Neighbourhood CT - 08 September 2019

Neighbourhood 8 SEPTEMBER 2019

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

To let or not to let?

The property rental market at the moment is slow at best, with legal pitfalls aplenty. Those in the know weigh in on how landlords and lessees should navigate these rough waters, page 6

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

8 SEPTEMBER 2019

Editor’s exclusive CARLA REDELINGHUYS

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Stellenbosch

Kanonkop | 021 884 4656 | kanonkop.co.za

Hip hip hooray!

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s a big wine enthusiast, I was really surprised to find out that uber-popular wine Roodeberg was not readily available locally until 2004. For the first 55 years, Roodeberg was exclusively made for export, and it’s been said that bartering test match tickets, biltong and other sought-after goodies “under the table” in return for a bottle or two was common practice.

Launched in 1949, Roodeberg is the brainchild of Dr Charles Niehaus, who crafted the first vintage from the 1946 harvest. Inspired by a glorious sunset over the Paarl mountains, the name Roodeberg harks back to the vineyards of Rothenberg near Geisenheim in Germany where Niehaus studied winemaking.

This year, in celebration of its 70th anniversary, the wine farm is launching a limited edition commemorative blend called 1949. The maiden 2017 vintage was crafted from grapes grown on Grondves Farm in Stellenbosch, which is one of the primary sites for the development of mother plant material for the South African wine industry.

“Roodeberg 1949 is a collaborative effort harnessing some of the finest plant material along with our combined viticultural and winemaking expertise,” says winemaker Louwritz Louw, who worked closely with viticulturist Marco Ventrella and former KWV cellar master and wine educator

Prof. Charl Theron in seeing this commemorative blend come to life.

The wine embraces the revival of exciting French and Spanish varieties – cabernet sauvignon (38%) forms the foundation of the blend, complemented by tempranillo (29%), carignan (20%) and carménère (13%).

“Each variety brings something unique to the blend resulting in a wine of exceptional concentration and finesse. Cabernet sauvignon and tempranillo lend structure and intensity, while the carignan and carménère contribute spicy intrigue and depth of flavour,” adds Louw.

Tim Atkin, a British Master of Wine and accomplished wine commentator with over 30 years’ experience under his belt, awarded the Roodeberg 1949 93 points out of 100 in his 2019 South Africa Special Report, saying that the 2017 vintage was one of the greatest from South Africa he has ever tasted. Atkins tasted 2,115 local wines for this year’s report, now in its seventh year and his largest yet.

Roodeberg 1949 will be released annually in limited quantities and the blend may vary from year to year.

Keep on firing Kanonkop reminds us why it’s a South African classic WORDS: RICHARD HOLMES

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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tellenbosch wine estate Kanonkop has long been a favourite for local red wine lovers. But did you know the first vines were only planted in 1929 and the first estate wines only appeared in 1973?

“When Paul Sauer inherited the farm from his mother it was just a bare patch of earth,” explains cellar master Abrie Beeslaar. “He was the person who really kick started what we have today on the property. Although he was a politician, his big love was wine and agriculture.”

Beeslaar joined Kanonkop in 2002, the fourth winemaker in the farm’s history, and is passionate about the unique terroir of the farm situated on the western slopes of the Simonsberg.

“At Kanonkop it’s all about the site, the soil, and the people.”

But Abrie is passionate about offering an affordable taste of Kanonkop too, and the second-label Kadette range consistently over-delivers on quality in both the 100% pinotage and the Cape blend of pinotage, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc.

While fruit for the Kadette is often from younger vines, and bought in from other farms, it’s treated with the same care in the cellar.

“Kadette has always been a focus for us,” says Abrie. “It’s often the first impression many people will have of Kanonkop, so you can’t cut corners.”

When it comes to people, it’s Paul Sauer that’s celebrated in the farm’s flagship red blend. First released in 1981, the Kanonkop Paul Sauer is a classic bordeaux-style blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc.

Matured in new oak barrels for 24 months, it’s a wine that will reward being cellared for up to 25 years.

