Real|life Summer 2019 ( Issue 61 ) by REAL|life

EDITOR’S LETTER

PHOTOGRAPH Retha Ferguson

It’s here: tinsel and cheesy tunes joyfully heralding the New Year.

ON THE COVER Fine art photographer Justin Dingwall’s Gold I, edition of 10, part of the award-winning series A Seat at the Table, was shown at the Investec Cape Town Art Fair in 2019. He collaborated with model Moostapha Saidi. Dingwall will exhibit with ARTCO Gallery in the main section of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2020.

Many won’t mind seeing the back of 2019. Me for one. It’s been eventful, to say the least. A new president, a bumpy economic ride, a lacklustre property market performance and a prevailing sense of pessimism. And I haven’t even started on Brexit or Trump. Well, chin up! It’s not all doom and gloom. We won the Rugby World Cup, after all. And property investors, there are widespread opportunities for you – 2020 will be the year of the buyer. Again. Or will it? Turn to page 32 to read property developers’ insights and predictions for 2020. There are some surprises. Ready to buy, retire or invest offshore? Our bumper property articles on pages 45 and 53 cover options in Gauteng, KwaZuluNatal, the Western Cape, the Garden Route and the West Coast. Spoilt for choice you definitely are. For those skittish to commit long term, relax. We visit three Mother City hotels and show you around their newly designed and decorated spaces (page 20). Here you will want to stay at least a little while. Ah, Mauritius. It is so appealing; nearly impossible not to consider as a serious property investment location. It’s like having one foot at home and the other in a tropical island paradise. I can think of worse ways to live. On page 64 you will see what I mean. All this property and investment talk driving you to drink? Well, don’t despair. On page 12 we bring you the latest drinks trend; it’s so cool and hip and healthy that everyone’s on the wagon, literally – it’s non-alcoholic. So, this festive season we bear you many gifts, without the hangover. Happy New Year! Debbie

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor Debbie Loots | debbie.loots@thecreativegroup.info Creative director Leah de Jager Deputy and online editor Julia Freemantle Copy editor Kay-Ann van Rooyen Accounts and finances Katrien Bezuidenhout Digital management Augment Creative Media Contributors Debbie Hathway, Kim Maxwell and Tracy Ann van Blerk

PUBLISHED BY THE CREATIVE GROUP FOR TISO BLACKSTAR PROPERTY PUBLISHING reallifemagazine.co.za | 087 828 0423

ADVERTISING BOOKINGS AND SUBMISSIONS Jackie Maritz | General manager reallife@thecreativegroup.info

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ADVERTISING SALES TEAM Susan Erwee | Senior key account manager (developments) 083 556 9848 susan.erwee@thecreativegroup.info Rubi Jivhuho | Sales Executive (Lifestyle) 076 783 6996 rubi@thecreativegroup.info

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IN THIS ISSUE What’s hot

REAL trends

REAL luxury

WHAT’S HOT THIS SEASON Things to see, trends to spot, places to be, and the latest property news

OUTDOOR TRENDS Craft outdoor spaces for both practicality and personality with striking design and sensible accessories

CAPE TOWN HOTELS One new and two newly renovated gems

SUMMER 2019/20

DRINKS TRENDS A range of new beverages offers complexity and sophistication, sans intoxication

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24 TRAVEL Tailor-made trips

REAL property

Pam Golding property section

45 GAUTENG Where to buy residential and retirement property

32 2020 FORECAST Property experts pin down trends and price points likely to stick in the new year

53 ON THE COAST Property investment hotspots from the West Coast to KwaZulu-Natal

64 MAURITIUS A world-class golf village is the newest addition to Azuri, a luxury island-style residential development in Mauritius

PAM GOLDING PROPERTIES See the latest exclusive homes for sale by Pam Golding Properties

DISCLAIMER The publisher of this magazine gives no warranties, guarantees or assurances and makes no representation regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. © Times Media Property Publishing. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from the publisher. The publisher Is not responsible for any unsolicited material.

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E B R AT I N

27 YEARS

OF QUALITY SERVICE

STYLISH SOPHISTICATION. TIMELESS ELEGANCE. We do more than kitchens. At Easylife Kitchens we pride ourselves in designing, manufacturing and installing bespoke living spaces for your home. From bedrooms and bathrooms, to studies and kitchens. Speak to our expert designers at one of our 30 showrooms across the country. 2 year kitchen guarantee. Easylife Kitchens, making life easier since 1992. Proudly featuring Jo-Ann Strauss, Easylife Kitchens Brand Ambassador. 0861 327 9543 | 0861 EASYLIFE | www.easylifekitchens.co.za

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOT this season Things to see, trends to spot and places to be

TEXT Julia Freemantle PHOTOGRAPHS Adriaan Louw, Claire Gunn, Frances Marais and supplied

1 Just desserts

Luxury cafĂŠ Coco Safar, which has a new culinary offering, continues to be an innovator. Taking its cue

from global trends and the rise of Michelin-star dessert destinations, it has introduced the DBE (Dessert Bar Experience) Culinary Voyage, inspired by style capitals around the world, conceptualised by its well-travelled team and spearheaded by executive chef Carmen Rueda (formerly of El Bulli). The menu is a 10-course experience that pairs innovative mixology, marries sweet with savoury, and engages all five senses. cocosafar.com reallifemagazine.co.za

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2 Up to its name

2 Replacing Catharina’s at Steenberg, Tryn is a new tribute to the farm’s founder (Tryn was her nickname).

A modern eatery inspired by her spirit and energy, it has Kerry Kilpin of Bistro 1682 fame at the helm and features dynamic interior design by Bone Design. This venue bridges past and present and offers an elegant experience with home-like warmth – its engaging textures, glamorous jewel tones and seasonally inspired global menu make for a winning recipe. steenbergfarm.com

3 A new leaf

Le Chêne, meaning The Oak

Tree, is a new addition to the Leeu Collection’s expansive hospitality offering. Situated in the Manor House at Leeu Estates, the new Darren Badenhorst (of Le Coin Français fame) eatery pays homage to Franschhoek with local ingredients and a celebration of the valley’s heritage. Badenhorst and his team will also manage all aspects of the food and beverage offering at Leeu Estates, including in-room dining, breakfast and event catering. leeucollection.com

4 Easy breezy

The latest addition to

The Kove Collection portfolio, Surfshack is a laid-back luxury diner on the Camps Bay strip. Globally inspired, the menu features summer fare such as seared ahi tuna, lobster rolls, jalapeno-dressed salt and pepper squid, classic salads, and meat and seafood grills – unpretentious bites complemented by the rustic island-style decor. For those just looking for a scenic sundowner spot, the terrace is ideal. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Sunday. surfshackdiner.co.za

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hot This Season

5 Next level

Singita has never skimped on luxury, but its new Hillside Suite at Sasakwa Lodge dials up the X-factor

significantly. A private-use standalone suite for two, built over two levels, it allows absolute privacy and offers unbeatable Serengeti views. A private pool, kitchen, lounge and outdoor dining and seating spaces make it more of a house than a suite, and its orientation makes you feel like you could be entirely alone in the bush. singita.com

6 Home suite home

6 Harpers House in Green Point is an intimate boutique hotel with eight rooms in a recently

renovated home dating from 1892. The interior, which still has some of the original Victorian features such as the antique fireplaces and Oregon pine floors, was done by award-winning designer Tristan du Plessis. He has honoured the heritage of the building and culture of the city, while ensuring everything is effortlessly luxurious. harpershouse.co.za

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What’s Hot This Season DUAL PURPOSE Two major local arts events will coincide in 2020, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair and the inaugural Stellenbosch Triennale. Each attracting leaders and players in the art-making, curating and investing world, they promise the interchange and investigation of ideas. The inaugural Stellenbosch Triennale, brainchild of the Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust, takes place from 11 February to 30 April, and the Investec Cape Town Art Fair runs from 14 to 16 February, with multiple curators overseeing features and sections. stellenboschtriennale.com investeccapetownartfair.co.za

7 Hit the spot

Launching its new Wild Cat range just

in time for summer, homeware brand Love Milo pays homage to the African terrain in the form of terracotta, veld and sand tones and animal prints designed to blend seamlessly into an existing interior design scheme. Some pieces feature a striking cheetah motif. The collection includes bags, totes, scatter cushions, baskets, table linen and picnic blankets. lovemilo.com

8 Great Danes

Lemon’s expansion

into a wider product range sees the company welcome prestigious Danish brands &Tradition and MENU to the family, two labels that align with the Lemon commitment to quality. These brands are renowned for their spare silhouettes and understated ethos. The new ranges will complement Lemon’s in-house collections – and afford designers and home-owners the tools to create whole environments. madebylemon.co.za

what’s hot now

9 Gold standard South African commercial photographer and artist Justin Dingwall’s evocative Gold II work is part of his 2018 series A Seat at the Table, which won Winning Placement at the 2019 Budapest International Foto Awards in November. Dingwall collaborated with model Moostapha Saidi for this series, which is informed by Saidi’s experiences of living with the skin condition vitiligo. Dingwall will exhibit in the main section of the 2020 Investec Cape Town Art Fair. justindingwall.com

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Cheers to a new

TEXT Julia Freemantle PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

SIPPING TREND

REAL trends

Non-drinkers now have a choice of delicious and sophisticated alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks A growing global trend towards healthier living (and drinking) has seen a wave of abstainers choosing to eschew alcohol in favour of more wholesome options. This, in turn, has prompted brands to supply the demand in the form of a range of new beverages that offer complexity and sophistication, sans intoxication.

