Neighbourhood CT - 30 August 2015

RSA

Neighbourhood 30 AUGUST 2015

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

Breathtaking The beauty of the Western Seaboard

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Turn to page 10 for more

Nationally, the largest property marketplace in South Africa

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FLOWER SHOWS

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NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: WESTERN SEABOARD

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LIVE, WORK, PLAY

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HOUT BAY RENT

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

Getting acquainted with

Editor’s Exclusive

Asoka

CLAIRE BARNARDO

Local blooms W

ith the cooler months coming to a close, nature sure knows how to shift gear quite quickly. Along the West Coast fynbos and flowers are blossoming in troves. I chatted to Ulrich Donaggi, organiser for the Hopefield Fynbos Show, about the facts of this natural delight. Don’t miss out on what is right on our doorstep.

Walking up a buzzing Kloof Street, I could never have imagined that a secret cove among bustling stores and restaurants would hold such a beautiful surprise WORDS: MEAGHAN ESSEL

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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s I climbed the little flight of stairs leading to the deck of Asoka, a flutter of dainty lights shone down to reveal a casual yet classy setting. Cushions were scattered on the inviting couches surrounding the perimeter of the deck and blooms of fresh flowers stood on quirky tables held up by authentic barrels. The door to Asoka was open and within was a fairy tale.

The restaurant’s interior held scores of details; the lighting was romantically dimmed. The walls glittered with

fascinating murals of Oriental vines running with quaint wildlife. The staff welcomed us warmly and I found a minty fresh cucumber Orchard Breeze cocktail in front of me.

The menu was short but sophisticated, lined with high-quality Asian-fusion delicacies and charming little sweet treats. Tempura prawns on a wooden board with a serving of sweet chilli sauce arrived at our table, each bite and tangy crunch of perfectly cooked prawns even better than the last. After a short while, the main attraction

arrived: teriyaki beef with shiitake mushrooms and wasabi mayo.

And then, the famous dessert medley.

The board carried a rich chocolate brownie, ice cream with a lick of chocolate sauce, expertly crafted crème brûlée, crunchy shortbread sticks and a featherlight strawberry panna cotta to drive you mad. Sinfully delicious, there’s always room for this kind of dessert.

If you’re looking for a romantic night out, make your way to 68 on Kloof for an unforgettable dining experience.

Fynbos is still rather an undervalued South African natural feature ULRICH DONAGGI

8 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW: Hopefield is just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town CBD It’s the 26th annual fynbos show Started by a group of passionate farmers Fynbos is a protected vegetation Two thirds of fynbos is found in the Western Cape Over 600 different species of fynbos are in Hopefield Hopefield is one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet The exhibition is used for research purposes

SEE FOR YOURSELF:

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TASTE FOR YOURSELF:

turn to page for more on the wildflower shows

PUBLISHED BY THE CREATIVE GROUP 9 6th Street, Parkhurst, 2193 011 476 6293 thecreativegroup.info

Asoka 021 422 0909 asokabar.co.za

THE CREATIVE GROUP CEO: Shaun Minnie shaun.minnie@thecreativegroup.info EDITORIAL TEAM Group Editor: Claire Barnardo claire.barnardo@thecreativegroup.info Creative Director: Mark Peddle

Editorial Consultant: Bridget McNulty Chief Copy Editor: Yaron Blecher Copy Editor: Charis Le Riche Art Director: Leah de Jager Designer: Megan Cooper Online Editor: Lauren Joubert

ADVERTISING SALES: Visit yourneighbourhood.co.za or call 087 828 0423 Sales & Marketing Manager: Michèle Jones michele.jones@thecreativegroup.info Neighbourhood Manager: Dylan Rothschild dylan.rothschild@thecreativegroup.info Production (Editorial & Property Advertising): Lucea Goosen lucea@yourneighbourhood.co.za

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

SA’s top Chenins

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Both big hitters and boutique estates walked away winners when the results of the Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge were announced WORDS: RICHARD HOLMES IMAGES: SUPPLIED & ISTOCK

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outh Africa boasts more hectares of Chenin Blanc vineyards than the vine’s traditional home in France’s Loire Valley, so it’s perhaps no surprise that local winemakers are producing world-class Chenin Blanc.