Along with its focus on red wines, it’s pinotage that’s the grape most closely associated with Kanonkop. The property was one of the first to plant the cultivar, back in 1943, and today Abrie draws on vineyards more than 60 years old. Little wonder the Kanonkop Pinotage 2015 bagged a spot in the recent Absa Top 10 Pinotage Awards.

And if your wallet is flush, the Kanonkop Black Label shows just how well pinotage performs as a premium wine. Only 7,000 bottles are released each year, at a cool R1,850 a pop.

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8 SEPTEMBER 2019

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

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Stellenbosch

Delaire Graff Restaurant | 021 885 8160 | delaire.co.za

The prodigal son returns Delaire Graff Restaurant outside Stellenbosch celebrates its 10th anniversary with the new head chef, Kevin Grobler WORDS: KIT HEATHCOCK

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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stately avenue, manicured gardens with not a leaf out of place despite winter weather, bronze cheetahs by Dylan Lewis calmly surveying the dramatic mountain views: first impressions at Delaire Graff wine estate confirm its reputation for finely-tuned luxury. Vast wooden doors silently swing open, reminiscent of an Indiana Jones movie, and you’re greeted by the familiar green face of the original Chinese Lady by Vladimir Tretchikoff. It feels like stumbling upon a treasure trove, notable artworks catching the eye pretty much everywhere you go.

introduce head chef Kevin Grobler.

He’s not new to these kitchens, having worked there under Christiaan Campbell, then Michael Deg, until the travel bug bit and took him to spend three years as head chef at celebrated Michelin-star Jan in Nice. Serendipity brought him home, first to open Le Petit Manoir in Franschhoek, and now to head up the kitchens where he first earned his stripes. Sustainability and ethical produce are top of Kevin’s agenda, and he’s enjoying working from the estate vegetable garden. “Our food is very local, earthy and real. It’s about allowing the purity of flavour, local provenance and sheer beauty of the ingredients to shine,” he says.

We’re visiting Delaire Graff Restaurant for its 10th anniversary and a lunch to

His brief from estate owner Laurence Graff is to keep things simple. Through the meal we discover that this is nextlevel simple – pared down fine dining, fewer fancy flourishes but all the skill and technique, focussing on just one or two star ingredients in each dish.

Our menu was inspired by the estate’s top wines, both as pairings and used in the dish. Salmon cured in cabernet franc rosé with a deliciously smoky tomato broth, accents of lemon gel and crispy capers. Next a delicious fresh pea mousse with bocconcini mozzarella, black olive crumble, and peas cooked in the Banghoek Reserve Chardonnay. Boschendal beef short rib slow braised in the flagship Botmaskop 2017 red blend, the meat rich and succulent, with Jerusalem artichoke puree and onion crisps, on the side some perfect crispy fries and French beans, classic and memorable.

A festive dessert of roasted guavas and dark chocolate cake, port gel and some smooth caramel dulce crémeux finished us off nicely, the views of clouds scudding over mountaintops completing the feeling of being on top of the world.

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PROPERTY NEWS

8 SEPTEMBER 2019

Neighbourhood

Rules are made to be broken There are always so-called ‘rules’ around design, decor, photography, you name it. But it’s only when you know those rules and feel comfortable enough to break them with impunity that you create something unique.

WORDS: ANNE SCHAUFFER

IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

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omewhat of a design maverick, Grant Webster of Fahrenheit Design has been in the interior and decor industry as long as he cares to remember.

One of his favourite things is talking about his most important rules around interior design, many of them breakaways from conventional thinking. He offered up nine…

Rule #1

The most important rule is this: know what you’re trying to do. Creating a space that has style or chic, comes with a real effort to distil the essence of this style, and then to repeatedly reinforce this idea in every decision, every colour selection, every furniture choice, and so on. Style with a single idea in mind!

Rule #2

Don’t do anything you don’t like doing. It may sound so obvious, but it still holds true. Don’t use a style or theme you don’t personally enjoy. Not being able to embrace that concept will lead to a lack of confidence that is visible to others, and won’t fulfil you or encourage your efforts.

