Neighbourhood PTA - 18 October 2015

RSA

Neighbourhood 18 OCTOBER 2015

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

Pretoria blossoms Family-friendly suburb Val-De-Grace, page 08

+ Nationally, the largest property marketplace in South Africa

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BELUGA MAKEOVER

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TITANIC EXHIBITION

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What’s ON SHOW in Pretoria this weekend?

Get the full list at yourneighbourhood.co.za

SPOTLIGHT: VAL-DE-GRACE

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HOUSE PRICES LEVEL

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

Editor’s Exclusive CLAIRE BARNARDO

Hello summer!

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elcome in the warmer season by heading outdoors, or off to have some fun. Here are some of our favourites this week. Enjoy!

CT - SEA VIEWS & SAUVIGNON BLANC

Beluga reopens The two evening reopening launch events at Beluga in Hazelwood were lavish

JHB - TSHWANE SUMMER FEST

WORDS: LISA DEWBERRY

IMAGES: ISTOCK & SUPPLIED

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lmost 300 guests were served a complimentary sevencourse meal and beverages at the reopening launch events at Beluga The Club in Hazelwood on 14 and 15 September ahead of its reopening on 16 September.

Summer afternoon— summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language HENRY JAMES PTA - ROCKET 88

A variety of guests were invited to the restaurant (now done up in a contemporary “international” style) including fellow restaurateurs, media representatives and members of the public. The restaurant’s team had an opportunity to showcase the food and beverages and let the public know that it’s back in full swing.

Klara Lottering, spokeswoman for Beluga The Club, says a number of changes were made to the restaurant in the four months it was closed, including new owners coming on board, the layout of the restaurant being enhanced, new decor being implemented and

the menu being revamped. She says comfortable, spacious upstairs and downstairs, indoor and outdoor dining areas showcase sleek decor with dark wood panelling, polished marble, bronze and soft textured features.

“Among the hit dishes served on the evenings were the tempura crumbed coconut prawns with tropical dip; duck liver crème brulée with apple preserve and bread wafers; and the slow-braised shoulder of lamb with lamb reduction, buttered mash and roasted vegetables.

The final dessert served was a vanilla crème brulée with a pistachio tulle alongside white Lindt chocolate beignets and vanilla-bean ice cream and butterscotch sauce,” says Klara.

Beluga began as a fine-dining eatery but the menu has since grown to include sushi, dim sum, à la carte dining, cocktails and 200 wines. Beluga offers a variety of food items other restaurants

in the area may not have available, such as prawn ha gao dim sum (crystalskinned shrimp dumplings), pork won tons and Picanha steak.

“Our team of chefs, waiters, hostesses and managers aim to continually improve and refresh the menu and service, exceeding expectations when preparing and serving delicious, quality food and beverages. With fresh ingredients locally sourced, a dedicated culinary team and professional staff with passion and commitment to excellence, Beluga is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience that enriches all those who visit,” says Klara.

TASTE FOR YOURSELF: Beluga The Club 012 340 0353 belugapretoria.co.za

DBN - TOP SUMMER PICNIC SPOTS

And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer F. SCOTT FITZGERALD, THE GREAT GATSBY PE - OKTOBERFEST

PUBLISHED BY THE CREATIVE GROUP Unit G04, Old Castle Brewery Bldg 6 Beach Road, Woodstock Cape Town, 087 828 0423

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

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Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

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Trendy hot spots Where do Pretorians in their 30s go for a night out with friends?

WORDS & IMAGES: LISA DEWBERRY

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ith many bars in Pretoria catering for students, the older crowd may be left wondering where they should head.

The city has some gems conveniently located in the suburbs to satisfy any 30-something looking to party or have a mellow drink with friends.

Rocket 88

Next to Groenkloof Butchery is Rocket 88 Bar and Braai, serving traditional food and drink. Opened

by Lorraine and Hennie Venter in December 2014, it was created in honour of Eddie van Niekerk, Lorraine’s father, the founder of Groenkloof Butchery and an avid car collector, who passed away in July 2014. The name “Rocket 88” reflects Eddie’s rocketengine-powered Oldsmobile and the year of his granddaughter Monique’s birth: 1988. Lending the bar character is a mural painting of an Oldsmobile, a yellow vintage Fiat, traffic lights, posters of bands, and a Jukebox loaded with rock and other old-school numbers. There’s

no set menu: guests create their own plates from a selection that may include a chicken flatty, steak, lamb, mieliepap, potato bake, and pampoenkoekies. These can be washed down with a Bacardi frozen strawberry daiquiri, 88 Juice (the house cocktail made with vodka, triple sec, Bacardi, Blue Curacao and lemonade), craft draught or a jam jar.