This year, 145 wines were entered into the annual Standard Bank Chenin Blanc Top 10 Challenge – that’s a 15% jump on last year’s competition – with each wine evaluated by a panel made up of wine judges, sommeliers and writers from South Africa and abroad. Each wine was judged blind, meaning that the panel had no indication of the wine’s vintage, region of origin or treatment in the cellar when scoring; the wine in the glass had to do the talking.

“The overall quality was very good,” says Christian Eedes, chairman of the judging panel. “Chenin Blanc is now such a high-calibre category that it is quite possible to conceive of two or three other equally plausible line-ups of winners in addition to the official top 10.”

While large producers, including KWV, Simonsig and Spier, once again made an appearance in the top 10, this year’s selection also saw the inclusion of boutique and garagiste producers on the list.

The 2010 white from Aeternitas Wines, crafted by Kanu winemaker Johan Grimbeek and his wife, Michelle, in their suburban garage, bagged a spot on the list alongside the 2014 from high-end Stellenboschkloof winery DeMorgenzon.

The Swartland may be stealing much of the limelight when it comes to sexy Chenin Blanc, but the awards also highlighted that top Chenin can be produced across the Western Cape, with winning wines drawn from Stellenbosch to the Swartland, Paarl to the Piekenierskloof.

If there’s a common thread linking the top wines it’s that old vineyards are best, says Ken Forrester, chairman of the Chenin Blanc Association. “There can no longer be any doubt of the role that old vines play in the excellence of Chenin Blanc, with all the wines coming off vineyards older than 20 years,” he says. “May it stay long in the ground.”

THE WINNERS: Leopard’s Leap Wines Culinaria Collection 2014 Boutinot The Tea Leaf 2014 Perdeberg Winery The Dry Land Collection Barrel Fermented 2014 KWV Cathedral Cellar 2014 Simonsig Chenin Avec Chêne 2014

Each wine was judged blind… the wine in the glass had to do the talking

Aeternitas Wines 2010 Stellenrust 49 Barrel Fermented 2013 Spier 21 Gables 2014 L’Avenir Single Block 2014 DeMorgenzon Reserve 2014

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

Flower power

Head up the West Coast to see the spring flowers on display this weekend at two major wildflower shows WORDS: KIT HEATHCOCK

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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verseas visitors come flocking to see the legendary Western Cape spread of spring flowers in August and September. But it’s all too easy for locals to take our natural riches for granted and let the brief season pass without experiencing the carpets of daisies or the scent of fynbos in flower.

Two long-established wildflower shows this weekend make it easy to view the incredible floral diversity of the West Coast, so now’s the time to gather a picnic, camera and friends and meander up the West Coast to soak up all that wild beauty.

Clanwilliam

The Clanwilliam Wildflower Show celebrates the diversity of its four distinct biomes this year. If you don’t know the difference between renosterveld and fynbos, sandveld and succulent Karoo, here in the town’s Gothic church you can see beautiful displays of blooms from each separate biome under one roof.

Then grab one of the informative maps and set off to explore the area and see the same flowers in their natural setting.

The show is sustainably produced with CapeNature – the 400 species of freshly picked wildflowers on display leave the biomes undisturbed. The streets of Clanwilliam are alive with a festive atmosphere on the weekend and there’s

a craft and food market. And, if you ever tire of the flowers, you can take a rock-art tour, go rock climbing or taste rooibos tea.

Hopefield

For coastal fynbos there’s no better place to start than the small town of Hopefield, where there are more than 600 different species in the surrounding veld. The focus of the Hopefield Fynbos Show is on conservation. For the duration of the show, the sports hall is transformed into an oasis of colour to rival the Chelsea Flower Show. In fact, several passionate Hopefielders have been involved in that prestigious show and use their knowledge to create a world-class display. Take a guided tractor ride into the veld to see the flowers in the wild, relax in the beer garden where there is live music, join the mountain-bike challenge on Saturday or the fun walk on Sunday, or enjoy an organ recital in the historic church.

SEE FOR YOURSELF: Clanwilliam Wildflower Show Until 5 September 027 482 2024 clanwilliamflowerfestival.co.za Hopefield Fynbos Show Last day today! facebook.com/hopefield.fynbos

P943 M 11.1 kW Available in various colours

Heat your entire home by ducting from a freestanding or built-in PIAZZETTA fireplace.