Creativity must play a role and a lack of conviction will crush the result.

Rule #3

Paint a small space with light colours?

No, it’s a lie. Nothing you do in a small space will fool anyone into believing it’s not a small space. Using mirrors on only one of the larger walls will help, as will the use of indirect light because it eliminates shadows. But a small space will remain a small space.

Rather celebrate the uniqueness of that small space and be bold when considering what to do with it.

Rule #4

A high ceiling makes a space feel bigger. Really? No, it doesn’t. Would you feel comfortable standing at the bottom of a lift shaft? Not likely, even though this is an extreme example. It’s all about balance. Any space taller than it is wide won’t ever

be considered calming. Rather use horizontal breaks such as dado rails, and levels of cornicing to divide the space into sections that are manageable by a mind that’s seeking balance.

Rule #5

The largest piece of furniture goes on to the largest wall. This is a simple decor rule, and it holds true if you’re not trying to create an unbalanced environment. Simple, easy, true.

Rule #6

The wall with the window is the wall that will always appear darkest in a room. This may seem the obvious place to make the feature wall, but it’s not.

Because of this, one of the side walls is the best place to embellish with wallpaper, a bar, panelling or mirror.

Rule #7

Always use the most matt paint on your ceiling. Unless you want to see every bump, blemish and defect, stay with matt – I use Dulux Trade Dura 65, as the ceiling paint specification of choice. Light or dark paint selection doesn’t matter. In fact, a darker shade of paint helps present a view in its best form, a note to remember when painting large veranda ceilings.

Rule #8

Reflective surfaces create excitement, dull surfaces create calm. Not always as obvious as it seems, but this trick allows you to create areas of interest and attention, when you use reflective items and surfaces in a space that’s largely matt or dull. This allows for the use of glass, and metallic items in a collection arrangement, to become a feature in a dull, matt, cocooning space.

Surprisingly, this works just as well in a monochrome palette, in fact, even more in a room with many different colours.

Rule #9

Never follow the rules. Greatness comes from individuality, a break from tradition and a healthy disregard for convention. Enough said…

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PROPERTY NEWS

8 SEPTEMBER 2019

Neighbourhood

Property focus

RIVERS EDGE, RONDEBOSCH

Let it out

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE, MELKBOSSTRAND

Whether you’re renting a property or renting out a property, it’s always good to know what’s happening in the rental market

WORDS: SUPPLIED

IMAGES: SUPPLIED & SHUTTERSTOCK

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egardless of which region you live in, the prognosis for the rental market is the same: flat. Local agents had some advice for landlords while they wait for the (inevitable) upswing.

“Landlords need to be aware that there’s plenty competition in the rental market and therefore their pricing needs to be realistic and market-related,” says Hayley Bird, Complete Coast Properties.

John Birkett, Rawson Rentals Cape Metro Classic Rentals, agrees. “The rental market in 2019 has seen lowerthan-usual rental incomes. Many landlords have had to be negotiable on the rent and the annual increases, as creditworthy tenants who look after the property and pay on time are increasingly hard to come by.”

“Traditionally the winter period is always quieter and demand normally picks up towards the end of the year.

Landlords are having to seriously consider reducing monthly rental amounts – lower price rentals remain active,” says Caron Leslie,

RE/MAX Property Associates.

“My advice to landlords is to provide an excellent product and even better service. Opt for steady, long-term relationships rather than quick gains,” says Russell Fisher, Russell Fisher Properties.

Herschel Jawitz, CEO, Jawitz properties says, “The rental market is relatively flat at the moment due to the large number of properties available for rent, especially in the sectional title market and because of the current economy. Lessees are currently pricesensitive and spoilt for choice. As a result, many lessors are accepting below-inflation escalations to keep a good tenant and may have to accept a lower rental to find a new tenant.”

It’s the law It’s crucial that landlords and tenants know their rights according to the law.

The Rental Housing Amendment Act 35 of 2014 is the latest amendment to the Rental Housing Act 50 of 1999.