From alcohol-free craft beer to dealcoholised and low-alcohol wine and zero-percent “gins”, a growing contingent of beverages offers increasing variety for those who choose not to partake. “Internationally, there is a huge ‘healthification’ trend,” says Phillip Retief, CEO at Van Loveren Vineyards, in reference to its Almost Zero range. “Interestingly, this is not always a full-time approach, with many consumers taking a one-day-a-week strategy. There seems to also be a move, especially among younger people, of not drinking alcohol at all, or going ‘dry’ for extended periods.” Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards sees the younger health-conscious consumer as its primary target, “people who experiment with their beverage choices and those who follow a vegan lifestyle,” says winemaker Eugene van Zyl of the Natura range, which contains less than 0.5% alcohol (and about a tenth of the calories that normal wine does). “The product is also great for drinking during daytime events such as work functions and for designated drivers.” Theresa Mouton from Vergin agrees that there has been a major change in behaviour when it comes to health considerations, and that this attitude shift is driving the market. “Apart from a specific awareness around the negative effects of alcohol, consumers are considering the link between diet and health,” she says. “Being mindful of what you eat and drink is the ‘new cool’.” The UK brand Seedlip is one of the pioneers of nonalcoholic distilled drinks. “There are four key cultural forces at work that are impacting why we’re drinking less,” says Seedlip founder Ben Branson. “One, we’re healthier and have unprecedented access to information about what we should and shouldn’t be eating, drinking or doing. Two, we’re public – our lives are well documented on social media and the curation of how we appear to the world has greater importance than before. Three, we’re demanding – we expect variety, demand quality, and aren’t afraid to speak up for it. Four, we’re busy – life is a balancing act and we have less time to be hung-over.” “There was a massive demand for non-alcoholic drinks that taste and look like adult beverages,” says Talita Calitz, marketing manager of the virgin G&T brand The Duchess. “When choosing not to drink, discerning consumers simply aren’t satisfied with sparkling water or sugary soft drinks. And rightfully so.” And is it just a fad? The brands believe it’s here to stay. “Global sales stats show that since 2016 there has been a steady decline in alcohol sales, whereas the non-alcoholic sector has increasingly taken over as the fastest-growing beverage trend,” says Mouton. “So yes, it’s a movement.”

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REAL trends

WHAT STARTED THE JOURNEY? Johannes le Roux: I came up with the idea on a trip to Amsterdam when I realised that there was a huge demand for non-alcoholic drinks that taste and look like adult beverages. In addition to the gin craze, I noticed that people are more health-conscious, which made me ask myself if I could create a beverage that speaks to both these challenges and opportunities. Inus Smuts: Johannes called me to collaborate with him and his aunt, who is a part-time botanist, and together we developed The Duchess. We wanted to mimic the classic taste of a craft gin and tonic, and from there we created different variations.

WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED ALONG THE WAY?

We chatted to the founders of The Duchess about their brand story

Inus: In the beginning, our biggest challenge wasn’t finding sober-curious consumers, but rather the fact that people didn’t quite understand the concept. We often got the question, “What is the point?” This required quite a bit of consumer education. Our challenge now is to convey this message to our international audiences while keeping our core brand values intact.

DO YOU THINK THERE HAS BEEN A PERMANENT SHIFT IN THE WAY PEOPLE CONSUME ALCOHOL, AND IF SO, WHY? Inus: Most certainly. The digital age gives us a wealth of information in terms of health, and the benefits of limiting your alcohol intake are undeniable. This doesn’t mean people have stopped drinking altogether. They simply choose to drink less, but drink better. I think the social stigma of not drinking has been one of the biggest challenges for people. Fortunately, new options like The Duchess offer an elegant solution.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOUR BRAND? Inus: I think the next few years are going to be incredibly exciting for The Duchess. The nonalcoholic sector is growing at a rapid pace and we have just partnered up with the global innovations arm of AB Inbev, ZX Ventures, which will allow us to scale our drinks on an international level. We also have some very exciting new products in the pipeline and we will continue to offer mindful individuals innovative and exciting non-alcoholic drinks that fit their lifestyle. drinktheduchess.com

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REAL luxury

People simply choose

to drink less, butÂ drink better

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REAL trends

Craft your outdoor spaces for both practicality and personality with striking design and sensible accessories

TEXT Julia Freemantle PHOTOGRAPHS Henrique Wilding and supplied

interests OUTSIDE

SUMMER 2018

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REAL trends 2

STATEMENT STYLE

2 Outdoor furniture needn’t be synonymous with hard surfaces and obviously durable fabrics. Consider comfort when choosing furniture – it is an important factor in enjoying your space. Tribù Tosca dining armchairs, which are available at Marlanteak, offer visual and sensory appeal via a welcoming cushioned design. Designer Monica Amani has combined weather-resistant material with an innovative design, a seating shell with extra-wide braiding and cushions, to offer the best of both in outdoor design. marlanteak.com

Think on another level when planning your outdoor layout. By playing with different heights, you can create functional zones – a higher bar table is suitable for cocktail hour and takes up less space than the traditional lounge seating (ideal for compact urban homes). This oasis of a space by La Grange Interiors uses materials and colour consistently to allow it to blend into the garden. lagrangeinteriors.co.za

The Polka outdoor café table and Hula lounge chairs by Haldane Martin call to mind the spare silhouette of the iconic Harry Bertoia chair, albeit even more stripped down. The streamlined aesthetic is cut out for contemporary spaces, and the low-slung proportions are perfect for relaxed casual dining – think tapas and sundowners. haldanemartin.co.za

Inject personality into your outdoor spaces through furniture in a spectrum of punchy colours and striking silhouettes. Haldane Martin’s Papa Sun outdoor sofa collection is a reinterpretation of the round rattan Papasan chair, which has its roots in Southeast Asia and was popularised in Western culture in the post-war 1950s. The chair and sofa are supremely pleasant to relax in – the scooped design and generous cushions envelop and enfold. Pair them with a mix of occasional tables in contrasting hues for maximum impact. haldanemartin.co.za

Traditionally associated with the indoors, a chaise longue is an elegant furniture solution for an outdoor scene – elevating the aesthetic from everyday perfunctory style to something a little more special. This piece from Something Desired’s 2019 Sorbet Collection is simple yet sophisticated; it will add an X-factor to a veranda and offer versatility by catering to both lounging and sitting. something-desired.com

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REAL trends IN-BETWEEN SPACES

Fabrics are the easiest way to introduce an indoor element outside, thereby softening it and making it more liveable. Be inspired by this beautiful built-in corner featuring Élitis fabrics from St Leger & Viney. The benches are a permanent fixture, but you can keep the cushions loose to take them in when it rains. Likewise, accessorise with an array of potted plants that you can move and mix as your mood dictates. stleger.co.za

Landscaping plays a major role in creating an easy flow from your living spaces to your garden. This masterfully executed patio by SAOTA – architects Stefan Antoni, Philip Olmesdahl, Greg Truen, Phillippe Fouché and Mark Bullivant – allows for a gradual transition between inside and outside thanks to the clever way the plants and hard surfaces have been intermixed. saota.com

Dress an outdoor seating area with natural-toned and themed fabrics, and you have a nook that blends into the natural surroundings and creates a feeling of serenity. Textiles from Hertex’s Spring Break collection occupy the perfect middle ground between interior comfort and outdoor freshness. Additionally, they’re stain-, water- and sun-resistant, making them a pleasure to use and behold. hertex.co.za

Create a seating nook that blends into the natural surroundings

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REAL trends

Lamps that emit a gentle glow add ambiance

ATMOSPHERIC ACCESSORIES

1 Use lamps suspended from trees and scattered at your feet to create a night-time fairyland in the garden. These Madame Cachet lights by Tribù, available through Marlanteak, feature artisanal woven casings made with weatherproof cord, resulting in a gentle glow rather than a harsh light – perfect for achieving a cosy ambience. marlanteak.com

2 The Cotton Company sells a wide range

of throws and towels – stylish and versatile pieces that you can drape over a lounger or spread out picnic-style on the grass. Available in a rainbow of colourways, they’re not only aesthetically pleasing but also very practical. thecottoncompany.co.za

If a slick urban aesthetic matches your decor style, these portable Light Up lanterns from Eva Solo will appeal to you. They are just what you need for sundowners on the stoep. evasolo.com

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Hot

TEXT Debbie Loots and Kim Maxwell PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

HOTELS IN THE MOTHER CITY

REAL travel

FRESH TWIST The exterior of Steenberg Hotel & Spa is decidedly 17thcentury Cape Dutch, save for a few colourful Edoardo Villa sculptures dotting the gardens. In contrast, the interior has a glamorous yet understated contemporary feel. This is thanks to Catherine Schulze, the hotelier at Steenberg for the past 12 years who, apart from all her other duties, took on the interior redesign of the hotel and spa, which reopened in September after renovations. The rooms are thoughtfully composed, from the choice of chandeliers – decorative antique or supermodern – to the hand-picked furniture pieces and fine colour coordination. The bathrooms were also completely redesigned and the patios extended. One of the major structural changes was converting some of the rooms into two- and three-bedroom family suites, two of which have kitchen facilities.