NEWS & LIFESTYLE A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION

Neighbourhood

30 23 AUGUST 2015

TUT-EXHIBITION.CO.ZA

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Neighbourhood

09 AUGUST 2015

LONG BEACH

Indulge in exquisite 5-Star Contemporary Luxury in Mauritius Take advantage of our special offers at Long Beach Resort, nestled on the edge of the Island’s longest and most beautiful natural beaches.

5 Great reasons to choose Long Beach Over 1.3 km of white sandy beach, overlooking an unspoiled coral-reef lagoon A family friendly resort taking equal care of adult guests and their children of all ages A choice of 5 restaurants offering different dining experiences

Long Beach Standard Garden view Half board 10% early booking discount included Pay 5, stay 7 Children u/12 years fly, stay, play and eat FREE of charge when sharing with adults year-round

09 Dec - 21 Dec 2015

A fully-equipped Fitness Centre and Sea Spa Easy access to the iconic island of Ile aux Cerfs and the famous Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club, including free green fees and complimentary transfers

7 nights from R 17 420 - Ex JNB 7 nights from R 17 840 - Ex DUR 7 nights from R 18 290 - Ex CPT

Package includes: Return flights to Mauritius, return coach transfers, meals as specified, all land and non-motorised water sports as per brochure, daily entertainment. Package excludes: passport and visa (costs if applicable), travel insurance, items of a personal nature, approximate taxes. All rates quoted are per adult sharing and subject to availability at time of making the booking. Airfares and taxes are subject to change within specified seasons and are carrier specific, which could impact on the rate quoted. Rates are subject to currency fluctuations which are subject to change without prior notification.�

Please call your nearest travel professional

or World Leisure Holidays on 0860 954 954 / www.wlh.co.za /

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Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

As we move into spring, we opt for LOWDOWN fewer hot coffees and

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

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LOCAL

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more cool cocktails!

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Pancho’s

Treat yourself to the most renowned frozen margaritas in Cape Town by booking a table at Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant in Observatory. You can choose either lemon or strawberry flavour, or mix the two. The food, an array of Mexican dishes such as Mexican tortilla soup, chilli con carne and nachos, is very affordable and amply portioned. The interior is decorated in a vintage Mexican style with a casual vibe. The restaurant, in all its popularity, is always full. Booking in advance is advised.

WORDS: ANDY MÖLLER

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Rafiki’s

If you’re looking for something closer to Cape Town’s hub, Rafiki’s offers an ideal African-Jamaican ambience with an adventurous cocktail menu. A personal favourite is the Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster, which looks too beautiful to drink, but tastes too delicious not to. If you’re feeling peckish, try the Zombie Basket, which comes with pork ribs, a cheesy corn dog, chicken wings and bitterballen (a savoury Dutch meatbased snack). The venue is usually filled to the brim, especially during aired sports matches (people just love the open balcony and big projectors), so book your table in advance.

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EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF: Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant 021 447 4854 fb.me/1PzMqew

World Class House

If you prefer a more refined ambience and new luxury cocktails, don’t miss World Class House, a main part of the World Class Bartender of the Year competition. Treat your eyes and taste buds as you watch some of the most talented mixologists strut their stuff, with brands like Johnnie Walker whisky, Don Julio tequila, Zacapa rum, Ketel One vodka, Tanqueray gin and (prior to its launch in SA) Bulleit bourbon – all part of a unique menu created just for the occasion. World Class House opened its doors on 28 August and will run until 5 September, from 6pm to 11pm, at the Roodebloem Studios. Spots are limited so book your tickets now online.

Rafiki’s 021 426 4731 rafikis.co.za

Read more about Andy Möller’s Mother City adventures on his blog: iamonline.ninja

World Class House theworldclasshouse.com

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

30 AUGUST 2015

Neighbourhood

Meet the Artist: Andrew Sutherland In the final part of our Cape Town artists series, we meet illustrator, designer and artist Andrew Sutherland, and find out what inspired his work for Chas Everitt’s Cape Town Best Views campaign WORDS: BRIDGET MCNULTY IMAGE: MARK PEDDLE

Q: What is your favourite medium to work in?

A: I enjoy working on canvas and paper equally. When working on paper, I generally work quite small and use watercolours. I find my approach is slow and sensitive, whereas when I am working on canvas, due to the larger scale, I use all sorts of materials and paint more expressively. They each require a different approach, but are equally rewarding.

Q: How do you think the combination of illustration, design and fine art plays into your painting style?