It increases the rights of tenants and obligations of landlords and aims at firming up the rules regarding inspections, deposits, the condition of a property and what should be included in the lease.

Glenda Taylor, principal, Greeff Rentals, says, “While the Amendment Act is yet to be gazetted, both landlords and tenants are required to comply with the provisions of the Act immediately for all new lease agreements, while existing lease agreements are to be updated within six months of the Act coming into effect.”

The new legislation requires that landlords provide a written lease agreement as verbal agreements will no longer be binding. The landlord must ensure that the property is structurally sound, suitable for habitation, has adequate space, and provides basic services such as water and electricity. All these items should be addressed in the lease agreement.

It also addresses the fact that the landlord must place the tenant’s

8 SEPTEMBER 2019

Neighbourhood

PROPERTY NEWS

7

PORTMAN PLACE, MELROSE

deposit in an interest-bearing account – the interest accruing for the benefit of the tenant. The deposit interest accrued should be refunded as soon as possible (usually seven days) after termination of the lease agreement.

The deposit may be applied towards the payment of any outstanding amounts for which the tenant is liable under the lease agreement, including outstanding accounts for water and electricity and the reasonable cost of any repairs caused by the tenant to the premises.

The Act also protects landlords from tenants who cause malicious damage to a property. The onus is on the landlord to inspect the property with the tenant at the start of the lease. Any defects or damages must be noted but not necessarily rectified by the landlord and must be listed and attached to the lease agreement for later comparison.

to follow correct legal procedures even if the tenant is in breach. Tenants are entitled to privacy but landlords can inspect the property from time to time. Unannounced inspections, however, are not permissible.

FAQs Tenants are often in the dark with regard to their rights and responsibilities when renting a property. PG van der Linde, rentals manager, Seeff PTA East, answers four commonly asked questions.

On exit, if a joint inspection doesn’t take place, the property is assumed to be in good condition and the landlord may not withhold the deposit for repairs or damages.

Q: May tenants make changes to a rental property?

A: Once the lease has been approved and the tenant has moved in, they’re not allowed to make any structural additions or install fixtures without written consent from the owner. If the owner does give consent, tenants aren’t entitled to compensation for convenient changes and fixtures when the lease expires. Tenants may also not remove these alterations and fixtures from the premises.

The landlord cannot cut off utilities and services due to non-payment – this can only be done by the municipality – or lock a tenant out of the property without a court order, and is required

Tenants may, however – in some instances – be entitled to reimbursement where necessary improvements and maintenance were undertaken.

Q: How can tenants be sure to get their deposit back?

A: Hand the property back in the same condition as it was received, with the exclusion of fair wear and tear, which is something the tenant should not be penalised for. Wear and tear is scuff marks on a wall or chipped paint. A hole in the wall is considered damage and you’ll be penalised.

Q: Can tenants back out of their rental lease?

A: You’re allowed to give 20 business days’ notice to cancel a lease agreement. If the landlord or agent makes an effort to procure a new tenant by marketing the property at market-related prices after receiving notice but fail to find a new tenant, the tenant who gave notice can be held liable for a reasonable cancellation penalty.

A reasonable cancellation penalty may require that the tenant pays the rental for the remainder of the lease should a new tenant not be sourced.

Q: What if I can’t resolve issues with my landlord?

A: Tenants and landlords can turn to the Rental Housing Tribunal who will listen to both parties and establish a fair settlement or will assist in mediation.

PORTMAN PLACE, MELROSE

The rent trap This describes a situation where people are continuously renting property instead of buying their own – and it gets harder and harder to break out of that as you get older. “The first step in avoiding the rent trap is making the choice to rent a property in a lower price bracket and save up towards a deposit on a property to buy,” says Just Property CEO Paul Stevens.

He says it’s easy to fall into the rent trap by assuming that your income will increase as you get older. “But that’s not always the case.

Responsibilities increase, as does rent and already we’re seeing data showing long-standing tenants battling to keep up with escalations.”

