify.

• Homeowners will need to prove installation and provide an electrical compliance certificate.

• The solar PV panels must be connected to the mains distribution of the private residence.

• The rebate is capped at R15 000.

There’s no doubt, resources that have previously been taken for granted are becoming high-value items.

“It is encouraging to see how local and national government are prepared to partner with homeowners to provide incentives and relief. Apart from the major banks who all extend sustainability loans to assist with liquidity, there are also private companies who offer rental agreements and private funding for equipment. “ concluded Venter.

Home is where one starts from.

T.S. Eliot