Business Day HomeFront 03 April 2020

HOMEFRONT 13 OCTOBER WWW.BDLIVE .CO.ZA SSLIVE.CO.ZA 3 APRIL 2020 2016 WWW.BUSINE

MUST-READ

Special offer: luxury bush getaway PAGE 2

Estates flex their security muscles PAGE 10

Lockdown: your property rights PAGE 14

An interior of Ellipse in Waterfall City by Tricolt Property Developments

The most exclusive address Munyaka sees record sales PAGE 15

HomeFront looks at today’s sought-after investment propositions, from penthouse properties to hotel apartments and 12J hospitality fund developments PAGE 6

HOMEFRONT LIFESTYLE

Where the wild things are D Now is the time to plan a trip away from home, especially with the exclusive Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa offering locals a luxury bush experience at unprecedented value WORDS: DEBBIE LOOTS :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

eep in the remote Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg, the awardwinning, five-star Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa perches against the foot of a koppie.

Understatedly elegant, its structure seems part of the landscape: the bush, the waterhole in front, the plains and the mountains in the distance. A vista dominated by the expanse of the Lowveld sky.

Owned by Dutch couple Frank and Myriam Vogel, Mhondoro is not only a luxury bush getaway but a conservation haven and a sanctuary for white rhino in particular. Here these giants roam safe and free with the rest of the Big Five. The lodge and its activities are structured to ensure numerous viewing opportunities of these and other wildlife in the malariafree 35,000ha reserve.

Game viewing

Apart from herds of elephant visiting the lodge’s waterhole (they also drink water from the swimming pool, to the delight of guests), many families of buck, zebra and even a hyena or two meander in for a drink.

Also look out for the shy warthogs roaming around the lodge with their broods tailing behind.

For closer encounters with game at the waterhole and unique photo opportunities, there is a reinforced

concrete tunnel, 65m long, leading from the lodge to the waterhole. Mhondoro is the first to offer wildlife enthusiasts such a special opportunity. Don’t forget to take along a sundowner. You are in for a treat!

More adventurous guests have two options: an earlybird or early-evening game drive or a walk in the bush with an armed ranger.

The game drive, the lighter option, is a guided trip of at least two hours with a halftime sweetener in the form of fresh pancakes prepared and served in the bush by the Mhondoro culinary team.

Top that with sightings of a lion, a female rhino and her calf, giraffe and hippos, plus a close shave with an elephant cow on the way back, and you get the picture.

The heavyweight option is not a walk in the park, it’s a walk in the wild and not for the faint-hearted. But it comes highly recommended by at least two takers who returned starry-eyed after they braved the bush with their ranger leading the way.

Décor

A stay at Mhondoro may be filled with exciting thrills, but when it comes to unwinding, visitors are spoilt for choice. The lodge only accommodates 20 guests at a time, so it never feels crowded. The décor – the handiwork of Myriam, who is an interior designer – is chic and cosy. She describes the look as modern

Q&A

HOMEFRONT

Tintswalo Ndobe cut her culinary teeth at resort hotspots like South Beach in Miami before she became head chef at Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa Tell us about your career.

I trained at the Capsicum Culinary Studio before becoming a pastry chef in 2014. I worked at a luxury lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and was then appointed pastry chef at Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa. Next I gained international experience as chef de partie at the Delano South Beach Miami Hotel before returning to Mhondoro as sous chef and became head chef four months later.

What has been your defining moment so far?

When I was nominated as employee of the month at the Delano as an intern among permanent employees.

Who inspires you?

Independent women who work hard for themselves, proving they can achieve whatever they put their minds to.

Future plans?

My own small patisserie! and sophisticated, yet comfortable and welcoming.

“It is a fusion of African chic with edgy European influences,” she says.

Outside, wooden decks furnished with cushioned loungers extend around the main area, all the suites and the luxurious villa.

This is not only the perfect vantage point from which to keep a lookout for any action around the waterhole but also offers impressive views across the reserve.

If that’s not relaxing enough, guests can book a treatment in the massage suite with its private outdoor spa deck and bath, or jump on a spinning bike in the gym while enjoying the beautiful surrounds. There is also an infrared sauna and heated swimming pools. For the tech junkies or anyone having to catch up on work, fast Wi-Fi is available in all the suites.

Parents will be pleased to know that children of all ages are welcome and there is no shortage of activities and entertainment. The lodge offers baby-sitting services as well as a stocked children’s room, where they can play while the grownups enjoy private time or join a game drive.

A

PRODUCED BY BLACKSTAR PROPERTY PUBLISHING

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: Debbie Loots Designer: Samantha Durand

Food

The food at Mhondoro is top class, with talented head chef Tintswalo Ndobe and her team preparing breakfast, lunch and dinner fit for royalty. She visits your table and explains each plate in detail, from the source of the ingredients to the method of preparation. And don’t expect the same dishes every day – Ndobe and her team surprise guests with something new each time. What’s more, the food served at the lodge and the snacks packed for guests to take on game drives are all home-made, mostly from local produce grown in the lodge’s greenhouse.