Three luxury hotels recently opened their doors in Cape Town: two established favourites that have been renovated and a new hotel in the CBD. The REAL|life team went out on a scout to Steenberg Hotel & Spa, Tintswalo Atlantic and Labotessa Hotel “There is a huge demand for family travel,” says Catherine, “so we rethought our room configurations and suites, and refined our shared and private spaces to ensure the comfort of families.” Steenberg Spa also underwent rejuvenation. An exciting addition is an outdoor treatment area in a scented garden under an old oak tree. The restaurant Catharina’s has not been forgotten. Renamed Tryn, the nickname of the farm’s maverick founder Catharina Ras, it features original art and bold decor. In the kitchen, executive chef Kerry Kilpin still creates magic with combinations of Asian and Middle Eastern flavours and local ingredients like rooibos and spekboom. Past the 18-hole golf course, a gravel road takes you through the vineyards to the wine cellar and popular Bistro Sixteen82 for a wine tasting and tapas. From the veranda, basking in the last rays of the setting sun, you catch a glimpse of an Edoardo Villa sculpture in the indigenous garden of the Norval Foundation gallery next door – a reminder there’s another treat in store for you. steenbergfarm.com/hotel

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REAL travel BETWEEN THE MOUNTAIN AND THE SEA It’s known as a little secret, the five-star Tintswalo Atlantic boutique hotel in Hout Bay. The entrance is close to the stone toll booth on Chapman’s Peak Drive, and a steep descent down a narrow road brings you to the front door, which is shaded by an old milkwood tree. Looking around, it feels as if you have arrived in paradise. The hotel’s row of modest timber structures seems to have risen from the foot of the mountain, and it’s so close to the Atlantic Ocean that small waves lap at your feet when you step onto the stones edging the sea. The lounge areas in the main building are warm and welcoming. Separated from the bar area by a glamorous chandelier and stretching to the deck with its spectacular vista across the bay, the lounges feature antiques, plush shades of turquoise and a seashell motif. It is difficult to imagine that a few months ago this tranquil family-owned lodge was ravaged by a fire; it destroyed the main part of the hotel and severely damaged one of the guest suites. This set the owners off on an extensive renovation and rebuilding exercise. The good news is that the hotel reopened for business recently and has a beautiful new lease of life, in more ways than one. “We chose to turn tragedy into opportunity, says Tintswalo CEO Lisa Goosen. “The fire gave us the chance to reflect while we rebuilt the hotel, and we decided to finetune our product offering.” Now, the hotel offers resident guests – a maximum of 24 people accommodated in 10 sea-facing suites and a two-bedroom villa – more accessible room rates; and invites non-resident guests to a weekly Tintswalo Atlantic Where Else in the World Wednesday Lunch. It’s advisable to book, as space is limited to this very special seafood lunch with a wine list to match. Later, as you enjoy sundowners and canapés on the deck, listening to the sound of small waves lapping against the rocks below, that initial feeling of being in paradise is reinforced. tintswalo.com/atlantic

CEO Lisa Goosen – who did the interior design together with Gaye Corbett, her mother and Tintswalo’s co-founder – tells us more IS THE SPECIFIC DECOR A PERSONAL CHOICE? Definitely! I have always loved organic shapes and natural objects such as shells, wood and pebbles. And then to combine it with a touch of glamour, including luxurious fabrics, crystal chandeliers, mirrors and metals. It’s our signature style.

HOW DOES THE INTERIOR DESIGN FIT WITH YOUR BUSINESS ETHOS? Specific hand-made objects evoke a sense of home and welcome, and of taking time and care. As a family business, these precious qualities align perfectly with the Tintswalo brand. We’re not a mainstream product, but love curating tailor-made personal experiences.

REAL travel HERITAGE MEETS LUXURY For many travellers, the appeal of a coastal destination such as Cape Town goes beyond beaches and sea views. It is about unpacking the cultural charisma of a place to find its rhythm. For that, inner-city hotels offer convenience, good dining options, the freedom to wander, and first-hand glimpses of those going about their daily routines, viewed from a comfortable room. Spectator privileges, if you like. Labotessa’s six luxury suites and double-volume penthouse overlook Church Square in the historical centre of the city. The building, a narrow paleblue structure, would not look out of place on an Amsterdam street. The penthouse – called the Governor’s Suite, in reference to Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape Colony – is a modern 300 m2 space with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open-plan kitchen and entertainment area, and a balcony with a plunge pool. The boutique hotel’s South African-born owners, Jan Fourie and Johan du Plessis, were childhood friends and both worked overseas before this project took off. Du Plessis, whose international hotel career was mostly with the Andaz by Hyatt

hotel brand, moved to Cape Town to oversee Labotessa’s design and interiors, and has managed the hotel since it opened in August. Restoring a building that dates to the 1700s was no easy feat. Labotessa’s heritage status meant endless planning and approvals, and an insistence on using sanctioned engineers and architects. The project took seven years to complete. Two exterior changes were made: Two floors were added for the penthouse, and two windows on the ground level were converted into doors. Labotessa is located in a part of the CBD that doesn’t yet have foot traffic at all hours, but there are plans for more lifestyle outlets in the neighbourhood. Fine-dining restaurant FYN and Kleinsky’s Deli are currently neighbours. Close attention to detail is evident in Labotessa’s spacious suites, right down to the custom shade of blue Du Plessis used on the walls, the rugs on the French oak floors, and contrasting furniture colour accents such as burnt-orange velvet couches. Three contemporary Cape Town artists – Emma Aspeling, Pierre Fouché and Rina van Zyl – were commissioned to add vibrancy to the interiors. On the ground floor of Labotessa, a new city branch of popular local café Starlings serves breakfast (included in the room rate for hotel guests) and lunch from an organic and ethically inspired menu. labotessa.com

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Tailor-made

TRAVEL

REAL luxury

With more travel options at our disposal than ever before, it’s the personal touches that make a trip memorable TEXT Julia Freemantle PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

Travel today is so much more than ticking items off a of must-do-and-see list. For the well-travelled and discerning globetrotter, a trip needs to offer tailored and bespoke experiences, from spectacular out-of-the-way locations to remarkable service. Travellers increasingly want a curated offering that provides experiences crafted specifically for them. They also want the peace of mind that comes with knowing a reputable provider has done the background checks to ensure a location or service lives up to its promises.

ONE-OF-A-KIND PLACES Local travel venture Perfect Hideaways has carved a niche for itself as a curator of special holiday rentals across Southern Africa, selected for their design cachet, idyllic locations or interesting backstories. Owners Helen and David Untiedt, who started Perfect Hideaways 11 years ago, have built the business on reliability and quality. “We see more and more that travellers are seeking remote places, wanting to escape crowds and traffic,” says Helen of the type of location that’s most in demand. Exclusive-use is also paramount, and the experience is as important as the location. “Our guests love the option of cooking together or having private chefs; some even request that our team organise adventure trips on mountain bikes or private surf lessons.” The destinations are thoroughly vetted to ensure they meet their standards. “All of us try to stay at least two nights at a location to get the full experience,” she says.

REAL luxury BESPOKE ITINERARIES Rhino Africa too, is founded on the notion of curation and tailored travel, crafting itineraries for its clients that deliver experiences according to their needs – golf, safari, family, honeymoon… “Travellers do not want an off-the-shelf itinerary; they want something bespoke and crafted for their individual needs and requirements,” says Ian Martin, creative director at Rhino Africa. “Travellers are also interested in ‘bucketlist’ experiences like climbing Kilimanjaro, watching the great migration, seeing gorillas in the wild and exploring the Okavango Delta. Our clients have very specific experiences they want to tick off their list.”

CHARTERED FLIGHTS But sometimes fast and direct is what the discerning traveller wants. And for this there is private air travel. Chartered flights have become much more accessible in recent years. UK-based Victor is an on-demand private global jet service with access to more than 7 000 aircraft

and 40 000 destinations. The experience is tailored down to the last detail. Additionally, the high-tech transparent model of the business has seen it praised as a disruptor. Locally, Federal Airlines caters to high-end international travellers. The business has seen growth across the board in chartered flights – even in the family travel and multi generational segment. When asked why, Nik Lloyd-Roberts, the airline’s commercial manager, had this to say: “Clients are looking for more bespoke, interesting and original itineraries. Trouble is, air access throughout Africa is limited and expensive, especially for large families. Chartering an aircraft allows guests to essentially create their own air access and travel on their own time and terms.”