A: Having the knowledge of different practices has definitely helped me explore media and styles. I really enjoy cross-pollinating ideas, so adding elements of illustration to painting and vice versa seems very natural.

I would really like to continue this idea and start incorporating things like photography and collage into my work.

Q: Which artists inspire you?

A: I would say I am strongly influenced by the cubists and their approach to

painting, as well as artists like Turner, whose work contains great subtlety and mystery. I am also lucky enough to be surrounded by great artists here in Cape Town, like Paul Senyol, Andrzej Urbanski, Katrin Coetzer and Kirsten Sims, to name a few.

Q: Where do you find inspiration in daily life?

A: The great thing about living in Cape Town is that you don’t have to go far to find inspiration. I find what I need walking up the mountain or in one of the many galleries in and around town.

Q: Could you tell us about your process for the Chas Everitt painting?

A: When I saw the photo I decided to pick an element and work with it. In this case, it was the docks. I found a great book at the Milnerton market called Golden Heritage from the 1960s. While paging through it I found an image of the docks and it instantly resonated with me. I reworked it, adding in a few new elements and removing others to get me to the final version.

The great thing about living in Cape Town is that you don’t have to go far to find inspiration

win Stand a chance to

win Andrew’s artwork by liking, commenting or sharing any Chas Everitt posts containing the hashtag

#CEbestCPTviews

WANT TO MEET ANDREW? Watch a video of him working in his creative space on facebook.com/ ChasEverittCapeTown

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Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

Colour futures WORDS: CHRIS REID

IMAGE: PLASCON

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racking consumer colour trends is a big and sometimes complex business. One has to keep an eye on the world of fashion, design, media and art, and work out what’s going to make the leap to become the next big paint colour in people’s homes.

This is often linked to key events, such as the crossover between sportswear and home colours to coincide with the Rio Olympics. But it can also be as bizarre as Pantone’s newly released Minion yellow, a tie-in with the eponymous movie.

In South Africa, Plascon is a leading source of colour trend information. According to Anne Roselt, colour manager: Plascon, this year’s Colour Forecast “is all about looking to the future with optimism” and captures the spirit of experimentation and playfulness that’s happening in the world.

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

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Two of the themes, Heirloom and Connect, are inspired by art, but from very different periods. The former is a homage to old master colours and techniques, and the latter is characterised by the flat brights and playfulness of the Memphis design movement.

Element, on the other hand, is the grounding theme in the palette and looks to minerals and rocks for colour inspiration. The colours in Discovery are inspired by the stars and lights in the night sky.

What seems to bring these quite different trend stories together is a desire to ground and locate the self, whether it’s finding a place in history or defining a space in the world. When we live in uncertainty, we look to the familiar for comfort, and colour can do that as much as any other component of design.

This year’s colour forecast is all about looking to the future with optimism ANNE ROSELT, COLOUR MANAGER: PLASCON

SEE FOR YOURSELF: Plascon plascon.co.za

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SPOTLIGHT

30 AUGUST 2015

Neighbourhood

RSA

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT Shining a light on SA’s featured neighbourhood

Spotlight on Western Seaboard Long beaches, great surf, an array of water sports and a picture-postcard view of Table Mountain create an ideal backdrop to a relaxed family lifestyle WORDS: KIT HEATHCOCK

IMAGES: ANTON SCHOLTZ, ISTOCK & GOOGLE

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

On just about any windy afternoon along the beachfront from Dolphin Beach to Bloubergstrand, the sky is filled with swooping bird-like flocks of colour as the kitesurfers take to the waves. The whole length of the Western Seaboard is known for its fantastic surf, so it’s no surprise that water-sports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies are drawn to live here. But that’s not the whole story of Cape Town’s West Coast suburbs.

These suburbs stretch from Milnerton through Table View to Bloubergstrand and Big Bay. It’s a place where families settle, where there are plenty of schools and facilities within easy reach, and where the beach and ocean are a recreation ground for everybody.

“Table View has quite a holiday feel, being so close to the sea,” says Tarryn Badenhorst, who has lived here for 20 years. “It’s away from the city, but there’s the convenience of shops close by and the beach down the road. There’s a really relaxed vibe.”

of Atlantic Surf Co. “I can walk from home to my shop and then be out surfing or kitesurfing in no time. It’s a good lifestyle.”