On a clear night, guests are served a special fivestar dinner prepared on the lodge’s custom-built “star deck” before a delightful show of song and dance by the Mhondoro staff.

But that’s not quite the end of the night’s entertainment.

After dinner, you can walk out onto the pool deck for the main performance, usually announced by the approaching sound of trumpeting. The stars: a thirsty herd of elephants.

Special offer

Mhondoro Safari Lodge

“The look is a fusion of African chic with edgy European influences” Myriam Vogel, co-owner, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa

& Villa has announced a 40% discount on new, direct bookings, valid with immediate effect.

Discounted rates include all meals, house drinks and twice daily safari activities, and start from R3,250 per person sharing per night.

This special offer will expire at the lodge’s discretion.

Rest assured that all sanitation procedures have been implemented, precautions are taken to minimise contamination and staff are trained accordingly. Public areas and guest rooms as well as the kitchen and spa are disinfected on a regular basis and sanitation products are available to all guests and staff.

Mhondoro.com

PUBLICATION ADVERTISING SALES

Copy Editor: Christine de Villiers Production: Joanne le Roux

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_A_ YOGA STUDIO

HOMEFRONT

Ellipse in Waterfall City, a Tricolt Property Developments offering

W The most exclusive address HOT TOPIC

HomeFront looks at today’s sought-after investment propositions, from penthouse properties to hotel apartments and 12J hospitality fund developments WORDS: DEBBIE HATHWAY :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

ealthy business executives commuting between Johannesburg and Cape Town have their pick of accommodation options.

Those who choose a penthouse for a short-term stay in a top hotel may be indulging their desire for a spacious yet exclusive living environment, making a statement about status, or both. It’s about lifestyle, luxury and convenience too.

From an investment perspective, the penthouse offering in apartment-hotel (aparthotel) developments affords investors classy accommodation with a lower margin of risk, increased security and low maintenance. The lockup-and-go rooftop space holds obvious appeal and commensurate value for upmarket buyers.

“Besides the view, security, exclusivity and convenience all add to the appeal of being a penthouse owner,” says Horizon Capital Residential MD David Sedgwick. “Most purchasers are frequent travellers looking for a home that is secure, futureproof and worry-free.”

GREEN URBAN SPACES Mixed-use precincts

continue to be a major focus for developers looking to create modern spaces that offer a range of benefits to those who want to live, work and play in the same area.

The Amdec Group takes inspiration from cities like Hong Kong, Sydney, London and New York. Its “lifestyle meets real estate” projects include Melrose Arch (and One on Whiteley within this mixed-use precinct), as well as the Yacht Club and Harbour Arch on Cape Town’s foreshore.

Only a handful of the 241 apartments at the recently completed One on Whiteley are still up for sale. One-, two- and three-bedroom units start from R2.5m.

“One of the challenges to developers is to create green urban spaces and less concrete jungle,” says Amdec Group MD Nicholas Stopforth. “We are constantly striving for unique solutions for green spaces within our developments. We look to trends around urban gardening initiatives and rooftop gardens and we create parks for dog walking and simply enjoying the benefits of being in nature.

“There are also many health benefits associated with living in mixed-use

developments. You can walk to everything you need ‒ to work, restaurants and even the gym.”

TAX BENEFIT Named after Section 12J of the Income Tax Act, the hospitality fund concept was introduced

by Government in 2009.

In 2012, Treasury made an amendment to incentivise South African taxpayers to invest in SMEs or microenterprises in the local economy. An investor who participates is afforded an immediate tax relief of up to 45% in the year in which the investment is made.

“Section 12J has been the fastest growing alternative asset class in SA over the past few years,” says Jeff Miller, CEO and cofounder of Grovest Corporate Advisory, the largest administrator of 12J funds in the market and a pioneer, having launched the first fund in 2014.

“It is being recognised as a favourable financial option for smaller businesses that are not able to secure attractive bank financing,” Miller says.

“The number of funds in the market cater for varying investor risk profiles and appetites. However, more and more we are seeing

HOMEFRONT “Besides the view, security, exclusivity and convenience all add to the appeal of being a penthouse owner” David Sedgwick, MD, Horizon Capital Residential

The Cedar, a Cape Town development by Horizon Capital Residential

Grovest Corporate Advisory’s Mdluli Safari Lodge Limited in the Kruger National Park

One On Whiteley, an Amdec Group development in Melrose Arch

A render of a penthouse in Munyaka by Balwin Properties the 180-plus funds in the market seeking new innovative ways to attract investors,” Miller says.