Rocket 88 Bar and Braai is a great spot to watch the latest sports or enjoy the quiz nights on Wednesday evenings.

Square Time Cafe

Nestled beneath the trees and overlooking the tranquil Boardwalk Lake, Square Time Cafe at Boardwalk Office Park will make you feel as if you are relaxing in a European square. The bar has been running for 14 years and serves delicious drinks, including cappuccinos, Dom Pedros, smoothies, sparkling wines, cocktails such as the Blaster and the chocolate Martini, as well as shooters, including the Picasso, the Nutty Angel and the Johannesburger. Young professionals

can enjoy a convenient breakfast before work, a burger or steak for lunch and return in the late afternoon for sundowners and dinner with friends.

The plush lounge upstairs with crystal glass chandeliers has a vibrant party atmosphere and a glass-encased seating area for private functions of up to 45 people. On weekends there’s a breakfast buffet of cereals, pastries, bacon and eggs, and a lunchtime carvery of roast lamb, beef and pork belly, all offering great value for money.

Pretoria has some gems conveniently located in the suburbs to satisfy any 30-something looking to party or have a mellow drink with friends

TASTE YOURSELF: Rocket 88 Bar and Braai 012 348 1558 facebook.com/Rocket88BarBraai Square Time Café 012 9916912 squaretimecafe.co.za

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

18 OCTOBER 2015

Neighbourhood

Titanic’s Secrets Unveiled

The human stories are what set this expo apart WORDS: BELINDA MOUNTAIN

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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ontinuing on its world tour, ‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’ is currently in Joburg until 8 November. The official launch of the event on 22 September was a glamorous affair with celebrities and guests dressed to the nines in formal attire from the Titanic’s bygone era. Handsome sailors served blue cocktails and guests nibbled on special Titanic-inspired canapés, including oysters, smoked salmon rolls and liquorice cream cups.

Nick Dreyer, COO: Expo RSA, who opened the exhibit in Rosebank, says, “Although the ‘ship of dreams’ met its demise over a century ago, the spirit of the Titanic and its passengers lives on through ‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’.” The 1,500m2 exhibit features an incredible range of real artifacts that have been brought up from the wreck 4km below the sea, including everything from mustard pots and perfume vials to postcards, old coins, banknotes and perfectly intact dinner services.

Visitors can walk through authentically recreated first- and third-class rooms – with furnishings by the original manufacturers – and even

place their hands on an interactive iceberg that demonstrates just how freezing the temperatures must have been on that fateful night.

The human stories are what set this expo apart, and the personal reasons for many of the guests’ voyages and what happened to each of them and their loved ones make the tragedy even more poignant and real. There’s also a strong link to South Africa, with members of the Titanic Society of SA sharing their stories and letters, as well as a few artifacts with fascinating histories behind them. The strong work of the NSRI is also showcased with an NSRI adventure zone where kids can try their hand at a PlayStation game, dig in the sandpit for treasure and play various board games.

The exhibit is educational and emotional, and I got goosebumps as I read how the musicians on the ship played on until they sank into the water and perished along with over 1,500 other people.

‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’ takes you on a beautifully curated journey through the life of this iconic ship, showing us the power of the human spirit in the face of incredible tragedy.

Although the ‘ship of dreams’ met its demise over a century ago, the spirit of the Titanic and its passengers lives on through ‘Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition’ NICK DREYER, COO: EXPO RSA.

SEE FOR YOURSELF: Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition Book your tickets online at Webtickets webtickets.co.za titanicexpo.co.za

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

NEWS & LIFESTYLE

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The Thrift Fair

Up for some retail therapy combined with a bit of treasure hunting?

On Saturday, 24 October you’ll have the chance to get your hands on some previously loved clothing at The Thrift Fair. Take a friend and head out to Maritimo Football club at 11am for a fashion fix that won’t leave you too broke for a nice lunch afterwards.