THREE FOUNTAINS, KENILWORTH

WESTERN SEABOARD PROPERTY SPECIALISTS Expect to be Impressed

www.completecoast.com Office: Beach Road Melkbosstrand Tel: 021 553 2235

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 8 995 000.00 5 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms Pool House 575sqm Lake and Fairway Views. Modern finishes and design Breath-taking views across the water and park Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 6 500 000.00 4 Bedrooms All ensuite Splash Pool House 500sqm Fairway Views and private living spaces 2 Lounges plus Staff Quarters Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 6 950 000.00 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Pool House 380sqm Fairway view especially from top lounge.

A sprawling home, sun filled & great for large family Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 5 950 000.00 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms House 350sqm Extra large garden opening to the fairway and reserve. North facing double volume living areas Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 5 150 000.00 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Study House 210sqm This well kept North facing single level home has plenty of charm. 2 lounges both with fireplaces Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 3 800 000.00 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms House 177sqm Set in a quiet close this home is close to the club house and excellent starter home. Single level Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 4 600 000.00 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms House 120sqm Not in the ‘townhouse section’ this home has space all around.Kitchen with sep scullery.Newly renovated Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 5 350 000.00 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Pool House 310sqm Very popular location. Excellent quality & condition single level home. Low maintenance garden Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 6 450 000.00 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Pool House 370sqm Excellent value to be found in this elevated home with fairway views. Single level. 2 Lounges Hayley 082 561 7116

ATLANTIC BEACH ESTATE R 38 000.00/mnth 5 Bedrooms 4.5 Bathrooms Pool House 550sqm Exceptionally well designed and modern home with 3 garages and a lovely outdoor entertainment area Inge 083 642 2884

BLOUBERGSTRAND R 7 500 000.00 3 Bedrooms 3.5 Bathrooms Penthouse 237sqm Exquisite views across the bay. Extra large unit offering 3 garages and a study Izelle 082 728 6299

SUNNINGDALE R 1 895 000.00 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Garage House 80sqm Extra large well kept garden, popular small security complex. Good condition and open plan Dianne 082 824 8877

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PROPERTY NEWS

8 SEPTEMBER 2019

Neighbourhood

Airbnb Steyn City’s new generates an launch gains traction estimated J R10,3bn for SA N

ew research shows that Airbnb’s host and guest community generated more than $100bn (±R1,500bn) in estimated direct economic impact across 30 countries last year. The estimated direct economic impact of Airbnb in SA was more than $685m (±R10,3bn), based on host income and guest spending during trips.

In an Airbnb survey of more than 228,000 responses, 51% of Airbnb hosts said that hosting on the platform helped them afford their homes.

ust three months after its launch, 104 on Creek – the new luxury resort-style apartment development at Steyn City – has attracted much attention from buyers in the market; an excellent sign ahead of its occupation date in the first quarter of 2020.

“Travel on Airbnb is helping to spread tourism benefits to more families, communities and local businesses,” says Velma Corcoran, Airbnb country manager for sub-Saharan Africa.

“It’s never been easier to travel to and stay in SA’s smaller towns.”

“The success of 104 on Creek shows us we’re on the right track when it comes to perceiving the market’s needs for apartment living coupled with the finest lifestyle offering every homeowner could desire, from access to world-class facilities to freedom of movement and the space to roam,” comments Lambert Bezuidenhout, sales manager, Steyn City.

Host earnings from Airbnb in smaller towns have risen significantly.

Mossel Bay, for example, had a year-on-year increase of more than 80%, whereas earnings in Saldanha Bay increased by almost 60%.

As Steyn City’s latest luxury apartment development, 104 on Creek subscribes entirely to the parkland’s ethos of accessibility and ease. The high-specced nature of these two- and threebedroom homes is testimony to this – each boasts double-glazed windows, air-conditioning, selected Siemens appliances and superior fittings, while thoughtful design ensures privacy and comfort. These features may be viewed at the development’s threebedroom showhouse, which has been beautifully decorated by Weylandts.