“We’re all navigating uncharted territory. As much as we try to maintain business as normal, we know no industry will escape a direct or knockon effect of Covid-19. Now, more than ever, we should be taking a long-term view – and looking locally.

Section 12J requires that investors take a five-year outlook – any investment exited under five years is liable for a recoupment of the tax benefit.”

Among the key industries to consider when investigating the right Section 12J investment, Miller says, hospitality has been a strong performer thanks to its significant job creation (a key criteria for Treasury), having a strong asset underpin and strong cash flows. “By far one of the hardest hit industries now is tourism and hospitality, but we believe they will be the most resilient in fighting back when people become eager to travel again and reinstate the many cancelled and postponed trips.”

According to Flyt Property Investment, the 12J sector has attracted

investment worth more than R6bn to date. The company’s 12J fund offers investors excellent returns in the high-growth hospitality industry.

This fund, in partnership with a leading 12J specialist, invests in strategically located hospitality properties with a focus on sectional-title serviced apartments and student accommodation.

Aparthotels in Flyt Property Investment’s portfolio are located in Cape Town and Stellenbosch. Benefits include medium to long stay, kitchen amenities, flexible check-in/checkout hours, generous living space and dining facilities.

Flyt Property Investment sees the 12J incentive as an opportunity to participate in the Government’s policy of job creation while providing investors with attractive returns and a viable exit strategy. Moreover, for every R1m invested, 4.1 jobs are created.

HOTEL RESIDENCES Originally a New York phenomenon, the hotel residence trend has started to catch on in other major cities and holiday hotspots around the world, according to the New World Wealth 2019 Global

Wealth Migration Review published in conjunction with AfrAsia Bank.

“Hotel residences refer to apartments or villas that can be purchased in existing hotels.

They essentially allow owners to live in a hotel permanently and enjoy the same services as regular guests, like room service, dining, cleaning and so on,” says Andrew Amoils, wealth analyst for New World Wealth.

The increasing popularity of this offering can be attributed to facilities being maintained regardless of whether owners are present or travelling; access to abovementioned services as well as facilities such as a pool, spa, entertainment, restaurants and bars; good security; and the benefit of a large reception area for meetings.

“It comes as no surprise that hotel residences sell at a premium compared with normal apartments,” says Amoils.

South African examples of hotel residences include Cape Royale and Taj Residences in Cape Town as well as The Michelangelo, Raphael Suites and The Houghton in Johannesburg.

HOMEFRONT

David Sedgwick MD, Horizon Capital Residential

Jason Heywood Property executive, Balwin Properties

Jeff Miller CEO, Grovest Corporate Advisory

Tim Kloeck MD, Tricolt Property Developments

INDUSTRY NOTES HORIZON CAPITAL RESIDENTIAL Horizon Capital Residential’s two penthouse apartments in The Aster, in Oranjezicht, Cape Town were the fastest to sell and both went to foreign buyers.

They offer panoramic views of Table Mountain and the City Bowl, and have an exclusive roof deck with private pool and entertainment space.

Penthouse purchasers look for exclusivity, privacy, security and inspiring views, and tend to be less price sensitive if the development offers something special. These buyers were able to purchase a unique new property for under €1m, which compares affordably with similar offerings across Europe.

Following the success of The Aster, the company recently launched The Cedar on the adjacent property. This development includes three penthouse

Munyaka in Waterfall by Balwin Properties

apartments offering expansive living and private roof decks, pools and a Jacuzzi. They are all equipped with airconditioning, integrated appliances and engineered wooden flooring.

– David Sedgwick, MD, Horizon Capital Residential

BALWIN PROPERTIES Penthouses in the Balwin Properties portfolio have sold fastest at Munyaka in Waterfall, Johannesburg.

This top-quality lifestyle estate comprises magnificent apartments metres away from a Crystal Lagoon.

Fibre-ready and complete with modern, luxury kitchens and ecofriendly appliances, the penthouses here attract investors thanks to the design and facilities within the development, the location and the lagoon.

Secure basement parking and storerooms form part of the offering.

The two ultra-luxurious penthouses that were priced at R30m each have both

been sold. Of the other four penthouses originally available, only two remain, at R9m and R10m each.”

- Jason Heywood, property executive, Balwin Properties

GROVEST CORPORATE ADVISORY Mdluli Safari Lodge Limited is the first and only Section 12J inside the Kruger National Park. The lodge opened in January this year.

The development of the lodge was funded through a breakthrough 12J structure: each investor receives a 12J tax deduction, dividends year one through 10, capital repayment in tranches years six through 10, plus an annual package of free bed nights each year for 10 years. The project is a partnership with the Mdluli community, which enjoys direct financial and indirect socioeconomic benefit from each guest’s stay. There are limited investment options remaining, from R500,000, and the capital has been fully underwritten.

The other fund to consider is Pepperclub Invest. The underlying asset is the Pepperclub Hotel, which occupies prime real estate in the heart of Cape Town’s business district.