LOCAL LOWDOWN

This week don’t miss out

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Georgetown | Secret Soirée

Be transported back to a time where the sweltering heat is applauded with some Hillbilly Bluegrass Tunes, tapping of feet and an icecold beer. On Sunday, 25 October at 2pm the band Georgetown will be entertaining folks with their modernised blues at a secret venue in Garsfontein. To be part of this you’ll need to pledge for a ticket on the City Soirée website. Bring some rhythm and drinks.

on these hot things to do in the capital city

Chris Chameleon

Your ears will be forever thankful if you treat them to the vocal acrobatics of the one and only Chris Chameleon. On 28 October at 8pm, Centurion Theatre is hosting an evening of Afrikaans with a twist. Chris Chameleon has entertained hundreds of audiences with his melodic poetry. Don’t miss out and book your ticket now.

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF:

Rita-Mari Ludike is a freelance art director, photographer and the blogger behind Rita Hello: ritahello.com

WORDS: RITA HELLO IMAGES: SUPPLIED & ISTOCK

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The Thrift Fair goo.gl/lr3GOU Chris Chameleon goo.gl/Vu6zvR Georgetown - Secret Soirée citysoiree.co.za/events/georgetown

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NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

Smart about health The next wave of healthy technology will be embedded in our homes, much like it’s already embedded in our wearables WORDS: CHRIS REID

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echnology is fast changing our relationship with wellness. A whole new category of fitness “wearables” has sprung up seemingly out of nowhere, with shelves full of devices that help users track their steps, monitor their heart rate and generally nudge them towards a healthier way of living.

With brands such as Jawbone and Fitbit now entrenched as the executive accessory of choice, the next wave of health technology is already waiting in the wings. This time it is set to move beyond the individual to become embedded into our living spaces themselves, making our homes smarter and us healthier.

IMAGES: SEVENHUGS

The Sevenhugs family sleep monitor tracks a household’s sleeping behaviour in correlation with environmental information One of the major areas designers are focusing on at the moment is using technology to track the rhythms of a home’s inhabitants to help improve their wellbeing.

The Tempo Environment Monitor from Blue Maestro, for example, records long-term trends in temperature, humidity and barometric pressure, to help homeowners fine-tune and manage their home’s heating and ventilation.

In a similar vein, the Sevenhugs family sleep monitor tracks a household’s sleeping behaviour in correlation with environmental information, to wake family members up at the optimum time, monitor their sleep health and keep tabs on the children if they wake up at night.

As with all discussions of smart homes in the South African context, it’s good to keep in mind that we’re still at the beginning of the trend curve. Issues of wellness are, however, as much a part of our national psyche as anywhere else in the world, and so as uptake of smart home technology continues, home health technology should follow suit.

SEE FOR YOURSELF: Blue Maestro bluemaestro.com Sevenhugs seven-hugs.com

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SPOTLIGHT

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

Spotlight on

Val-De-Grace The central, friendly suburb of Val-De-Grace presents a great opportunity to buy a home for renovating WORDS: LISA DEWBERRY

IMAGES: GOOGLE, ISTOCK & ANTON SCHOLTZ

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

ValDe-Grace in PretoriaEast is a peaceful well-established family-friendly suburb with large houses and gardens and excellent community spirit.

This colourful suburb filled with jacaranda trees and azalea bushes is situated between Brummer Street in the north, Wildevy Avenue in the south, Ysterhout Avenue in the west and Moreleta Spruit to the east.

The suburb offers easy access to the N4 highway to visit Pretoria city and Witbank, and to the N1 highway to get to Johannesburg.

The Moreleta Spruit winds its way around the east side of the suburb, creating green spaces with abundant vegetation and birdlife in the area.

Louis Pieterse, a 45-year-old resident of the area for nine years, says this suburb is special because the houses are mostly old and situated on large stands, many of which include swimming pools and tennis courts.

He says the area is being rejuvenated and that some of the old houses can be bought at reasonable prices and then renovated, and that this is attracting many new families to the area.

Louis says, “Residents are compassionate and always lend a helping hand, standing together to protect each other. Joggers, cyclists and pedestrians enjoy safe and secure streets, and they will greet even if they don’t know one another personally.