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REAL luxury

The focus is on old-world romance and the celebration ofÂ slow

SUMMER 2019/20

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REAL design TRAIN JOURNEYS The modern traveller doesn’t only want quality once they reach their destination. For many, the journey is equally important – like a trip by train winding through the Portuguese landscape while enjoying meals created by a top chef and stopping to taste wines along the way. The Presidential Train is the brainchild of entrepreneur Gonçalo Castel-Branco, who came up with the business model after falling in love with a retired locomotive at Portugal’s National Railway Museum. Local industry stalwart Rovos Rail, too, has built its success on the pleasure and romance of train travel. The eight journeys it offers – some of which are as long as 15 days – are all about taking in the scenery and exploring the countryside; there’s no racing to reach a destination. Without Wi-Fi or television on board, the focus is on old-world romance and the celebration of slow. So, whether you want to get there fast or take your time, the world really is your oyster when it comes to travel in the 21st century.

fedair.com flyvictor.com perfecthideaways.co.za rhinoafrica.com rovos.com thepresidentialtrain.com

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SPRING 2018

2020 VISION Craft Homes is expanding its residential offering, with various developments in the pipeline Having recently sold out an entire development of 294 apartments at Waterfall Ridge and with several projects in progress, Craft Homes is poised to end the year on a high note, taking the momentum into 2020. This kind of success – unusual in the current market – can be attributed to the company’s commitment to quality and ability to identify the best development opportunities in line with homebuyers’ needs. In the face of 2019’s property woes, Craft Homes continued to roll out ongoing projects and to plan several new launches for the first quarter of 2020. Established developments such as Stonefields in Broadacres, the new Melrose View in Melrose North and Waterfall Ridge in Midrand have enjoyed great traction in the Johannesburg market. With a stronghold in the Hazeldean Node in Pretoria East, Craft Homes is also steadily racking up sales at The Retreat, which caters for an active retirement lifestyle, and the generously sized stands at The Ridge are selling well. Going beyond Gauteng, the Craft Homes portfolio extends to the banks of the Vaal River with the golf and river estate Heron Banks. Future projects include various developments in Johannesburg, including the niche Highbridge in Bryanston, and The Woods in Kyalami with its variety of duplexes. Due to be launched in early 2020 is Waterberry in Broadacres, which is based on Craft Homes’ popular Stonefields concept of three- and fourbedroom family homes fitted with high-end finishes and Smeg appliances. Whether it’s a family home, a retirement estate or an apartment in a bustling node, Craft Homes’ developments continue to attract a broad spectrum of South African buyers despite tough economic conditions. Craft Homes’ approach to residential development is simple, says head of marketing Jessica Cabanita: “From concept to final fittings, we always put ourselves in our clients’ shoes. The care that goes into every home makes the difference. We don’t just build homes; we craft them for life.”

CONTACT: 08600 CRAFT (27238) | crafthomes.co.za @crafthomesproperties | craft_homes_sa

FROM THE TOP These apartments in Waterfall Ridge all have two bedrooms and two bathrooms; the interior of a Waterfall Ridge apartment; The Woods in Kyalami comprises three- and four-bedroom duplexes.

REAL property

0 2 PROPERTY TREND FORECAST

TEXT Kim Maxwell PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

We asked property experts to pin down the residential trends and price points likely to stick in the new year

The residential market has experienced a number of challenges during 2019, but a leaner economy and flattening out of the market has also been a leveller for bargainhunters, longterm investors and those with entrepreneurial nerve for risk. “Buyers are more educated than ever and really are spoilt for choice, so it’s critical for sellers to price their properties correctly, especially in the upper-income and luxury segments,” says Marcél du Toit, CEO at bond originator Bondspark.

HOME TYPE AND

STUDENT AND HOTEL-

PRECINCT TRENDS

SERVICE RESIDENTIAL

Which are the home type trends with staying power? Pam Golding Property Group chief executive Andrew Golding says the home type with staying power is sectional title accommodation in mixed-use developments in prime locations that facilitate a secure lockup-and-go lifestyle. He names Menlyn Maine in Pretoria as an example, as well as the Cape Town CBD, which has been a key urban precinct for some time. In lifestyle estates, he says, there will be a focus on creating a greater mix of price bands. Golding also singles out student accommodation, where demand significantly

Student towns are big business, as a lack of university residences creates ongoing demand for apartments close to campus, says Louise Varga, Pam Golding Properties area manager for Stellenbosch. A new investment opportunity in the Boland town is The Niche, 51 units with bachelor to threebedroom options, listed from R1,5 million. Varga is also marketing Bosmans Club, a develop ment comprising 46 units in a fusion of wood, steel, glass and brick, starting at R1,4 million. “Bosmans Club appeals to young professionals and post-graduates who want to experience the Stellenbosch vibe with out living in the centre

outstrips supply; retire ment developments,

OPPOSITE Views from the living area of an apartment in Park Central, Rosebank, by Pam Golding Properties

Rosebank “is experiencing

of town,” she says. Signatura MD David Cohen says offering residents “a mix of hotel and residential” is an international trend whole heartedly embraced at The Onyx on Cape Town’s Foreshore. Service offerings include house keeping, room service and optional participation in a hotel-managed rental pool. “It adds that extra factor to a luxury building, which owners who have travelled the world have come to expect,” says Cohen. The luxury apartments are priced from R1,7 million for a studio to R20,5 million for a three-bedroom duplex penthouse.

particularly those in secure lifestyle estates; and affordable homes in towns traditionally considered retirement or holiday destinations. “There are areas such as Somerset West and Simonstown where new developments ensure that more medical and educational amenities are available in what are traditionally retirement or holiday destinations,” says Golding. In Johannesburg, something of a revival”, and Pretoria boasts projects such as the new R6 billion Castle Gate Precinct.

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SUMMER 2019/20

STEVE BROOKES

CEO OF BALWIN PROPERTIES WHAT STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019?

FORECAST

South Africa is going through a tough economic cycle and we must stand together and support our president, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, in creating a great future.

HOW ARE YOUR CURRENT DEVELOP MENTS DIFFERENT? We have four awardPRICING PATTERNS How is the residential market looking in broader terms? Buyisile Maseko, growth head of the Gold Segment at FNB Home Finance, says Deeds Office home transaction data for Q2 2019 shows that growth in house prices either declined or slowed across all price segments. The exception was the low-income band (where an average purchase price is R395 900), where house sale prices grew by a 17.6% average year-on-year. Luxury value bands (R2.3 million average purchase price) declined by a 0.23% average year-on-year. “We anticipate this residential price point trend will continue into early 2020, with

SUMMER 2019/20

higher participation in the lower end of the market,” says Maseko. BetterBond’s latest statistics show that 44% of bonds granted in the past year (to end September) fell into the R500 000 to R1 million category. Another 19% of bonds granted were in the R1 million to R1.5 million bracket.

ABOVE Signatura’s The Onyx in Heerengracht on the Cape Town Foreshore comprises 102 apartment-style hotel rooms, including studios, deluxe studios, one-bedroom apartments, deluxe onebedroom apartments and two-bedroom apartments.

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winning architects working on our designs, and 95% of our products are locally sourced and manufactured. We are totally invested in and committed to eco-friendly designs and fittings, which have won us numerous awards. Balwin is very clear on delivering the best to our clients.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR 2020? We are planning a strong investment in our green brand, which is in a lower-entry bracket. We want to refocus this brand from a rental to a selling business, rolling out about 6 000 apartments. I believe it’s going to be a big winner. We are also excited about introducing a fantastic new development in Waterfall in March called Munyaka. It’s priced right and has the best crystal lagoon in the world, according to our esteemed architects working on the project. I am told we are going to change the landscape of property in Johannesburg with this new development. balwin.co.za

REAL property

ANTON CROUSE

NICHOLAS STOPFORTH

MANAGING DIRECTOR, CENTRAL DEVELOPMENTS PROPERTY GROUP

MANAGING DIRECTOR, AMDEC CONSTRUCTION DEVELOPMENTS

WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019? The current economic

WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019? Mixed-use developments

limate resulted in weak demand in the prop c erty market. This put pressure on the industry, leading to a buyer’s market.

have continued to shape our industry. In terms of residential property, we’ve seen moves towards lifestyle estates and compact apartment living.

HOW ARE YOUR CURRENT DEVELOP MENTS UNIQUE? All our retirement develop

HOW ARE AMDEC’S DEVELOPMENTS DIFFERENT? The Amdec Group continues

ments are EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiency) certified by the Green Building Council of South Africa. We are also planning to put our conventional developments – already complying with green requirements – through the EDGE programme. Our retirement estates are unique because they are fully independent communities, offer ing every convenience a resident might need inside the estate from day one, including medi cal services, frail care, heated indoor swimming pools, hair and beauty salons, and restaurants.

its involvement in projects once construction is complete. We retain majority ownership and full management control of our large-scale developments because it provides end-to-end control over implementing sustainable, ecofriendly measures. Our operations and building management teams consist of exceptional individuals whose depth of knowledge and experience can be found in few other places in the industry. Designing, building and operating developments and precincts with sustainability top of mind is non-negotiable.

WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING FOR 2020?

WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN THE PIPELINE?

We’ll launch Village 2 of Celebration Retirement Estate and continue with Waterkloof Marina Retirement Estate’s first and second phases.