Investors in this fund get a management-backed performance guarantee each year for the first five years of shareholding, with an average yield of 7.6% over five years. The fund offers shares with zero cash outlay for anyone with a taxable income of R1m.

Investors are also offered a guaranteed buy-back after five years and receive six complimentary room nights at the hotel for each year of their shareholding.

Investments start from R1m, with full financing available.

- Jeff Miller, CEO and cofounder, Grovest Corporate Advisory

TRICOLT PROPERTY DEVELOPMENTS Penthouses offer exclusivity, being located at the top of a tower or block, as well

as an attractive solution to those “downscaling” from a freestanding house to a spacious apartment.

Rooftop gardens, pools and Jacuzzis can all be factored into a bespoke penthouse design. It’s about maintenancefree, secure, fibre-ready accommodation. Security is big. Once you close the lift door of your penthouse, you don’t have to worry.

You can’t buy that.

At Ellipse in Waterfall City, one buyer bought and combined three penthouses to create a super-penthouse of 850m2.

It’s at the top of this iconic, beautifully designed building and bound to show capital appreciation in years to come.

A penthouse at The Houghton, overlooking what we like to call “Joburg’s Central Park”, with views of Sandton, Rosebank and Northcliff, can sell for up to R70m.

- Tim Kloeck, MD, Tricolt Property Developments

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CO N SC I O US L I V I N G

HOMEFRONT TREND UPDATE

May I see your ID, please?

H Security remains top priority for SA’s gated communities and urban complexes.

Brush up on the latest in technology and how developers are responding to current threats to health security

WORDS: KIM MAXWELL :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Security staff at Steyn City in Midrand

ome and personal security awareness has always been an area where SA is streaks ahead. Compared with other nations, South Africans are generally cognisant of the need to incorporate quality security measures into daily life, and more clued up about home security options on offer.

We have learnt that a good lifestyle is achievable if we take a few precautions.

Recent statistics for 2019 from the South African Police Service recorded 2-million cases of crime in the country, including 22,431 cases of robbery at residential premises. One encouraging sign was that property-related crimes dropped by 2.5% from 2018.

Developers report that quality home security is the most common requirement for every buyer demographic, whether they are first-time apartment buyers in urban complexes, families looking for a suburban lifestyle estate or retirees scaling down. In newer apartments or estate home developments, some form of access control, 24hour security and perimeter monitoring are a given.

SECURE VS SUBURBS

Mzuri near Somerset West is marketed by Pam Golding

Arabella Country Estate near Kleinmond in the Western Cape

“The common denominator may be similar: the fight against crime. But the scenarios in secured communities and in open suburbs are markedly different,” says Acquired MD Pieter van der Linde.

“Suburbs are limited as to the type of access control being utilised, power restrictions and community adherence to the prescribed rules – factors that do not hinder secure estates.

These principles ensure that estate living offers a higher level of security than that experienced in residential suburbs, gated or not.”

Acquired oversees the security at many of Balwin Properties’ developments.

Van der Linde says Balwin’s security solutions are based on proven systems installed in various suburbs but, although suburbs and estates

share common guiding principles towards security, estates offer “added layers”.

At Balwin these include dedicated automatic registration plate recognition cameras for vehicles linked to the access control system so that front and rear car views and time logs are kept.

Apps relay information on suspicious vehicles to on-site security to ensure effective and efficient responses.

Visitors receive a unique code that is time- and dateenabled to allow a single entry and exit. Residents are also notified of the arrival and departure of a visitor. In addition, there is scanning of driver’s and vehicle licences “close the circle on entry” to the estate.

LOCATION, LOCATION According to Van der Linde, Balwin’s residential developments The Polofields Waterfall and Kikuyu Waterfall, both in Waterfall City, are particularly well placed to benefit from enhanced security.

“Waterfall City has an integrated security plan for the estates being developed as well as those already completed. The difference here in this smart city is that security does not cease or begin with the entrance to any estate development or to Waterfall City itself. Their systems are intertwined to ensure a secure environment for residents, workers and visitors.”

Relevant security information can be shared between various private estate gatehouses and security personnel located within Waterfall City to enable faster responses.

“The starting point for Steyn City’s security system is the understanding that security is first and foremost in buyers’ minds,” says Steyn City marketing and events group head Zoe van Onselen. “Although they are attracted to the outstanding facilities, their primary concern is the freedom and peace of mind that comes with a secure lifestyle.”

Steyn City’s 810ha of parkland gives residents sufficient room to maintain

their own personal space while still living in a community. Plentiful outdoor facilities for exercise and recreation are key.

Communal facilities are well lit at night too, so residents can use them after work.

SAFETY FIRST “As crime contributes to the stress experienced by many South Africans, security becomes more and more important. That said, no one wants to feel as though they’re living inside a prison,” Van Onselen says.