Residents

are actively involved in helping the local police and in assisting the municipality and surrounding suburbs with keeping the area clean, peaceful and beautiful. There are also regular social gatherings, such as braais, potjies, picnics, Youth Day celebrations and carols by candlelight in the park.”

Interesting features of the suburb include the offices of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the South African Police Union (SAPU) being located in the area. The SIU was established by government to recover and prevent financial losses to the state caused by acts of corruption, fraud and maladministration. The SAPU, meanwhile, contributes to the improvement of conditions of employment, professional, economic, social and cultural interests of its members within the policing cluster.

Joggers, cyclists and pedestrians enjoy safe and secure streets, and they will greet even if they don’t know one another personally LOUIS PIETERSE, RESIDENT

Mandy Coetsee, the 43-year-old security manager of Lynn De Grace Residential Estate, has lived in Val-De-Grace for nine years. One of the highlights of living in the area, she says, is the top-notch security. She says they are “blessed” to have little crime in the area and that residents successfully manage their own “in-house security” with a team of security personnel.

“Residents decided six years ago to do something about crime. They contribute time to make the security initiative work and maintain systems, including CCTV cameras, a control room and an armedreaction vehicle. There is active collaboration between our neighbourhood and surrounding

SPOTLIGHT

neighbourhood community watch projects. The radio network between community members and different neighbourhoods is effective in helping to reduce crime,” says Mandy.

The Val-De-Grace Dierekliniek is a much-loved institution in the suburb, staffed with dedicated and loyal staff members. For human friends or family in distress, there is a Lifeline branch in the area.

Lifestyle and entertainment options include Watermeyer Park Shopping Centre where Woolworths Food, Mimmos, Clicks, Cycle Mania and Virgin Active are some of the tenants.

A number of good schools catering for English and Afrikaans learners are situated in or close to Val-De-Grace, including the St Paulus pre-primary and primary schools, Ladybird Nursery School and Laerskool Skuilkrans.

Parents considering enrolling their kids in schools in the area will find a good balance of academic, sports and cultural amenities.

For a peaceful family lifestyle in an entrenched suburb with good security, restaurants, lifestyle amenities, schools and outdoor opportunities, Val-De-Grace is a wonderful choice. Its residents actively care about the suburb and each other. It is a great opportunity for putting down roots.

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SPOTLIGHT

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

Things to do in and around Val-De-Grace •

Pick out a bicycle or cycling accessories at Cycle Mania at Watermeyer Park Shopping Centre.

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Have a picnic while the children play on the swing sets at Maroela Park.

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Get involved in the community security initiative.

•

Enjoy a bite to eat at Mimmos at Watermeyer Park Shopping Centre.

The Moreleta Spruit winds its way around the east side of the suburb, creating green spaces with abundant vegetation and birdlife in the area MORELETA SPRUIT

Property demand in Val-De-Grace

1%

1%

1%

Properties listed for sale in the Val-De-Grace region comprise approximately 1% of the total sale listings in the Pretoria East region.

Approximately 1% of the interest (views) in properties for sale in the Pretoria East area is attributable to properties listed for sale in Val-De-Grace.

Properties listed for rent in Val-De-Grace comprise approximately 1% of the total rental listings in the Pretoria East area.

1%

Approximately 1% of the interest (views) in properties for rent in the Pretoria East area is attributable to properties listed for rent in Val-De-Grace.

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

Median asking prices for Val-De-Grace properties

R1,723m For a typical property (three-bedroom house)

R1,47m For a property in a complex

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SPOTLIGHT

R1,74m

Property types for sale

12%

Complex

For a house

88% House

Property types for rent

60%

20% Complex

House

Median monthly asking prices for Val-De-Grace rentals

20% Flat/Apartment

R6,000 For a typical rental property (four-bedroom apartment)

R8,200

R12,000

R4,200

in a complex

for a house

for a flat

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PROPERTY NEWS

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

Self-employed?

Improve your chances of getting approval for a home loan

Approved! S

WORDS: LISA DEWBERRY IMAGE: ISTOCK

elf-employed individuals seem to face more obstacles than other employees when attempting to get a home loan application approved.

However, Shaun Rademeyer, CEO of BetterLife Home Loans, says there’s been a rise in the percentage of selfemployed individuals’ home loan applications being approved. This is in line with a general improvement in approval rate over five years, from 30% after the recession to about 60% today.