We will soon be breaking ground on our most ambitious Cape-based project to date – Harbour Arch on the eastern edge of the Cape Town CBD. It will be a R14 billion project that will bring as many as 13 000 construction jobs to the city, so it will be ground-breaking on many levels.

YOUR PROPERTY TRENDS FORECAST FOR 2020? As the economy improves, the demand will increase and prices will rise. With rental stock being sought-after, we foresee an improvement in retirement rentals, and townhouse developments with excellent buyto-let options. In the retirement industry, due to the limited supply of our unique servicerich retirement developments in Gauteng, we foresee good capital growth for projects like Celebration and Waterkloof Marina. centraldevelopments.co.za

YOUR PROPERTY TRENDS FORECAST FOR 2020? We anticipate the continued rise of large-scale mixed-use developments. We also foresee that residential property purchases will keep moving in the direction of more compact apartment living. amdec.co.za

FORECAST

MANAGING DIRECTOR, CRAFT HOMES

FIRST-TIME BUYER MOMENTUM BetterBond found that homes costing less than R1 million tend to be dominated by firsttime buyers. CEO Carl Coetzee says first-time buyers now account for more than 50% of BetterBond’s applications. “They are receiving an increasing percentage of home loan grants (up 17,5% in the past year), so we expect sustained demand in this category, especially now that banks have reintroduced products that enable buyers to borrow up to 105% of the home price, to cover transfer and transaction costs.” Affordable properties in the R1.3 million to R1.6 million price range sell well and are always in demand, says Ilma Brink, Pam Golding Properties Pretoria Regional development sales manager. Yet location remains key in new developments such as The Regency, the first luxury apartments in

SUMMER 2019/20

REINIER VAN LOGGERENBERG

Pretoria East, close to Menlyn Maine. Pam Golding Properties area specialist Kayte Denham says Rosebank is set to almost double the number of sectional title properties when its new developments come to market. Rosebank was one of four urban locations highlighted for its livework-play lifestyle and numerous sectional title developments in Pam Golding Properties’ recent year-on-year comparison (until August 2019), using Lightstone statistics. Senior research analyst Sandra Gordon says these findings also singled out Umhlanga Rocks and Umhlanga New Town Centre in KwaZuluNatal for achieving the strongest sales in recent years. In Umhlanga Rocks, the bulk of sales were above R3 million.

ABOVE This Monaghan Farm home in Gauteng is selling for R5,95 million through Pam Golding Properties.

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WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT IN 2019? There’s been consistent growth in the first-time homebuyers’ market this year. And its partly driven by the leniency of the banks’ support of first-time buyers. It’s been a pillar for our business to keep us in that market bracket. Also, people got over the immigration phobia and are investing in properties that suit their lifestyles. I think this is the reason our duplex-type developments are doing so well.

HOW ARE CRAFT HOMES’ DEVELOPMENTS DIFFERENT? What sets us apart from other developers is the amount of time we spend on refining the details of our offering. We cater for specific needs and requirements. The market is saturated with products that look and feel similar. Our offering is unique and has real potential to growth in value. We are also proud of our two property awards – for our lifestyle estate in Heron Banks on the Vaal River, and Sandton Gate.

ANY NEW DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2020? We are sticking with the winning pillars of our business: putting enough units on the market in the affordable space – in Kyalami and Glen Erasmia – as well as a boutique development in Bryanston.

YOUR PROPERTY TRENDS FORECAST FOR 2020? I don’t expect any major changes in the next year, except perhaps consistent growth, and fewer up and downs. So I’m looking forward to a more stable, more consistent property space in 2020. crafthomes.co.za

REAL REALproperty luxury

COLIN ANDERSON

SHAUN ROOS

COO, RABIE PROPERTY GROUP

MANAGING DIRECTOR, ZOTOS CONSTRUCTION

WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT IN 2019? We had limited new developments in 2019 and experienced a slow uptake of our residential properties released in 2018. The recent successful launch of Bridgewater One in Century City has reinforced our perception that the market conditions are changing, with much more movement anticipated for the foreseeable future.

WHAT MAKES RABIE’S RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS DIFFERENT? Our most recent residential development in Century City, Axis, was on the shortlist of the SAPOA Awards for Innovative Excellence in the 2019 Residential category. We also won the SAPOA Property Development Award in 2017 in the Mixed-Use Development category for Century City Square.

ANY NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN 2020? We recently launched a mixed-use development in Century City, Bridgewater One, comprising 122 apartments, an 80-bed luxury hotel, offices, corporate offices and a retail component – 70% of the apartments sold within the first week. Our Oasis Life retirement brand is gaining momentum. We have furnished showhouses in Burgundy Estate and Clara Anna Fontein in Durbanville as part of phase one construction. Oasis Life Century City was launched in November, with construction commencing in 2020. YOUR PROPERTY TRENDS FORECAST FOR 2020? Based on the great success of our Century City developments, we remain positive that the extraordinary lifestyle the precinct offers is second to none. People want value in terms of the price, but they also want an environment that offers a great lifestyle.

WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019? There has been a gradual shift towards more value-for-money housing rather than grandeur and opulence. Budgets are tight and buyers want to maximise every square metre for every rand. With the influx of middle- to upper-class earners, the demand has increased for more secure developments with quality small homes.

HOW ARE YOUR DEVELOPMENTS DIFFERENT? Our philosophy has alwayd been to offer something different, like our latest development in Bryanston East, Skywood. It is a refinement of modern townhouse living and a statement of uniqueness. Features include double-glazed imported European aluminium windows and doors, a fitted high-end kitchen, Quartz carpets and glass balustrades. Electricity and water back-ups and insulation make these homes really efficient.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN THE PIPELINE? We have a number of developments planned for Bryanston: new designs combined with some old architectural styles.

YOUR PROPERTY FORECAST FOR 2020? The property market will continue to improve in the first quarter of 2020. This comes from the slight improvement in the last quarter of 2019. There is still a demand for housing in South Africa, which means there are buyers out there. As long as we offer the right product in the right place and at the right price, we should see a steady growth in the property market in 2020. zotos.co.za

rabie.co.za reallifemagazine.co.za

OCTOBER 2018

FORECAST

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER, DEVMARK PROPERTY GROUP

LUXURY STILL HOLDING “We’re finding that it takes two to three times longer to sell a property in the upper end of the residential market as opposed to the lower end,” says Maseko. Yet the luxury market seems to be holding. “The latest BetterBond statistics show that 7.5% of all bonds granted in the past 12 months (to end September) fell into the R2 million to R3 million price category, compared with 8% in the previous 12 months,” says Coetzee. “And while only 4% of bonds fell into the R3 million-plus price category, this was unchanged from the previous 12 months. There was no major shift at the top end of the market for the past two years.” Pam Golding Helderberg agent Edelweiss Hankey says demand for luxury properties in Somerset West remains robust, despite a slowdown in many areas at the top end. Property data showed that more than a quarter

SUMMER 2019/20

BRUWER DE JAGER

of 1 553 homes sold in Somerset West between August 2018 and July 2019 were estate homes. These estates are near popular schools. “Demand for property is seen across all market segments, with investor interest from a broad demographic,” says Gordon. The average price of 130 repeat sales in Somerset West over the past 12 months was R5.5 million. “We see sellers are opting to hold on to their properties amid unfavourable selling conditions, and increased bargain hunting in the higher-priced segments,” says Maseko. “This has somewhat narrowed the supply-demand gap in those segments, and we expect that to continue into 2020.”

ABOVE Park Central in Rosebank, which is close to business hubs, offers lock-up-and-go apartments and amenities such as a rooftop pool and gym. One-bedroom units starting at R1.99 million.

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WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019? There are a few: retirement villages on freehold/sectional title schemes are selling at acceptable rates in the Western Cape; developers that went into the market on the life rights scheme are struggling; the resale market above R3 million is under pressure; and George, Langebaan and the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast are attracting large investment inflow.

WHAT SETS YOUR CURRENT DEVELOP MENTS APART? Our price point sets us apart from most exclusive developments; our design scope is in line with sustainability products; we care about our natural ecosystems, so we’re selective in terms of location; we understand our target market; and you will find news of our latest develoments across our online platforms.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN THE PIPELINE? We have projects planned in both our lifestyle and retirement categories, such as Langebaan Manor in Langebaan, Nooitgedacht Manor in White River, Fonteine Manor in Malmesbury and The Governors Club in A lberton.

YOUR VIEW ON PROPERTY DEVELOP MENT TRENDS IN 2020? Location will be key and price will play a major role. In terms of retirement, I think freehold villages will out perform life rights schemes. Lastly, developers within the R1.5million – R2.8 million price range will sell at an acceptable rate. devmark.co.za

REAL property

DAVID SEDGWICK

BYRON KYRIAKIDES

MANAGING DIRECTOR, HORIZON CAPITAL RESIDENTIAL

CO-FOUNDER OF ICONYC APARTMENTS IN BENONI

WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019? It has been a challeng-

WHAT PROPERTY TRENDS STOOD OUT FOR YOU IN 2019? Increasingly, young fami-

ing year fuelled by low economic growth and political uncertainty. We also saw a lot of new letting supply, putting downward pressure on the market. Investors took stock and curbed their buying frenzy. However, there were still sales of unique products.

lies are moving from free-standing homes to complexes or estates that offer security and convenience. Many are also downscaling due to the economic climate, and we’ve noticed a large number of young women entering the property market.