“Residents should know their families are safe – a special concern for businesspeople who travel frequently – but visible security measures detract from that peace of mind developers are trying to promote.”

For this reason, most of Steyn City’s measures are hidden from view. In addition to a security nerve centre manned by a 24-hour patrol, 500 cameras are placed around the perimeter wall. These, along with thermal infrared technology, detect intruders coming within a certain distance of the perimeter. An audio feed also warns trespassers automatically that the area is under video surveillance and that they are being filmed.

Aside from technology designed for facial recognition and vehicle registration, Steyn City has a task force of 140 trained, discreetly armed personnel and a dog patrol unit. Van Onselen says the estate also has roaming “bobbies on the beat” to assist residents with requests, from carrying heavy loads to locating lost pets. They are often the first link for residents needing security assistance too.

HIDDEN BENEFITS The estate layout of 237 private homes at Arabella Country Estate outside Kleinmond in the Western Cape is designed with a similar objective.

“In an age when home security has become the norm, the chance to live in an environment that doesn’t look like Fort Knox but offers complete security is

HOMEFRONT

The entrance of Multi Spectrum Property’s Bonsai Estate in Durbanville

“The starting point for Steyn City’s security system is the understanding that security is first and foremost in buyers’ minds” Zoe van Onselen, marketing and events group head, Steyn City

becoming more of a need than a luxury for most people,” says estate manager Dirk Uys. Arabella’s security system includes biometric fingerprint readers for homeowners and staff, the scanning of driver’s licences and vehicle licences, and various perimeter security measures. Homeowners have access to trails, footpaths, the lagoon and common areas on the estate, and for an annual green fee they can also use all the hotel and golf facilities.

“In SA, security remains the single most important aspect when choosing to buy in a lifestyle estate. For this reason, estate homes tend to enjoy higher capital appreciation than general suburban homes,” says Sitari Country Estate property sales executive director Claudius Combrinck.

LATEST TECH

The Polofields Waterfall in Waterfall City, by Balwin Properties

Every estate developer sees the value of investing heavily in security measures. “Mzuri, a new development in Somerset West, will install the latestgeneration technology to ensure residents feel secure.

This will include access control, monitoring and manned security at estate entrances. There will also be electric fencing and thermal cameras,” says Pam Golding Properties Helderberg area manager Louise Varga.

“All access will be controlled by biometrics and security will be managed on and off site. Each home will have an intercom system linked to the control room to ensure rapid response.”

Multi Spectrum Property’s recently launched Bonsai Estate occupies a prime pocket of land in Langeberg Ridge in Durbanville.

“Being situated in a builtup suburb, it offers less risk for homeowners because communities tend to be watchful of their neighbourhoods,” says project liaison manager Werner Scheffer.

“However, SA’s crime rate remains a significant aspect when buying any new home. To that end, Bonsai Estate will provide residents with typical estate security measures that include a secure electrified perimeter and manned 24-hour access control.”

THE POPI EFFECT Secure complexes and estates do however have a responsibility to be professional in how they use personal information supplied by visitors.

Commenting on what may happen when the Protection of Personal Information (PoPI) Act comes into effect, Pam Golding Properties head of training Lanice Steward says that, as buyers pay a premium to live in a secure estate, there is an obligation to enforce high standards

of security protocols. “In the case of an estate, the trustees, elected by the body corporate, will be part of the decision-making process to decide those protocols. This will protect property values: if an estate gets a reputation for poor security, it would have an impact on values.”

Arabella is the first member of the Association of Residential Communities in SA to receive its PoPI compliance certification, which deals with how personal information is processed and stored.

“The purpose of the PoPI Act is to ensure that all South African institutions conduct themselves in a responsible manner when collecting, processing, storing and sharing another entity’s personal information by holding them accountable should they abuse or compromise anybody’s personal information in any way,” says Uys. “We are very pleased to have our compliance certification. This is just another step we are taking to show our stakeholders how much we value their privacy and our own.”

HEALTH SECURITY How are estates adjusting to accommodate current health security issues in the face of Covid-19? Uys says Arabella’s working group opted to take action before problems got out of hand by implementing protocols

including distribution of awareness posters at strategic estate points, communicating hygiene protocols to homeowners and staff, the installation of hand sanitisers at strategic points such as turnstile access and offering alcohol swabs for biometric reader use in resident lanes.

The estate’s layout is particularly suited to social distancing. “The homes at Arabella Country Estate are all freestanding, allowing for separation of neighbours.

We are fortunate to have space and fresh air at Arabella. Being outside of the hustle and bustle of a busy town or city, the estate allows people to appreciate nature and still practise social distancing without feeling isolated.”