Prime Heerengracht building redeveloped T

he Mosaic Group, a housing developer responsible for redeveloping several innercity buildings in downtown Durban, is releasing the first of 81 luxury apartments in The Duke, situated on the corner of Hans Strijdom Avenue and Lower Heerengracht in Cape Town.

The hotel-living style apartments offer stunning interiors, a rooftop deck and pool, and views of tree-lined city avenues against the backdrop of Table Mountain.The pricing, from R1,29m, and with no transfer duties, is well below the average of new developments in the CBD. “At about R36,000/m2, this is an offer you wouldn’t want to miss,” says Chris Marsay, marketing manager, Mosaic Group.

Apartments are priced from R2,7m, and measure 96m² up to 133m², complete with undercover parking and a selection with basement parking.

The building’s prime location offers investors an opportunity to take advantage of a vibrant buyto-let Airbnb market taking off in the lower part of the city.

It also gives first-time buyers a crucial step into the notoriously expensive City Bowl real estate market.

The Duke offers a hotel-style lobby with a 24/7 concierge service, air-conditioning throughout, a calisthenics gym, high-speed fibre, 24-hour security, and ample storage-room space.

Nine apartment configurations are available, and buyers have the option of buying an “interior pack” as an add-on to the purchase price, or an unfurnished apartment.

Berlin and Paris lead global prime residential growth B

erlin and Paris experienced standout growth for prime residential property of about 4% over the past six months and 8% growth over the past year, reports the Savills World Cities Prime Residential Index.

However, price growth across leading prime city housing markets continued to dip during the first half of this year.

“There are a number of reasons why prime residential markets in global cities are slowing down, with government policy, the cost of money, increased supply, and global economic uncertainty all playing

their part,” says Savills World Research head Sophie Chick.

The six months to June marked a turning point for various Chinese cities, as prices recovered following drops during the second half of last year.

Hong Kong still has the most expensive residential property in the world at €45,400/m2 (±R745,921/m2), with growth of 1.3%. In Moscow prices increased by 1.2%, after years of falls. In Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur prime prices increased by nearly 2.5% in the first half of the year.

Conversely, over the same period prices fell in many US cities owing to tax changes impacting demand and, in the case of New York and Miami, high levels of stock.

In Dubai, prime prices have fallen 20% in five years and are continuing to drop because of high new-build stock levels and economic uncertainty.

In Sydney and Cape Town, the report shows values have increased significantly over the past five years, but both cities are now experiencing price falls, slowing their property markets.

8 SEPTEMBER 2019

Neighbourhood

PROPERTY NEWS

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Nothing small about ground-breaking building in Woodstock C onstruction is underway on Cape Town’s pioneering micro-living development, 1 On Albert. Ironically, the biggest crane in the Western Cape has been brought on site to assist developers give birth to what will be the first micro apartments in the city.

Once completed, the apartments, designed by award-winning architects Louis Karol and the interiors designed by leading hotel room designer Grant Gillis, will range in size from entry-level 21m2 studios, at a cost of R985,200, to 75m2 two-bedroom

units, at a cost of up to R2,65m – with no transfer duty. All the apartments will feature top-end finishes such as Smeg appliances, flat screen smart TVs and uncapped fibre internet.

“1 On Albert will also feature communal recreational spaces, shops, a food court, laundromat, heated swimming pool and more – all part of a new conceptual design in living known as integrated living solutions which incorporates all the elements needed for inner-city living without actually having to leave the building,” explains Byron Kruger, sales agent, Dogon Group properties.

“Millennials are prepared to sacrifice space and purchase smaller meterage units if the location is right. They want to be close to the city centre, close enough to walk, bike, or rely on public transportation.

“1 On Albert is also a solution for first-time buyers looking to get their foot in the door, and sales have been consistent, despite being in a tough market,” says Rob Stefanutto, director and head, Dogon Group Developments.

Completion is expected by December next year.

Exclusivity in Oranjezicht H

orizon Capital Residential has recently launched four exclusive garden apartments in its latest development, The Aster.