HOW ARE YOUR CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS SPECIAL? We have stuck to smaller

WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THE ICONYC?

boutique blocks of between 10 and 20 apartments that appeal to owner-occupiers, are easier to manage, and offer less rental and sales competition.

We believe we have an award-winning concept, mainly because we follow a simple ethos based on excellence and adhering to international standards. We implement cutting-edge innovations, including eco-friendly fittings, running tracks and a 24-hour concierge service.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE IN THE PIPELINE? We have used the muted past year-and-a-half to acquire an exciting pipeline of developments, which will be launched in 2020/2021. These developments will mostly follow on from our existing strategy: based around the Cape Town City Centre, boutique offering and meticulously designed, and with great views.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PLANS FOR A NEW DEVELOPMENT? We’ve ear-marked a beau-

YOUR PROPERTY TRENDS FORECAST FOR 2020? We are expecting a slightly

that offer everything within walking distance of your home will continue to trend into the new year and the years to come. This is what we continuously strive to achieve for our clients: creating a beautiful and safe home with cutting-edge amenities in a setting with spectacular views.

improved activity level compared with 2019, but no 2017-fizz. horizoncapital.co.za

tiful piece of land for our next development. Can’t give too much away but, once again, it will be near the water’s edge.

WHAT ARE THE PROPERTY TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2020? Lifestyle estates

theiconyc.co.za

REAL property

FORECAST

LOOSENING RESTRICTIONS MDW INC attorney and conveyancer Meyer de Waal says a strong 2020 trend is buyers being financially smart about their home purchases. “Financial institutions are loosening their tight grip on home loan approvals and com peting to gain market share with campaigns. Some banks are willing to accommodate future rental income to boost affordability for investor buyers. Others are willing to grant home loans of up to 105% of the purchase price, and up to 110% in particular circumstances.” De Waal recommends renegotiating your home loan interest rate. “The sooner you

SUMMER 2019/20

renegotiate, the more you stand to save,” he says. “A home owner can save thousands of rands, even in the advanced stages of the home loan repayment term, if a lower rate is negotiated.” Maseko agrees that approval rates, rate con cessions to buyers and loan-to-value criteria (bank deposit require ments) will remain in favour of buyers as banks compete for business. “The ability to access mortgage bonds will remain favourable moving into 2020, as major retail banks look to grow their mortgage books in a lowvolume market.”

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY TRENDS TO WATCH IN 2020 • Mixed-use sectional title in prime locations • Lifestyle estates with mixed price bands • Student accommodation • Retirement developments in secure estates • Affordable homes in traditional retirement or holiday towns • Lock-up-and-go units in urban precincts • Hotel-like services in luxury urban apartments • Majority of sales in first-time buyer price points

ABOVE Bosmans Club is a new apartment building in the Bosman’s Crossing precinct of Stellenbosch.

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• Luxury still selling, but taking longer • Financial prudence • Renegotiating interest rates

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GAUTENG

Where to buy TEXT Kim Maxwell PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

REAL property

residential

GAUTENG

Continued demand for housing in the low- and mid-tier pricing band is reflected in annual growth that exceeds the national house price inflation index by more than 0.4%. With the market ranging between 2% and 5% for some time after a recent slowdown, Lightstone’s Residential Property Indices for August 2019 highlight growth in the low- and mid-value wealth segments at more than 4% annually.

New and established residential hubs in Gauteng offer a safe and convenient lifestyle close to major business centres

ABOVE AND PREVIOUS PAGE The iQ Brooklyn development by Uniqon offers luxury apartment living within walking distance of the University of Pretoria.

SUMMER 2019/20

“Our inland municipalities of Ekurhuleni, City of Tshwane and City of Johannesburg are growing stably at rates of between 1% and 4%”, the report states. Real estate lags the real economy by 12 to 18 months, says Nedbank CIB executive for residential finance Somaya Joshua, so presold stock is still coming to market in the mid-tier housing sector (priced between R1.5 million and R2.5 million) in the traditional suburban nodes in Gauteng and Pretoria. “However, because of current economic conditions, effective demand has reduced. It is becoming more difficult for people to access funding and get the traditional 100% bond to buy that aspirational home, so we’re starting to see an uptick in affordable housing again.

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SWEET SPOT

TOTAL WEALTH “Areas like Randburg have had an increase in brownfield conversions – old office buildings being converted into a partment-style products,” says Joshua. “These offerings are attractive at rentals below R8 500 per month.” Yet, according to New World Wealth, Johannes burg is one of the top five w ealthiest cities in Africa. The global market research group’s 2019 Africa Wealth Report states that total wealth held in Joburg amounts to US$248 billion. “Most of Johannesburg’s wealth is concentrated in Sandton, which is home to the JSE, the largest stock market in Africa, and to the head offices of most of Africa’s largest banks and c orporates,” writes A ndrew Amoils. “Exclusive suburbs include Hyde Park, Sandhurst, Houghton and Westcliff.”

The FNB Q2 Property Barometer, which flags “attractive bargains in the higher end”, states that house prices have begun to fall in Sandton and environs, registering -1.7% year-on-year in Q1 19. “A similar trend emerges in other higher-end areas, such as Randburg and Midrand, which recorded 0.4% and 2.0% year-onyear in Q1 19 from 1.7% and 2.4% year-on-year, respectively, in Q4 18.” The City of Tshwane’s estimated average house price registered 1.5% year-on-year in Q1 19, down from 1.9% in Q4 18. Prices in Pretoria East and Centurion fell by 0.01% and 0.8% year-onyear, respectively, in Q1 19. “In contrast, the northern subregions, primarily comprised of middle- and low-income areas, are trending upwards,” write the authors. Pam Golding Properties’ Johannesburg North Quarterly Report of April 2019 cites residential properties priced up to R5 million as sought-after, “with the sweet spot being properties priced below R1.5 million”.

VIEWS AND MORE Developments like the ICONYC in Benoni tick all the boxes. Conceptualised by a dynamic team channelling the New York City look and lifestyle, the ICONYC overlooks the 17th and 18th holes of the Ebotse Links golf course on the CR Swart Dam. “Our buyers include

young couples and families whose highest priorities are security and convenience,” says director Evelthon Rotsides. The ICONYC also appeals to investors thanks to its proximity to the airport.

PRIME LOCATION Also near OR Tambo International Airport is Bedfordview Frontier Residential Estate. Near major routes, hospitals, schools and malls, the e state’s lifestyle component comprises a gym, convenience store, pool and crèche, among others. The 127 m2 three- bedroom, two-bathroom units are suitable for a more mature client who wants less maintenance,” says Rui Magalhaes of First Wave Holdings.

WORLD-CLASS Balwin Properties’ answer to a conveniently situated development is Kikuyu in Waterfall. The apartments are fibreready and equipped with world-class amenities, eco-friendly appliances, prepaid utilities and solar-supplemented electricity. This estate also has a lifestyle centre with magnificent facilities, including a mini sports field, an Amici restaurant and pizzeria, a Camelot spa and a cinema room.

ULTRA-MODERN Students looking for affordable accommo dation will love the location of iQ Brooklyn, just 800 m from the main

campus of the University of Pretoria. Priced from R995 000 for a studio, including transfer costs, the development offers superb security, fast internet and much more.

SECTIONAL TITLE One of the few developers to offer sectional title schemes where each unit, section or house is detached from any others, Craft Homes gives residents the benefits of security and affordability without compromising on space and exclusivity. With developments such as Waterfall Ridge, Melrose View and Pebble Lane in vibrant areas, its sectional title properties are close to arterial roads, public and private schools and retail options. Craft Homes is also at the forefront of nodal developments such as Hazeldean and Sandton Gate.

LUXURY DESIGN Skywood in Bryanston is a new sectional title development by Zotos Construction. It com prises 29 three-bedroom duplex townhouses designed with under stated luxury by Mark Laburn. “Whether you are looking for the ultimate buy-to-live-in home or to add to a property port folio assured of excellent long-term growth, Skywood offers a range of attractive features,” says business develop ment manager Walter Panto. Prices start from R3.49 million.

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SUMMER 2019/20

REAL property

retirement

GAUTENG

It’s official. The most populated area in South Africa for people aged 60 and older is Gauteng, according to Stats SA’s mid-year population estimate for 2019. Globally, the proportion of older people in the population is increasing. It stands to reason that there is a rising demand for homes modified for the lifestyle and care needs of this sector. “There is a growing market for retirement accommodation, because people reaching retirement age, whatever that may

Investors looking to retire in Gauteng’s urban hubs are spoilt for lifestyle estate choices offering top-notch amenities and facilities

ABOVE Celebration Retirement Estate in Northriding offers complete support facilities.