Balwin Properties PR manager Lisa Sinclair emphasises that health security measures around Covid-19 are crucial. “The managing agents at all our sites, with Balwin’s assistance, are implementing the recommended restrictions to ensure that all government protocols and procedures are in place and adhered to,” she says.

Flexibility is key with any security systems. “The Balwin blueprint for security is ever-evolving, and at all times back-up processes are in place to mitigate any potential risk factors,” says Van der Linde.

FOCUS ON: SITARI COUNTRY ESTATE, SOMERSET WEST ADVERTORIAL

Own luxury Sitari Country Estate’s prestige speaks for itself, with impressive buyer interest and 1,000 properties to the value of R1.4bn sold within 66 months WORDS AND PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

L

aunched in August 2014, Sitari Country Estate in the Helderberg basin outside Somerset West is one of the Cape’s most exclusive lifestyle estates.

This internationally recognised R4bn mega-project offers a contemporary country lifestyle. Sitari Country Estate has become a sought-after suburb in its own right with a host of development opportunities and amenities, including residential and retirement housing, a school and nursery, a shopping centre, parks, kids’ play areas and corporate offices.

Woven among the homes are green open spaces, herb gardens, orchards and ponds. Children can run free safely and parents can enjoy walks along the scenic cycle and pedestrian route through the 192ha estate. The reinstatement of Sitari’s Klein Zeekoevlei Wetland – the second largest wetland in the Helderberg – will also bring a unique element of natural serenity to residents’ doorsteps.

The Amdec Group, SA’s leading developer of new urban lifestyle properties, recently acquired the multi-award-winning Sitari Country Estate.

This forms part of the group’s strategy to strengthen its portfolio in the region and represents an exciting opportunity to leverage more than three

decades’ experience in the development of iconic mixed-use precincts, secure lifestyle estates, inclusive housing communities and retirement villages.

TOP-NOTCH SECURITY A consistently important aspect of a lifestyle estate is that of safety, and Sitari provides a security system of the highest standards 24/7, 365 days of the year.

On-site security is monitored via the main gatehouse and includes biometric readers and staffed access control. Each junction inside the estate has four-way cameras connected to the control room. Moreover, perimeter fencing features under-dig protection, serrated strips, anti-cutting and anti-climb measures, with electrics on top as well as fibre optic technology with heatsensitive triggers.

MORE THAN AN ESTATE Children’s education is another significant element of living in a first-rate estate like Sitari. So it comes as no surprise that Curro, the fastest-growing independent school brand in SA, provides nurturing and schooling from the age of three months to Grade 12 within the estate.

As for convenient access to everyday necessities, Sitari Village Mall is located directly across from the estate. This lifestyle shopping centre includes a flagship Checkers store alongside other well-known

brands like Woolworths Food and Vida e Caffè.

Further plans include an on-site gym, a coffee shop and a clubhouse with a café and deli, a kids’ play zone and a swimming pool.

IMPRESSIVE PORTFOLIO Buyers can choose from luxury and premium apartment schemes comprising one-, twoand three-bedroom units.

All interiors feature top finishes and imported brands, including Smeg, Miele, Grohe and Kohler, and some of the groundfloor units have private gardens. Apartment prices range from R1.205m to R2.45m, including transfer duty.

Village and Country Homes are also available in a superior selection of three- or four-bedroom freestanding homes with double garages, ranging from R2.995m to R4.195m.

Transfer duty is included.

Catering for investors, first-time buyers and families as well as those planning to retire in the near future, Sitari Country Estate has a space to suit every lifestyle.

Own luxury. Live family.

Be inspired.

GET IN TOUCH SITARI COUNTRY ESTATE Tel: 021 201 7337 E-mail: sales@sitari.co.za sitari.co.za

Steyn City’s exclusive new

R E S O R T- S T Y L E A PA RT M E N T S

Steyn City has launched a sensational range of exclusive luxury apartments with features such as double glazed windows, air-conditioning, Siemens appliances, and much more. Residents can enjoy access to world-class facilities that include resort pools, an 18 hole Nicklaus Design golf course, an awardwinning clubhouse, an equestrian centre, fine dining restaurants and casual eateries, convenience retail, children’s play nodes, outdoor gyms, tennis courts, a pedestrian boulevard with kilometres of running and cycling tracks, private schooling, and 100 more reasons to make this destination your world.

R2.7m Fully furnished 3 bedroom show apartment

Call: 010 597 1040 sales@steyncity.co.za Mark: 082 559 2989 Leanne: 072 078 9562 steyncity.co.za

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HOMEFRONT LOCKDOWN REPORT

Your property rights and Covid-19 Marlon Shevelew, director of law firm Marlon Shevelew and Associates, shares his insight on the legal rights of landlords and tenants

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Moving home: now what?

Trafalgar Properties MD Andrew Schaefer says all parties must know their options

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ccording to the regulations of the national state of disaster, tenants who were due to move at the end of March must remain in place until after the lockdown, which currently ends on April 16.