For fans of flat-water action, another playground awaits. Rietvlei is the place to go for windsurfing, canoeing and even water-skiing at the Milnerton Aquatic Club. The Table View Nature Reserve, including the Rietvlei wetlands and lagoon, is a haven for wildlife, with flamingos, pelicans and many other waterbirds, and there are paths and boardwalks around the edge for nature lovers and bird-watchers.

Table View has quite a holiday feel, being so close to the sea. It’s away from the city, but there’s the convenience of shops close by and the beach down the road. There’s a really relaxed vibe TARRYN BADENHORST, RESIDENT

The long strands from Sunset Beach up to Blouberg are all about action rather than leisurely sunbathing or bucket-and-spade play. When the wind blows they are exposed to its full force, which is what makes the area so great for adrenaline sports.

But the more sheltered Kleinbaai at Bloubergstrand is where families take small children for safe beach time, where the rocky outcrops are perfect for rock-pool adventures.

“It’s a very outdoor lifestyle, close to the ocean, close to work, with beautiful views,” says Anton Fourie

Milnerton is the oldest of the suburbs and the closest to Cape Town’s CBD. It attracts families who love the proximity to the beach and the spacious, open feel, and who find it more affordable than the Southern Suburbs. However, there are plenty of areas – such as the prestigious Sunset Links Golf Estate on the Milnerton golf course – that can rival anywhere in Cape Town in terms of exclusivity and price. Its long-established public schools, Milnerton Primary, Seamount Primary and Milnerton High School, have an excellent reputation and are another draw card as well as being a focus of the community for many.

“The schools are close by, so many kids walk to school,” says Lara Kawalsky, who has lived in Milnerton for 20 years.

“You see the same parents walking their kids and dogs to school every day, so it is very social and people get to know one another that way.”

SPOTLIGHT

A feature of Table View is the large number of churches encompassing all denominations and faiths, with very active youth groups and community programmes. Here there’s also a wide choice of schools, from the public schools, Table View and Blouberg Ridge primary schools and Table View High, to the smart new private schools in the adjacent suburbs: Elkanah House, CBC St Johns and Parklands College.

The vibe throughout the area is downto-earth and this is reflected in the cafés and restaurants. If you’d prefer fine-dining establishments, rather head to town or to the Winelands, but if you want sundowners with a fabulous view of Table Mountain, a casual family café, a lively post-surf eatery or the perfect brunch spot, there’s plenty of choice.

Shopping is easy, too. Bayside in Table View is the largest mall, with all the major stores and a cinema, while Paddocks (part of the redevelopment of the old racecourse) serves Milnerton. There are several smaller neighbourhood centres too.

The large commercial and lightindustrial districts of Montague Gardens and Paarden Eiland are within easy reach, as is Canal Walk, and all are connected by the MyCiTi bus network, which branches out in all directions from its hub in Table View.

If everyday beach time, ocean spray, open horizons, spectacular sunsets and that iconic view of Table Mountain are what inspire you, then the Western Seaboard definitely has what it takes.

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SPOTLIGHT

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

EAT LIKE A LOCAL Maestros on the Beach, for fabulous sunset views and good food Wang Thai, for the best Thai in town Petits Fours, for great breakfasts, cakes and lunches with a view The Italian Club, for authentic Italian food and atmosphere Melissa’s, for chic breakfasts and lunches Catch 22, for seafood, a lively vibe and great views News Café, for all-day breakfasts

The whole length of the Western Seaboard is known for its fantastic surf, so it’s no surprise that water-sports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies are drawn to live here

MORE THINGS TO DO Browse the Milnerton Flea Market for collectibles and bargains Join a full-moon beach walk or run Go motor racing at Killarney Gardens Watch ships going in and out of Cape Town harbour from the beach Take in a theatrical production at the Milnerton Playhouse Play golf at the scenic Milnerton Golf Club

Neighbourhood

Demand

30 AUGUST 2015

SPOTLIGHT

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Properties for sale in Milnerton, Table View and Blouberg comprise 10% of total sales listings in the Cape Town region. They receive:

of the interest

9%

8%

of the total rental listings

If everyday beach time, ocean spray, open horizons, spectacular sunsets and that iconic view of Table Mountain are what inspire you, then the Western Seaboard has what it takes

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SPOTLIGHT

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

Property prices on the Western Seaboard

R1,825m

6% of properties for sale are in a complex, at an average asking price of

R1,86m

R1,57m

Average monthly rental for a three-bedroom house:

Milnerton is the oldest of the suburbs and the closest to Cape Town’s CBD. It attracts families who love the proximity to the beach and the spacious, open feel, and who find it more affordable than the Southern Suburbs

is the average asking price of a typical three-bedroom house for sale in Milnerton, Table View or Blouberg

R17,500

is the average asking price of 30% of properties, many of which are flats

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30 AUGUST 2015

SPOTLIGHT

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These suburbs stretch from Milnerton through Table View to Bloubergstrand and Big Bay. It’s a place where families settle, where there are plenty of schools and facilities within easy reach, and where the beach and ocean are a recreation ground for everybody

WATCH THIS NEIGHBOURHOOD COME TO LIFE AT

www.privateproperty.co.za/blouberg

1108 NEW PROPERTIES every day.

*Average over the last 3 months.

Property on the move.

A home for everyone www.privateproperty.co.za

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

Work/live/play

’hoods here to stay Security and convenience are among the reasons cited for the growing popularity of mixed-use developments WORDS: LISA DEWBERRY

IMAGE: ISTOCK

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he number of live/work/play precincts being developed across South Africa has grown in the past decade. Examples include Menlyn Maine in Pretoria and Steyn City in Johannesburg. And there are some property professionals who say these are the developments of the future.

Jonathan Davies, manager: Pam Golding Properties Hyde Park, says that in Gauteng there’s been a strong push towards mixed-use private cities, especially in the past five years. The reason for this, he says, is the increasing urbanisation of city centres, rising traffic volumes, the erratic provision of public utilities and a desire among South Africans in the middle to higher income brackets to live in secure and convenient environments. “These urban challenges are likely to become more pronounced over time. Residents are looking to reduce travel time and costs, and seek greater convenience within a secure environment. They acquire property in these communities because schooling, work, shopping, entertainment and leisure activities are all within close proximity,” says Davies. There is also an increasing focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency within these neighbourhoods, he adds.

Ewald Kellerman, spokesperson: Absa Home Loans, says that millennials and empty nesters in particular are moving to such neighbourhoods because they find everything they need within walking or cycling distance. Meanwhile, their parents, who are approaching retirement, choose to downscale because their large homes cost too much

to maintain and their family vehicle starts costing too much to drive.

“Many are seeking homes that better suit their lifestyle, require little maintenance, are close to amenities and allow for a sense of community and “lock up and go” freedom. Costs of accommodation can be significantly diminished by reductions in travelling and sharing of communal expenses,” says Kellerman.

Wiehan Strydom, spokesperson: Atterbury Properties, says all-inclusive neighbourhoods are being developed mainly due to the idea that time shouldn’t be wasted in traffic and because businesses are supporting flexitime, where employees work from home or satellite offices. He says they offer efficiency of time, safety and work-play-live balance, and are a safe investment. This type of development will continue as long as traffic issues are not resolved and until crime in conventional neighbourhoods improves, he adds.

They acquire property in these communities because schooling, work, shopping, entertainment and leisure activities are all within close proximity JONATHAN DAVIES, MANAGER: PAM GOLDING PROPERTIES HYDE PARK

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Analyse it

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

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RSA

NATIONAL NEWS STORY

PATRICK CAIRNS

Opening the door to different neighbourhoods in SA

Own a piece New to the Neighbourhood: of the V&A Big Bay, Western Seaboard Waterfront

There’s nothing more exciting than moving into a new neighbourhood. Here’s what Dr Bozena Dudka loves about her new home on the Western Seaboard WORDS: ANDREA KIRK

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or as long as the concept of private ownership has existed, property has been a desirable investment. Not only is it a tangible asset, but land is also a limited resource. A plot in a desirable area is not something that can be duplicated or commoditised, and so, over time, it is a very good store of value.

Bricks-and-mortar buildings also give investors a sense of security. Being able to see and touch your investments is appealing to many people.

However, property does tend to be exclusive. Very few of us can afford to own a prime stand in Bishopscourt, for instance, or a popular office block. It can also be expensive and onerous to hold and to manage, as one has to cover rates, taxes and maintenance, as well as deal with the administration of tenants.

Property is also not a liquid or easily divisible asset. Buying and selling it is a process that can potentially take months, and it’s difficult to sell only part of a building.