“We’ve also seen an increase in the number of home loan applications from self-employed individuals in the last year of between 8% and 9% of total applications, whereas five years ago these were an average of 6% to 7% of total applications. This may be due to the rise in entrepreneurism and the increasing number of individuals establishing businesses in South Africa,” he says.

Rademeyer adds that it can take longer for self-employed individuals to be assessed and approved because it’s not as easy for them to provide proof of income and financial stability as it is for individuals employed by others and who can produce payslips and letters of employment.

According to Rademeyer, self-employed individuals can make the process easier and faster by preparing beforehand, checking and improving their credit rating, decreasing debt, supplying proof of cash reserves and assets, saving up for a large deposit and not applying for new credit until their application is approved.

Guy Saville, director: IT, credit and systems at SA Home Loans, says about 15% of its applications come from selfemployed applicants, but the group has seen a slight reduction in the volume of applications submitted by the selfemployed. He says this may be due to the economy and regulatory environment not being conducive to small businesses.

“It’s more difficult for self-employed individuals to be approved for home loans as the volatility of their earnings through economic cycles and in times of economic stress are higher than individuals receiving a regular salary.

If the economy slows sharply, small businesses are first and hardest hit, with cash flow coming under pressure and bond repayments ceasing,” says Saville.

According to Saville, the financial accounting in small businesses is often weak, unreliable or behind. He says the gap between accounting profit and actual cash flow often makes it difficult to assess whether the applicant could afford the loan repayments.

“To improve being approved for a home loan, self-employed individuals should have up-to-date business and personal accounting, as well as banking and record-keeping, including tax returns.

Any over-indebtedness or irresponsible credit-repayment behaviour is likely to deter the lender. We take a personalised approach to lending decisions, and each application is assessed individually by a skilled underwriter on particular circumstances and merits,” says Saville.

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

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PROPERTY NEWS

Analyse it PATRICK CAIRNS

Children and money F

or better or worse, children have to grow up very quickly these days. Childhood innocence does not last very long.

Parenting has perhaps never been more challenging or complex. How much can you let your children find out for themselves, and where do you have to draw the line and provide guidance?

There are things most parents perhaps will agree on – for instance that it is up to them to address questions of sexuality. But what about money?

How do parents prepare their children to be financially responsible?

Even today, it is more likely that parents will talk about sex and drugs than about their finances. For whatever reason, it is more uncomfortable to discuss what we earn and how we invest than it is to deal with things that were until very recently taboo.

This problem is heightened by the age of “invisible money”. When most of our transactions happen using credit cards and internet banking, our children hardly ever see cash.

This makes it harder for them to appreciate that there is a real cost to things. “Invisible money” can appear like an unlimited resource, rather than something that needs to be appreciated and managed.

Given the high levels of debt and a poor savings culture in South Africa, this is something that parents need to treat seriously. Preparing your children to handle money should be seen as a critical part of their upbringing.

That means explaining why you go to work every day, and that even things that appear to be abundant, like water, electricity and Wi-Fi, come at a cost.

Children that understand this are not only less likely to take what they have for granted, but will be better prepared for their own future.

It is more uncomfortable these days to discuss with our children what we earn and how we invest, than it is to deal with things like sex and drugs that were until very recently taboo

It means not just handing out pocket money to be spent at will, but using the opportunity to teach about concepts like taxes and saving. Having them allocate a portion of their allowances to different things will help them to understand that they shouldn’t expect to spend everything that they earn.

Most importantly, though, is teaching your children through the way you handle money yourself. In a home where money is always a problem in some way, children will grow up with the perception that this is something to be feared and treated as an adversary.

But where it is managed and treated as a tool rather than a master, children will grow up appreciating that how much money they earn, is not nearly as important as what they do with it.

Multigenerational living in Durban Imagine an estate that encompasses a retirement option and a home for young families… St John’s Village provides all this and more WORDS: LAUREN JOUBERT

IMAGE: SUPPLIED

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amily is an integral part of life.

Keeping your family close is always wished, but is not always a reality. When grandparents get older, they seek a life of peace and sometimes need more care than busy, young parents can provide. The next practical option to ease this issue is retirement homes.

Visualise a place where you are secure, central, close to shopping malls, and just a few steps away, there is a designated retirement village.