In addition, tenants should insist that their new home is properly cleaned and sanitised before they move in.

New tenants will not be required to pay rent to the new landlord until they can take occupation, because these circumstances are beyond their control.

Moreover, the landlord or agent will not be able to let the property to someone else during lockdown, even if it is empty.

If they haven’t done so already, the best advice for landlords or agents with tenants currently in place who were supposed to move out by 1 April, is to offer them a one-month extension on their lease to remain in place during lockdown. The tenants will be liable for the rent for that month.

Landlords must know their rights if tenants lose their income because of the lockdown or the economic effects of the pandemic.

We suggest that, should they qualify, tenants who have always paid their rent in full and on time before be asked to sign a waiver for their deposit to be used as rent for a certain time instead of it having to be held in trust.

It would be best if this agreement were drawn up by a professional rental agent. It should contain a provision that the deposit is to be reinstated, perhaps in instalments, by a certain date, and that the landlord will be able take legal action if the tenant reneges on such an arrangement.

Alternatively, a landlord may decide to give good tenants a “payment holiday” during the lockdown or even for the following couple of months, especially if the landlord has been given a similar indulgence by their bank on their home loan instalments.

However, landlords should be cautious and ensure that a written agreement is in place that enables them to withdraw the indulgence under certain circumstances.

The unpaid rent is to be reinstated before the end of the lease and the landlord should be able to take legal action in the event that

the tenant reneges on this special arrangement.

When it comes to tenants who had been given notice to move out because they were already defaulting on their rent, landlords may now be obliged to let them stay on at least until the end of the lockdown.

However, if they again don’t pay rent it is important that the landlord or agent keep reporting this to the credit bureaux and continue to follow the correct legal procedures so that the eviction process can begin promptly after the state of disaster is lifted.

“New tenants will not be required to pay rent until they can take occupation, because these circumstances are beyond their control”

any people will not be able to earn an income during the lockdown. The first question is whether the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting measures qualify before the law as a force majeure or a vis major event.

Vis major (an “act of God”) is a legal term referring to an uncontrollable superior power or event. A related legal term is casus fortuitus. To qualify as either vis major or casus fortuitus, an event must be uncontrollable and unforeseen, resulting in complete or partial release from obligations.

Covid-19 and the lockdown do indeed qualify as vis major events.

Landlords

1. A landlord will likely not be entitled to compel tenants to pay full rental if the lockdown has forced those tenants to close shop.

2. A landlord cannot refuse to pay levies – there is no way Covid-19 impacts on ownership that will release landlords from their obligations.

3. A landlord cannot pay reduced levies or mortgage payments because his tenants cannot pay or because he doesn’t earn an income.

4. Some banks are offering relief programmes for property owners.

Struggling landlords should consider such offers, but they are not necessarily a given.

Tenants

1. Only if there is a direct effect on the beneficial occupation, the tenant is entitled to a remission of rental. Indirect effects do not qualify.

2. A tenant who cannot pay rent because of income loss owing to Covid-19 is still liable to pay, as the effect is not direct enough. If, for example, a self-employed person cannot earn an income, the effect is indirect and therefore that tenant has to fulfil their lease obligations.

3. Only if the tenant’s beneficial use of the property is directly affected by force majeure are they entitled to remission. For example, a commercial tenant who cannot use a property for the purpose for which it was let will be entitled to remission of rental for the duration of the lockdown.

The nationwide lockdown is enacted in terms of the Disaster Management Act. The regulations published under this act also impact the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants.

Commercial tenants who are now forced to

curtail their trading hours experience a direct impact on the beneficial use and enjoyment of the property.

Such a tenant is entitled to pay a reduced rental.

If, however, the tenant merely is struggling because business is bad in general but has not been impacted directly, the landlord will be justified in refusing to accept a reduced rental. This was the situation before the lockdown, and will be the situation once the lockdown comes to an end.

The lockdown also means that many obligations cannot be fulfilled, as illustrated by the following examples: 1. A tenant would not be able to vacate property during the lockdown.

2. A landlord would not be able to give occupation to new tenants during this time.

3. Similarly, an estate agent would not be able to attend to incoming and outgoing inspections.

HOMEFRONT PROPERTY NEWS

Oranjezicht development offers a choice mix

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ectional title property remains a popular investment option in SA, and Horizon Capital recently launched The Cedar, offering a range of apartments to choose from.

Set on an old Oranjezicht farm alongside The Aster, another of Horizon’s successful developments, The Cedar comprises 18 exclusive units built across five storeys. Apartment prices start from R2.495m (including VAT) and no transfer duties apply.

The development’s first three floors consist of

one- and two-bedroom residences, while the top two floors are taken up by three luxury penthouses with panoramic views of Table Mountain and the City Bowl. Each penthouse has a private roof deck with a pool or a Jacuzzi, whereas the other apartments all open up onto terraces, also with mountain views.