Over the past couple of decades, however, investors have come to realise that there is a way to access all the best things about property while minimising the negatives. Listed property funds on the JSE have allowed anyone to buy into portfolios of high value assets without having to worry about their day-to-day running. One is also able to buy and sell stakes in these counters at any time because they are traded on the exchange.

Growthpoint, which is the largest listed property counter on the JSE, is in many ways a standard bearer for the sector. It owns retail properties like Constantia Village and the Brooklyn Mall, a host of top-tier office sites like 100 Grayston Drive and 12 Alice Lane, and 50% of the V&A Waterfront. By buying its shares you are effectively taking ownership of a piece – albeit a tiny one – of each of those properties.

In 2005 listed property made up 1,7% of the JSE Shareholder’s Weighted Index (SWIX). In just 10 years that ratio has more than tripled to 6,2%

Over the past 15 years, listed property has proved to be an outstanding investment. Between 2000 and the end of 2014 it outperformed every other local asset class and delivered annualised returns of 21,5%, which was comfortably better than the 17,6% from equities, 8,5% from bonds and 7,4% investors earned from cash.

Investors shouldn’t expect these returns to be repeated, but the rental returns that the property companies earn on top of the capital appreciation of their assets are a solid way to secure inflation-beating returns over the long term. And that should really be the primary aim of any investment.

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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ll her life, Bozena Dudka, a Polish retiree, dreamt of living by the sea. Upon retiring from working as a doctor in Zimbabwe, she moved to Cape Town and fell in love with its beautiful beaches. She has recently purchased a four-bedroom home in Sandown Estates, Big Bay.

sold already. I experienced many disappointments because of this.

I also wish I’d known how limited the property stock is in this area, especially in secure estates.

Q: How did you find your property?

A: I trawled Private Property for hundreds of hours and saw more than 45 houses in the past year. Eventually, I settled on a home in Sandown Estates. I can’t say it’s my absolute dream home, but I love the area and it was a great buy, given my budget.

Q: What do you love about the house?

A: My dream home was modern, with perfect finishes and sweeping sea views. I soon realised I could have one or the other – modern with no views or a fixer-upper on the seafront.

In the end, I settled for a lovely modern home found through Jawitz Properties. It doesn’t have views, but it’s within walking distance of the beach so I get to see the sea every day.

Q: What do you wish you’d known before you started looking?

A: That many of the properties one sees online have actually been

Q: What’s your favourite thing about the area?

A: The pace of life is relaxed. I walk on the beach every day and soak

up the sea air and sunshine. The views of the sea and Table Mountain are spectacular, and the light and atmosphere change from day to day, and hour to hour. I enjoy seeing lots of young people out and about, being active and enjoying life.

Q: What’s your favourite local restaurant or coffee spot?

A: Blowfish Restaurant at the Dolphin Beach Hotel. It has great views, great service and great seafood.

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I enjoy seeing lots of young people out and about, being active and enjoying life

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Neighbourhood

30 AUGUST 2015

Living the high life in

There are also clear indications that big-price sales are about to take place in the near future GERALD ROMANOVSKY, SENIOR RESIDENTIAL ESTATE AGENT: RAWSON PROPERTY GROUP CONSTANTIA

Constantia Buyers are willing to pay a premium for living in this delightful part of the Cape WORDS: LEA JACOBS

IMAGE: ISTOCK

T

here appears to be plenty for sellers to celebrate in Constantia as sales of high-end properties continue to improve.

Gerald Romanovsky, senior residential estate agent: Rawson Property Group’s Constantia franchise, says that nine decidedly upmarket properties have been sold at an average price of R18m over the past 18 months. He notes that the upswing is particularly evident in the Hohenhort or ambassadorial belt, where three properties were sold for an average of R14,5m in the first six months of the year. “The average sales price achieved in the same period last year was very nearly half the figure achieved for this area.”

According to Romanovsky, the upward trend is continuing. “There are also clear indications that big-price sales are about to take place in the near future.

I’m currently negotiating a R40m deal and I believe that another estate agency is about to sell a property off Southern Cross Drive for R50m.”

Interestingly, he notes that the upswing in sales has been accompanied by some significant trend changes. “Previously,

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the fastest appreciating properties were always in Constantia’s well-known and decidedly upmarket security estates. This year, however, the trend is not nearly so marked and many of the top prices achieved have been for independent freestanding homes, which are sited on their own plots,” he says.