SUMMER 2019/20

be, no longer wish to move into an old-age home,” says Pam Golding Property Group CEO Andrew Golding. “With people living considerably longer, it is a new market, plus this age category is leading a more active and independent life, hence the change in demand for a type of lifestyle.” Evergreen Lifestyle brand marketing director Arthur Case says retiring baby boomers are looking for lifestyle solutions for independent living, both in homes and apartments. “Purchasers are generally scaling down in terms of house size but scaling up in terms of lifestyle – access to technology, resort-style facilities, good security and care when you need it, to avoid the need to relocate later in life.” reallifemagazine.co.za

“A retirement estate offering the correct combination of benefits generally attracts good rental demand,” says Calgro M3 Developments head of marketing and sales Ashika Veerasamy. “Based on the concept of holistic wellness, La Vie Nouvelle’s facilities are aimed at creating over all wellbeing, from the specialised architectural design and greening design principles to security measures.”

GREEN CERTIFICATION RESORT LIFESTYLE In Johannesburg, Evergreen Broadacres offers appealing homes and luxury apartments built around a s cenic natural wetland. A 2 000 m2 “resortstyle” lifestyle centre has dining areas, lounges, a gym, a heated indoor pool, a games rooms, a library and a beauty salon. Primary, recuperative, frail, dementia and palliative care are on offer to residents who need it. “Evergreen has had tremendous success with the life rights purchase model in the Western Cape and Gauteng,” says Case. “Life rights are chosen by retirees who do not want the burden of estate management and property risk.” La Vie Nouvelle Retirement and Wellness Estate, also in Broadacres, has 220 units, starting from R1.4 million.

Celebration Retirement Estate in Northriding and Waterkloof Marina Retirement Estate in Tshwane’s Waterkloof Ridge are two retirement estates pitched at the over-50 market and sold under the brand RetireNow. Celebration is Gauteng’s first retirement estate to receive EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiency) certification from the Green Building Council of South Africa for energyefficient green design. The energy-saving design, technology and materials used deliver a minimum of 20% more energy savings, keeping costs down. Celebration’s second phase was launched in October. Waterkloof M arina is the province’s first waterfront retirement estate. The development has sold 250 units since its launch in July. It is already releasing its

second phase of prime waterfront homes. Central Developments’ retirement estates all offer full ownership, meaning residents own the property outright and have an undivided share in the common property (it is a sectional title scheme). “Full ownership, coupled with high rental demand, results in an excellent investment with returns of up to 16% per annum – 8% rental returns and 8% capital growth – on selected units,” says Central Develop ments Property Group MD A nton Crouse. “We see more and more younger people investing as part of their own retirement planning, thus buying a retirement property at today’s prices and letting it until they or their parents want to move in, while getting above-average returns on their investment.”

GROWTH POINT In upmarket Tshwane East, big things are happening in the developing Hazeldean node. At The Retreat, 24 apartments are currently for sale and under con struction. “Some r etirees benefit from better financial planning than others, so we offer great value with an apartment in a fully operational estate in a good neighbourhood, with free access to all amenities,” says Craft Homes marketing manager

Jessica Cabanita. Apartments are only a small percentage of what’s on offer at The Retreat, however. Seven phases of freestanding homes have already been completed in this established development. Hazeldean itself is also on the up. “ Together with Abland, we’re developing the Hazeldean mixed-use nodal development of 950 ha,” says Cabanita. “In time, there will be a hospital, a shopping mall, office parks and a Gautrain station.”

OUTLYING AREAS Smaller towns in Gauteng are also attracting future retirees looking for an experience-rich lifestyle and a relaxed pace. Devmark Property Group recently launched its first retirement village outside the Western Cape as part of The Retirement Collection. Nooitgedacht Manor retirement village is to the north of White River, a developed town with schools, shopping centres and cinemas. It is 35 km from the Kruger National Park, with easy access to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. “The five phases of the development will offer 63 freehold homes and apartments, and a full-service sub-acute hospital. It will also have excellent communal facilities and state-ofthe-art security,” says Devmark Property Group residential development director Jean Ehlers.

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REAL property

Our buyers include young couples and families whose two highest priorities are security and convenience Evelthon Rotsides, director, ICONYC

TOP The ICONYC in Benoni. ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT 100 Oxford in Rosebank; Skywood in Porchester Road, Bryanston; La Vie Nouvelle Retirement Village in Broadacres; Evergreen Broadacres, an Evergreen Lifestyle Village.

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in White River, Mpumalanga

Selling from

R1 495 000

Chantelle | 064 544 1982 Adriana | 064 517 2877

in Langebaan, West Coast

Selling from R1 820 000 Christiaan | 064 544 7524 Walter | 064 544 2965

in Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route

Selling from

R1 495 000

Rob | 083 287 0018 www.devmark.co.za 28 Years of Property Development Success

18 apartments recently launched

www.TheCedar.CapeTown From R2.495 million

ORANJEZICHT, CAPE TOWN • • • • • •

3 exclusive penthouse apartments Panoramic Table Mountain views Communal landscaped terrace with jacuzzi 5 minutes drive to Camps Bay and Clifton Short-term letting and pet friendly Completion Q3 2021

CAMPS BAY, CAPE TOWN · · · ·

2 residences remaining

4 Bespoke residences 150m from Camps Bay Beach Independent water supply Backup power supply

· Completion November 2019 · Designed by award-winning architect, Jon Jacobson

www.TheAzure.CapeTown From R22.495 million

Ofﬁce - (+27) 021 425 8586 David - (+27) 072 385 4386 Catherine - (+27) 074 384 3127

CO NSCI OUS LIVING

REAL property

COASTAL

Where to buy TEXT Debbie Hathway, Tracy Ann van Blerk and Kim Maxwell PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

While living, working and playing in the city has appeal, many South Africans and foreigners still invest in dream homes on the coast

residential

COASTAL

South Africa is renowned for its magnificent coastline, offering attractive investment opportunities ranging from spectacular clifftop homes and quaint beachfront cottages to secure estates and trendy apartments. Now is the time to buy. In real terms, average house prices have continued to decline, according to FNB, whereas mortgage advances are increasing. Analysts recorded a 4.2% increase year-on-year in May 2019, the highest since July 2016. Meanwhile, low interest rates and keen competition between banks to grant mortgage loans have seen the loan-to-purchase price ratio for homes over the past two years increase to 90.6%. It’s the best result since the boomtime final quarter of 2007. 54

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WESTERN SEABOARD

SOMERSET WEST

WEST COAST

With its beaches, excellent schools, shopping centres and easy access to public transport, the Western Seaboard is a more affordable alternative to the Atlantic Seaboard, especially for first-time buyers. A recent FNB report highlights an increase in first-time buyer activity since property pricing became more favourable. In addition, 10.6% of total sales have been realised in the buy-to-let category.

With a number of top schools in the area, Somerset West appeals to young families. There is a wide choice of properties, from small apartments in secure estates to rural homes. Property values here have shown average growth of 13.1% over the past five years.

The rocky coastline, fynbos, wildflowers in spring and West Coast National Park are key attractions. Langebaan is an excellent spot for watersports and viewing a wide variety of birds, and Yzerfontein is now attracting a variety of investors.

Fynbos (Balwin) Close to Big Bay Beach, fibreready, with solar panels; two-bedroom, twobathroom apartments from R1.26 million

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Sitari Country Estate (Uvest) Luxury apart ments from R1.3 million The Huntsman (Balwin) Secure apartments with eco-friendly appliances and Wi-Fi from R849 900 The Jade (Balwin) One-bedroom onebathroom apartments from R989 900 Acorn Creek (MSP Developments) Designer apartments from R1.2 million Somerset Lakes (Lanis Salmon) Adventure lifestyle estate; options vary; two-bedroom Plover’s Nest townhouses from R1.6 million for 160 m2

Shark Bay Estate (Pam Golding Properties) Ecofriendly estate; plots from R2.6 million for 570 m2 Langebaan Sands (Linden Basson, Langebaan Properties) Luxury townhouses; twobedroom, two-bathroom homes from R2.2 million Ocean Villas (Graham Katz) Secure residential estate; simplex option from R7.9 million

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CAPE TOWN ATLANTIC SEABOARD & CBD Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property Group, says the surge in first-time buyers entering Cape Town’s property market bodes well for future house price recovery. “Coupled with the 6.6% price growth in July 2019, ahead of national house price inflation of 3.9%, positive news for property investors is that the Western Cape continues to lead the rebound in South Africa’s residential property market.”

Harbour Arch (Amdec) Investment from R2.77 million Bridgewater One (Property One) Century City apartments; mid 2021 completion date; from R1.91 million The Rubik (Abland) Luxury mixed-use lifestyle from R2.4 million The Duke (Mosaic Group) Luxury apartments in the CBD from R1.29 million

GARDEN ROUTE

WHALE COAST

KWAZULUNATAL

Ling Dobson, Pam Golding Properties area principal in Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, says the area offers a wonderful lifestyle for young families and retirees. “The region has good private schools, which serves the interests of families seeking a safer and healthier environment than the city.”

Hermanus has transformed from holiday getaway to vibrant destination to live, work, raise a family and ultimately retire. The area has worldclass medical and educational institutions, sports facilities as well as dynamic retail and hospitality sectors. “It offers everything from affordable apartments and sectional title developments to security estates, freestanding homes, upmarket seafront properties and lifestyle farms,” says Nicola Lloyd, Pam Golding Properties area manager.