Moreover, residents can relax and entertain on a spacious communal deck with a pergola, a Jacuzzi and a gas braai.

With sustainability being top priority, the

development has many ecofriendly and offgrid features such as its own generator, solar water heating, waterefficient fittings and low-energy LED lighting.

All apartments come with separate storage pods.

Basement parking, CCTV, access control and electric fencing ensure convenient, secure living.

The development is shortterm letting friendly with a fully managed service available, offering investors an opportunity to achieve attractive rental yields.

Property industry calls for further interest rate cuts

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he world economy is reeling in the wake of an unprecedented medical crisis, with major countries in lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19.

These are challenging times for most industries, including the property sector.

According to Pam Golding Property Group

CEO Andrew Golding, SA’s downgrade to junk status by Moody’s rating agency is a further blow to a weakened economy that has already slipped into recession and is only starting to grapple with the ramifications of the lockdown.

“Some have pointed out that the market has

already largely priced in the downgrade and have called for a dramatic further reduction in the interest rate in order to bolster the economy, particularly in light of the pandemic,” he says.

“Since the local property market is driven by sentiment, there are bound to be negative effects that

will likely remain over the medium to longer term unless whatever stimulus there is available to the economy is provided as a matter of urgency.

“There are still sellers and buyers who are willing and able to transact, and technology means that buyers, many of whom now

have more time than before, can browse neighbourhoods and properties and even view virtual tours of homes while liaising with reputable, experienced real estate agents.”

With first-time and other buyers looking for affordable properties, the demand remains high for

homes in the sub-R1m price band where no transfer duties apply. Golding sees this as a meaningful contributor to activity in the housing market. With the Deeds Office currently closed, transactions under way can still be partially processed online to be concluded after lockdown.

Balwin’s Munyaka sees record sales

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ince launching a few weeks ago, JSE-listed Balwin Properties’ new development Munyaka in Waterfall, Midrand, has sold 555 apartments totalling R850m in four days.

These include two ultra-luxurious beachfront penthouses that went for R30m each to set a new benchmark, and two of four super-luxurious beachfront units that were sold at R10m each.

“We’ve been inundated by interested buyers,” says Balwin Properties founder and CEO Steve Brookes.

“We achieved sales across all units at Munyaka, with

our entry-level offering providing access to an unsurpassed lifestyle.”

Over the coming eight years, 5,020 architecturally designed apartments will be developed at Munyaka, where construction of the largest Crystal Lagoon in the southern hemisphere has already started.

Balwin Properties’ core high-quality one-, twoand three-bedroom units start from R799,000 and feature Scandinavian-style kitchens, free ecofriendly appliances, balconies and convenient prepaid water and electricity meters.

All residents will enjoy

access to Munyaka’s Crystal Lagoon. Other amenities include a six-star Green Star-rated lifestyle centre (with free access to a gym), as well as squash courts, an on-site concierge, restaurants, meeting rooms, a heated pool, laundromats, a cinema, a wellness spa and a children’s play area.

Free Wi-Fi and cellphonecharging facilities will be available at the lifestyle centre and around the lagoon’s beachfront area.

Construction of the boundary wall, gatehouse, lifestyle centre and show apartment block is currently under way.

New lifestyle estate launches in Durbanville

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ulti Spectrum Property (MSP) Developments, responsible for the awardwinning Buh-Rein Estate, has just launched Bonsai Estate, a prestigious residential lifestyle estate in Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs. Phase 1 includes the first of 64 apartments and 32 freestanding homes.

Set on prime land in Durbanville’s Langeberg Ridge, the estate will feature landscaped parks and recreational areas. To promote environmental consciousness and maintain the natural character of the site, at least 28 existing trees will be retained.

“Our research shows that Bonsai Estate’s designs, finishes, landscaping, amenities, security and unique location set it apart from anything else currently on offer in the area,” says MSP Developments CEO Riaan Roos.

Starting from R1,399,900, with no transfer duties payable, the first of the apartments are twobedroom, one-bathroom units in six configurations, each with a balcony, an outdoor braai area and two parking bays.

Inside, luxury fittings and finishes include Bosch appliances and Hansgrohe and Smeg sanitaryware.

The freestanding homes, each with three bedrooms and two or two-anda-half bathrooms, are priced from R2,299,900, with no transfer duties payable. Available in nine configurations, these contemporary residences have double garages and built-in braais in enclosed gardens. Besides state-ofthe-art Bosch appliances and Hansgrohe and Smeg sanitaryware, the interiors also feature LED downlights.

“Bonsai Estate will include numerous pocket parks, with a play area designed in conjunction with a children’s play equipment manufacturer,” adds Roos.

Clients can go online to buy• Visit www.balwin.co.za

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