Meander through the Midlands

St John’s Village in the Midlands is set to be the foremost retirement and lifestyle estate, sited upon the lush slopes at the edge of the historical town of Howick.

This lifestyle estate holds innovative concepts of agri-urbanism. St John’s Village plays home to an array of upmarket residential sites and cottages

within various “pocket villages”, some of which are retirement cottages and houses suited for younger families.

Going green

There is a noted emphasis on the ideal “green” way of life within St Johns Village. Some of the sustainable features here include: • Solar geysers • Rainwater harvesting tanks • Organically grown fresh produce planted in communal garden areas.

Designed to encompass an estate for multiple generations, this village was designed to offer a lifestyle that is carefree and suitable to both retirees and young families who are looking for a safe, relaxed and fitting living space.

The Orchards Retirement Village

The Orchards consists of 120 semi-

detached, sectional title retirement cottages and are available in one, two and three bedroomed options with either single or double garages.

There are options of carports, open or enclosed balconies, solar heating and rainwater harvesting.

These homes are finished with high-level fittings and offers those that are 55 years and older, a safe commune, close to their families.

There are numerous other facilities available to residents of The Orchards, some which include housecleaning, and rehabilitation.

SEE FOR YOURSELF St John’s Village stjohnsvillage.co.za

Top Tip SIMON BRAY, CEO: PRIVATE PROPERTY

privateproperty.co.za

The rental market is very competitive at the moment, with around 50 tenants for every property listed. A tenant can put themselves at the front of the queue by signing up to Private Property’s Hot Rentals product, which allows you to receive email or SMS alerts an hour before everyone else

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PROPERTY NEWS

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

House prices beginning to plateau?

Industry players say house prices are beginning to level off WORDS: BELINDA MOUNTAIN

IMAGE: ISTOCK

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ouse prices in South Africa are showing signs of plateauing, according to recent research conducted by ooba. The country’s largest bond originator recently released figures showing a significantly slower growth rate year-on-year on house prices. The average purchase price in August 2015 was R1,015,766, an increase of 3.4% from the August 2014 figure of R982,297. But this is a marked slowdown from the double-digit growth of 11% recorded in the second quarter of 2015.

Specifically within the Johannesburg residential market, sellers’ positions have weakened somewhat, says Tony Ketcher, managing director: Seeff Randburg. “Agents are being pushed to work hard at price counselling with

our sellers, and the negotiation process between seller and buyer is becoming more protracted,” he says. “What we are experiencing is a push-down on prices by buyers and this will result in flatter price growth over a period of time.”

Ketcher says that buyers are watching closely when a property is listed. When it’s been on the market for some time, lower offers start to surface – a pattern he attributes to economic factors. “The currently subdued economic mood has also slowed down demand,” he says.

“Many buyers are cautious and would rather wait for the right property.”

Trevor Sedgwick, a Vered estate agent who covers The Parks areas of Joburg, says that after a period of massive growth,

he’s definitely noticed a slowdown in house sales above a certain threshold.

“Anything below the R3,5m mark sells quickly, but the more expensive houses are taking longer to move,” he says.

And, although freestanding houses in Johannesburg are experiencing this slowdown in prices, Sedgwick says that he’s noticed huge growth in more affordable sectional-title properties.

With prices previously increasing at an exponential rate, sellers have had the upper hand for a while now, but the power could soon be in the hands of the buyer – if it hasn’t already shifted.

Buyers will therefore have more time to ensure that the investment they are making is a solid one – and they’ll have more bargaining power in the process.

Neighbourhood

18 OCTOBER 2015

PROPERTY NEWS

On show We’ve got tips from the experts to get you through show-house day

WORDS: LEANDI CAMERON

IMAGE: ISTOCK

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hen you finally put your house on the market, it might open you up to feeling judged by the potential buyers. This is what causes many homeowners to resist show days. However, show days are important, as they are an effective way of marketing your property.

Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX Southern Africa, says, “An agent’s objective is to sell a home for the best possible price in the shortest period of time.”

According to Berry Everitt, MD of Chas Everitt, to prepare yourself for the reality of moving house, and allowing your agent to host a show house, there are a few steps you can follow that will help ease the process.

• Don’t sell on impulse: people have a lot of memories attached to a home

they’ve lived in for a long time.