Constantia has always attracted high-end buyers, but what is it about the area that appeals to well-heeled individuals? Says Arie Kade, agent: Pam Golding Properties Constantia, “Many of our high-end buyers enjoy the privacy of a large property in a country setting and to be able to work from home or not at all. These clients don’t need to be close to city centres, though by world standards 20 minutes from Cape Town is considered close by. They look for the wow factor, from compact vineyards tucked away in the corner of a two-acre plot, producing 100 bottles a year and managed by a local winemaker, to state-of-theart home cinemas and indoor pools.

Views are top of the list of priorities for many high-end buyers: some of the properties in the area boast spectacular mountain, valley and False Bay views.”

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Rents are soaring in

Hout Bay The demand for property in what was once a small village is driving rentals higher

WORDS: LEA JACOBS

IMAGE: ISTOCK

T

he average price of property sold in the Hout Bay area as of June was R3,4m, or 40% higher than it was five years ago, according to Propstats.

James Lewis, MD: Seeff Hout Bay/ Llandudno, says the demand for rental property has risen sharply over the past few years and that exclusive homes in sought-after security estates now easily command rentals upwards of R28,000 to R45,000 a month.

‘Aside from residential and holiday tenants, there is also significant demand from foreigners, mostly of whom are from the UK and Germany.

The demand for corporate rentals is also up and now makes up 20% of all long term contracts,’ says Lewis.

But it isn’t only the owners of high-end properties who have seen a dramatic rise in rentals. Janine Barry, broker/owner: RE/MAX Home in Hout Bay, says that

If you consider how the village has transformed over the past few years and how the demand for coastal living has risen, it is not surprising that this would boost the demand for rentals JAMES LEWIS, MD: SEEFF HOUT BAY/ LLANDUDNO

a cottage can be rented out for between R10,000 and R15,000 a month, and that one-bedroom apartments start from about R5,000 a month. Two-bedroom units generally command rentals of between R6,000 and R8,500 a month, and a three-bedroom apartment, between R8,500 and R11,000 a month.

“A basic freestanding three-bedroom home could earn a monthly rental of about R15,000. However, monthly rentals of freestanding homes go all the way up to R80,000, depending on the size, view and estate environment,” she adds.

While much of the residential rental growth is still driven by the challenging economic climate, Lewis attributes much of the upswing to the rising demand for the lifestyle on offer.

“If you consider how the village has transformed over the past few years and how the demand for coastal living has risen, it is not surprising that this would boost the demand for rentals here.”

The demand is being driven by people who are relocating from other parts of the country, but an increasing number of Capetonians who hail from the Southern Suburbs and Atlantic Seaboard are looking for properties set on bigger stands and are choosing to move to the area.

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MARKETPLACE

Neighbourhood

MARKETPLACE

Area Guide

Agency Guide

ATLANTIC SEABOARD

BOLAND, OVERBERG

Clifton

36

& HELDERBERG

Green Point

36

Boschenmeer

25

Sea Point

36

Franschhoek

25

Hermanus

25

CITY BOWL

Onrus

25

Oranjezicht

Somerset West

25

36

Atlantic Beach Estate BetterLife Chas Everitt International Property Group ERA Real Estate Leapfrog Nedbank Pam Golding Properties Seeff Properties Sotheby's international Realty

24

33 36 30 32 21 25 - 29 31 22 - 23

WESTERN SEABOARD Atlantic Beach

24, 32, 35

Big Bay

23, 28, 31

Blouberg

30

Bloubergrand

28

Bloubergrise

28

Bloubergstrand

23, 28, 30

Duynefontein

32

Eden on the Bay

30

Flamingo Vlei

31

Lagoon Beach

28

Melkbosstrand

23

Milnerton

28, 30

Parklands

30, 31

Sunningdale

28, 31

Table View

28, 30, 31

Van Riebeeckstrand

23, 28, 32

Waves Edge

28, 31

West Beach

31

Classifieds: Atlantic Beach Property Sales ERA Real Estate Rawson Properties Seeff Properties

35 35 35 35

WEST COAST Jacobsbaai

29

Langebaan

29

Paternoster

29

Shelley Point

29

Yzerfontein

29, 35

NORTHERN SUBURBS Bellville

25

Plattekloof

26, 27

Welgedacht

25

Goodwood

30, 39

Loevenstein

24

9596

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