“We adapted our original design to bring something unique to market in the form of garden apartments in the City Bowl, offering purchasers a new apartment with the benefit of escaping into a private landscaped garden,” commented David Sedgwick, residential managing director, Horizon Capital.

The Aster is a boutique block that offers 21 unique apartments, including four apartments which each have access to a private and beautifully landscaped garden area. The gardens range from 22m2 to 80m2 and purchasers can select a jacuzzi-upgrade pack for their outside space as the gardens are exceptionally large.

Two of the garden apartments also incorporate a 4,5m-high ceiling over the living area, creating a luxurious feel of space and airiness. These apartments are ideal for young professionals or couples seeking the thrill and convenience of urban living, but also wanting the privacy and tranquillity that can be difficult

to find in the City Bowl. The garden apartments are also particularly attractive to those with pets.

The interior of the apartments offers a sophisticated design incorporating a darker colour palette with modern industrial elements. These include darker aluminium borders accenting the shower, mirrors and sliding doors.

Purchasers are able to customise their units, with a variety of options to choose from including joinery colour, countertops, flooring as well as a number of integrated appliance options.

along Kloof Street; the excellent public transport of the City Bowl; the beautiful beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay; the green foothills of Table Mountain; and the charming parks and rich heritage of leafy Oranjezicht. The peaceful, familyoriented neighbourhood has views overlooking some of Cape Town’s most iconic sites – Cape Town CBD, Signal Hill, Lion’s Head and Table Mountain.

Sedgwick says, “The Aster maintains our responsible approach to development, and echoes our shared belief in conscious living. Residents can enjoy the benefits of sustainable features like solar water heating, water-efficient fittings and low-energy LED lighting. The four-storey building offers lock-up-and-go convenience with secure basement parking, CCTV,

electric fencing and access control.”

The Aster is priced from R2,495m (including VAT) and as it is a new development, no transfer duty will be payable on transfer. Completion for The Aster is set for the end of 2020.

For investors wishing to let their apartments on a short-term basis, a fully managed offering is also available.

Natural light to the interior has been maximised by designing each apartment with floor-to-ceiling glass and aluminium sliding doors.

Horizon Capital Residential has placed emphasis on communal space, which allows residents to soak in the city, mountain views and sunsets from the communal pool deck and braai area.

Perched on Firdale Avenue in Oranjezicht, the Aster is conveniently located in one of Cape Town’s most sought-after City Bowl neighbourhoods. All you need is just down the road – a myriad of boutique shops, restaurants, bars and cafes

Invest where high W net worth income individuals invest

hile Franschhoek, along with Stellenbosch and Paarl, have seen the highest growth in dollar millionaires in the past 10 years, according to the latest Wealth Report from AfriAsia Bank, this spectacular wine-producing, cultural-rich town has fast become a haven for some of the world’s billion-dollar entrepreneurs and global signature hospitality brands.

at the world-renowned L’Ermitage Chateau & Villas. Set high on the Fransche Hoek Estate, adjacent to the prominent Mont Rochelle Reserve, Chamonix and Haute Cabriere, with breathtaking vistas of the Drakenstein mountain ranges and valley below, this award-winning four-star boutique hotel with conference venue and wedding chapel is centred around a sophisticated country village.

“With price values achieving a significant five-year growth of 149%, the Franschhoek property market is benchmarked as one of the highest growth areas in South Africa,” explains Gerhardt Jooste, general manager, IGrow Group, developer of L’Ermitage Chateau & Villa Phase two, and a niche investment company dedicated to helping independent investors achieve wealth through high-performing property portfolios.

“The villas are designed as premium residential accommodation and self-catering hotel suites. Apart from securing a first-class lifestyle as a private holiday home or weekend retreat, esteemed investors will also have the option to capitalise on the rental opportunities available through the coveted L’Ermitage Hotel,” explains Jooste.

With only a few parcels of land open for development, a distinctive, high-yield opportunity to invest in 18 exclusive hotel villas has become available

“If one considers the average house price in Franschhoek exceeds R10m, L’Ermitage offers excellent value for money, high capital growth, and exceptional return on investment,” says Jooste.