Emotions are always tied to a home, and mixed attachment feelings could carry over into the sale of the house. Give yourself time to get used to the idea of the change and moving on. Prepare your property to make it as appealing to viewers as possible. Remember, it’s your property being sold, not your lifestyle.

• Depersonalise your home: place your personal belongings somewhere out of sight, especially family photos, ornaments and mementos.

• Goslett says that homeowners find it hard to let go of their memories they have built up over the years in their home, however, while these are beautiful recollections, they are not what the buyer is there for. Think of your property not as your unique living space, but as a product or commodity you can make attractive to as many potential buyers as possible.

Think of your property not as your unique living space, but as a product or commodity you can make attractive to as many potential buyers as possible

• Everitt says that by neutralising the space for buyers, you will enable them to imagine how their own personal belongings will look in the home, which could help to sell faster.

• Think about security: most showday viewers are trustworthy and genuine, but sometimes there are those who aren’t. It is better to be safe than sorry. So, remove from view (and your drawers) all small and valuable items. Ensure you lock your items somewhere safe and off site. Remember to give your agent remote controls to open or close gates and garage doors and manage the alarm system.

• Don’t stay at home: buyers usually feel inhibited when they are in a home where the sellers are hovering around.

• Goslett concludes, “It is best to leave the showing of the house to the agent, so that buyers can envision themselves living in the home.

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18 OCTOBER 2015

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To see more on the

DEVELOPMENTS featured here

visit yourneighbourhood.co.za/developments

Get all the latest property development news in one place yourneighbourhood.co.za/developments

Neighbourhood PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

Your property guide and show house listings in the Sunday Times.* * Selected areas only. Excludes Express edition.

90 minutes from Pretoria in the Waterberg district Only 38 ready to build freehold stands now available • • • • •

Realise your bushveld dream Exciting sustainable breeding programmes 24 hour access control with regular patrols Exclusive use of the bush camp Ownership of 1000 hectare farm and game

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From R385 000 incl Contact: Susan 073 356 8814 www.ditholoestate.co.za

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18 OCTOBER 2015

Oasis Retirement Estate Where the world truly becomes your oyster

OASIS RETIREMENT ESTATE FEATURES: • 2 4-hour frail care • Full on-site medical support • Luxury frail care with privacy and en-suite bathrooms • Wheelchair friendly, stepless living • Shuttle service to nearby shopping centres • Close proximity to hospitals • 24-hour security • Secure parking for owners and visitors • Pet friendly • Clubhouse • Communal swimming pool • Small restaurant • Privacy • Freestanding homes

UNITS PRICED FROM R1,55M!

U

mhlanga Rocks is known for its beautiful coastline, warm sea and subtropical climate which make it one of the most sought-after locations in South Africa for people to retire to.

It’s not just the moderate yearround weather, but the lifestyle that goes with it that draws people to this picturesque resort town. That is why more and more people are choosing Oasis Retirement Estate to spend their golden years.

Oasis Retirement Estate provides retirees with an active and healthy lifestyle, within a close-knit community.

The estate is fully equipped with state of the art facilities and healthcare including 24-hour frail care, 24-hour security, a shuttle service to take you to nearby shops, an onsite clubhouse, a pool house and even a small restaurant.

Neighbourhood

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18 OCTOBER 2015

CONTACT

The estate offers studio; one-, two- and three-bedroom stylish freestanding and spacious units, each equipped for all your needs.

a few kilometres from the estate. Both are extremely reputable with highly qualified medical professionals and specialists on call.

Another great draw-card of the estate is its central location, offering you all the amenities you need to lead an independent lifestyle. The estate is located just a few kilometres away from the Gateway Shopping Centre which boasts top-class shops, arguably the biggest and best centre in KwaZuluNatal, and is home to all the big retailers and brands. Just down the road, Umhlanga Village offers a selection of shops and pharmacies, as well as popular restaurants and coffee shops.

In addition, there are a number of respected general practitioners, dentists and specialists in the area operating from the Medigate Medical Centre, the Umhlanga Medical Suites and Umhlanga Village.

The Umhlanga Hospital and the Gateway Hospital are also located only

Umhlanga Rocks is also renowned for its village atmosphere which is abuzz with shops and restaurants. Some wellknown local diners include Olive and Oil; Remo’s and the ever-popular Angelo’s.

Five star hotels in the area include The Oyster Box and the Beverley Hills.

Umhlanga is a highly sought-after

19

Shane Shepard 083 440 6391 031 584 6460 shane.shepard@pamgolding.co.za pamgolding.co.za

address, and attracts a wide pool of buyer interest – from investors to retirees to executives and young families. The property market in the area has shown consistent growth over the years and continues to perform well because of its desirability and ongoing demand.

Perhaps the greatest attraction about Umhlanga Rocks is its beautiful coastline and well-maintained promenade. The beach is five minutes away from the Oasis Retirement Estate, and it offers a protected and safe swimming beach, a surfing beach and rock pools. The promenade runs from La Lucia to the Hawaan Forest and is ideal for walking and jogging. The lifestyle offering in this coastal town is difficult to beat – it really is the ideal retirement solution!

Oasis Retirement Estate provides retirees with an active and healthy lifestyle, within a close-knit community

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Entries valid from 1 August – 30 November. Ts&Cs can be found at www.yourneighbourhood.co.za/competitions

18 OCTOBER 2015

MARKETPLACE

23

Neighbourhood

MARKETPLACE

Area Guide A:

Lynnwood Manor

34, 35, 44

Waterkloof Park

46

Lynnwood Ridge

44

Waterkloof Ridge

29, 36, 46

Wierdapark

34, 43

Willow Acres

31, 32

Willow Acres Estate

27, 46

48

Willow Park Manor

29

Meyerspark

24, 35

Wonderboom South

24

Midfield Estate

43

Woodhill

27

Midrand

38

Woodhill Estate

46

Midstream Hill

41

Woodlands Estate

46

Alphen Park

44

Amandasig

24

Amberfield Glen Estate

42

M:

Annlin Ext 36

33

Menlo Park

40, 44

Arcadia

40

Menlyn

B: Baileys Muckleneuk

44

Blue Valley GolF Estate

42

Boardwalk Meader

26

Brooklands Estate

42

Monavoni Montana Park

26

Brooklyn

26

24

Z:

Monument Park

Zwartkop

Brummeria

44

44, 45

43

Mooikloof

40

Zwavelpoort

29, 46

Mooikloof Eq Estate

45

C:

Mooikloof Gardens

Centurion Golf Estate

41, 42

45

Mooikloof Ridge

Capital Park

33

29

Moreleta Park

Clearwater Estate

28

26, 27, 28, 29, 37, 40, 45

Mountain View

Clydesdale

28

33

Murrayfield

Copperleaf Estate

24

33, 45

Constantia Park

28

Clubview

41

D: Die Hoewes

42

Die Wilgers

32

Doringkloof

42

E:

N: Newlands

29

O: Olympus

45

P: Pretoria Central

40

Pretoria

48

Eco Park Estate

42

Elarduspark

36

Eldoraigne

26

Raslow

Equestria

24

28, 31, 33

Rietfontein

24

Erasmus Park

36

Rietvalleirand

27, 29, 36

Erasmuskloof

26, 40

Rooihuiskraal

43 43

R:

Rooihuiskraal North Rooihuiskraal North

F: Faerie Glen

24, 25, 26, 28, 37, 44

G: Garsfontein

28, 44

H: Hazeldean

31

Hennopspark

42

I: Irene

42

Irene Proper

41

K: Kloofsig

43

Knoppieslaagte

43

Kyalami AH

24

L: La Montagne

24, 28, 35

Laezonia

43

Lombardy Estate

25

Lynnwood

26, 28

Lynnwood Glen

28

S: Silver Lakes

25, 29, 32

Silver Lakes Golf Estate

27

Silver Woods

25

Six Fountains

25, 29

Soshanguve

40

Soutdowns

41

Soutdowns Estate

41

Stone Ridge Country Estate

27

T: Thatchfield Estate

41

The Meadows

40

The Reeds

34, 41, 43

The Wilds

40

V: Val de Grace

45, 45

Verresig Estate

45

W: Wapadrand

25, 29, 40

Waterkloof

27, 45

Waterkloof Heights

46

Agency Guide Adrienne Hersch Properties Aida Century 21 Properties Leapfrog Pam Golding Properties Rawson Properties Seeff Properties Sotheby's International Realty

24 28 - 29 25 40 - 41 48 30 - 39 42 - 46 26 - 27

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