The Mercer 2019 Quality of Living Ranking puts Durban at number 88 of 500 global destinations scored for things like recreation, housing, economic environment, public services and transport, schools and education, and medical and health considerations. “On average, Umhlanga has experienced growth of 5% to 8% year-on-year, which is much higher than the national average,” says Carol Reynolds, Pam Golding Properties area principal for Umhlanga, Umdloti and Durban North.

Kingswood Golf Estate (Pam Golding Properties) Garden Route golfing hub; 673 m2 – 843 m2 stands from R695 000 Nautilus Bay (Pam Golding Properties); plots available; fourbedroom home selling at R5.7 million Pezula Private Estate (Pam Golding Properties) On Knysna’s East Head; three stands left; 3 233 m2 stand selling at R2,6 million

Arabella Country Estate (Pam Golding Properties) Freehold lifestyle properties on a golf estate near Kleinmond; options vary; three-bedroom north-facing home selling at R4.28 million

Ballito Hills (Balwin) Secure, central and eco-friendly; onebedroom apartments from R1.05 million Coral Point (Pam Golding Properties) Upmarket apartments in Sibaya Precinct, from R1.6 million Ridge Town Central (Trapezoid) Onebedroom apartments from R1.1 million Zululami Phase 1 stands from R1.5 million

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retirement

COASTAL

Semigration to the coast has been an ongoing trend for a number of years now. The term refers to people who move within the country in search of a slower, more outdoorsy lifestyle away from the big city. Many over-50s are now semigrating to secure lifestyle estates on or near the coast.

GARDEN ROUTE Home to some of South Africa’s most desirable and scenic locations, with an exceptional lifestyle offering, it’s not surprising the Garden Route enjoys high appeal. “In recent years, there’s been a marked trend towards people relocating for a better quality lifestyle in a tranquil and secure environment on this spectacular coastline,” says Pam Golding Property Group CEO Andrew Golding. Depending on the location, residential property can be acquired from below R2 million up to R30 million-plus.

Devmark Residential Holdings director Jean Ehlers singles out Plettenberg Bay for “an excellent return on investment”. The town has two Blue Flag beaches, plus strict town planning to prevent highrise buildings. When it comes to retirement property specifically, The Plettenberg Manor offers eight accommodation types, designed in the Cape vernacular style. “Plettenberg Manor is popular because of its beautiful surroundings, excellent security, direct access to a private beach, hiking trails and bowling greens,” says Ehlers.

IN DEMAND Golding points out that residential property in George is always in demand. Aside from the well-known Fancourt, George also has prestigious lifestyle developments nearby such as Kingswood Golf Estate, Kraaibosch, Oubaai and Welgelegen Estate. Of course, not every retiree buys into a develop ment labelled “retirement estate”. “Our research shows that 62% of recent Fancourt residential property investors were mature buyers. Fancourt appeals to retirees,” says Pam Golding Properties George area manager Stephen Murray.

Our research shows that 62% of recent Fancourt residential property investors were mature buyers Stephen Murray, George area manager, Pam Golding Properties

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REAL property

CAPE TOWN AND SURROUNDS “Cape Town enjoys the legacy of a wellrun municipality, which includes great infrastructure, wellmaintained roads and a strategy of striving towards a positive symbiosis between the public, businesses and local government,” says Rabie Property Group director John Chapman. In the Northern Suburbs, De Plattekloof Lifestyle Estate is proving to be a premium fullownership retirement address. Independent apartments are priced from R1.586 million, and Exquisite Homes from R5.425 million in a full ownership model. “For those currently doing their research on where best to retire, De Plattekloof’s luxury homes set a new benchmark for retirement living, with meticulous attention to detail applied during the planning process,” says Johan Laubscher of Arun Holdings. Multigenerational Clara Anna Fontein Life style Estate is a popular choice in semi-rural Durbanville.“Retiring in Oasis Life Clara Anna Fontein offers owners a slice of farm life, with the security and benefits of an estate located in a traditional suburb setting,” says Chapman.

The recently launched Oasis Life Century City offers 62 luxury one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments on a life rights ownership basis.

ADDED VALUE Buh-Rein Retirement Village makes for a financially smart retire ment investment with added value thanks to a host of features and amenities. Located in Buh-Rein Estate in the Northern Suburbs, the retirement village welcomed its first residents in August. Case says the Cape has always been attractive from a property invest ment perspective. “Many seniors follow their children who have already relocated to the Cape for an improved lifestyle for their young families.” Evergreen Muizenberg is an established village with 260 homes and apartments, a 2 000 m2

lifestyle centre and amenities that include a heated indoor pool. “It’s close to the ocean as well as shops and services in Muizenberg, Lakeside and Fish Hoek. Homes are set in landscaped gardens and the village boasts an active social programme,” says Case. Its life rights-model two-bedroom and twobathroom apartments sell from R1.7 million. Some new three-bedroom, twobathroom homes with garages are available from R1.8 million on Evergreen’s flexible pricing model.

HOLIDAY LIFESTYLE Devmark is selling full-title homes, also close to the sea, in the West Coast holiday town Langebaan, which is about an hourand-a-half drive from Cape Town. The Langebaan Manor retirement develop ment will offer authentic West Coast architecture across the board from

apartments to threebedroom homes. At The Village at Langebaan Country Estate, retirees enjoy full retirement benefits while being part of a vibrant community where the luxurious clubhouse is at the heart of village life. Zevenwacht Lifestyle Estate is a sought-after choice for retirees keen on a country-coastal life style on the outskirts of Stellenbosch. “An estate exclusively for those 50 years and over, it offers unsurpassed views,” says Multi Spectrum Property spokesperson Werner Scheffer. This boutique estate offers retirees free standing lifestyle homes, independent-living apartments and assistedliving suites on either a full-title or sectional title purchasing model, with the potential of seeing above-average capital growth.

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retirement

COASTAL

continued

KWAZULUNATAL Retire KZN’s latest research shows that South Africans over the age of 50 don’t like the word retirement. “In fact, many of you over 50 will not consider an estate if it has the word retirement in it; even if it is on par with modern, luxury lifestyle estates,” reports Retire KZN in a September blog post. Yet plenty of retirees have taken the plunge and been pleasantly surprised. The common denominators: good home design and site layouts plus various amenities. Security, technological innovations and capital growth are often part of the package. This province has seen a surge in retirement developments after a drive to attract over55s. “We noticed this trend some two years ago and responded by purchasing prime land in Umhlanga Ridge and Zimbali Lakes near Ballito. We also hold prime land

in Hilton,” says Evergreen Retirement Holdings director Arthur Case. “The Midlands with its mild climate has always been a retirement destination for KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng retirees, and the North Coast is gaining popularity.” Evergreen should commence construction of these “world-class estates” towards the end of 2020. Pam Golding Properties area principal for Durban Coastal Gareth Bailey says enjoying a carefree lifestyle with facilities and services at hand is a selling

point. “Newer offerings along our coastline include Mount Edgecombe Retirement Village in Kindlewood Estate, which will ultimately comprise 260 homes. Also on the North Coast, Palm Lakes Estate near Ballito is experiencing an upward sales curve. Palm Lakes Retirement Village offers tailor-made retirement packages, from spacious full-title to sectional title units. Lazuli Lifestyle and Retirement Estate spokesperson Kevin Fisher calls Port Zimbali “a true

gem” on this coastline. “It presents a unique way of life, especially for those entering or in their retirement years – with its pleasant climate, top golf courses, beautiful beaches, upmarket shopping and nearby amenities, it really does have it all,” he says. Lazuli residents can invest in modern homes with panoramic sea, wetlands, indigenous forest or inland views. Lock-up-and-go Lazuli Lifestyle Apartments are selling off-plan, with estimated completion in mid-2021.

With its pleasant climate, top golf courses, beautiful beaches, upmarket shopping and nearby amenities, it really does have it all

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Kevin Fisher, spokesperson, Lazuli Lifestyle and Retirement Estate

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REAL property DID YOU KNOW?

In 2050,

80% of older people will live in low- and middle-income countries Source: World Report on Ageing and Health 2018, World Health Organization

2020

Low- and middle-income countries, according to 2019 World Population Review statistics, using World Bank data Low-income economies

Lower middle-income economies

Upper middle-income economies

By 2020,

Between 2015 and 2050, the

people aged

world’s population aged over

60 will almost double from

12%

and older will outnumber

22%

children younger than five years

RETIREMENT HOTSPOTS FOR WEALTHY SOUTH AFRICANS Source: South Africa Wealth Report 2019, AfrAsia Bank and New World Wealth

Ballito and surrounding

Hermanus is

Knysna is a top

George, also among

villages make up South

a retirement hotspot for

retirement destination.

the most popular

Africa’s “luxury residential

wealthy Johannesburg and

Residential estates here

retirement options in

estate capital”. The area is

Pretoria semigrants.

include Pezula, Simola

the country, is home to

and Thesen Island.

residential estate Fancourt.

home to Zimbali, Simbithi, Brettenwood and Dunkirk estates, among others.

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off-shore

COASTAL

Global wealth migration is accelerating, and governments offering investment migration programmes are attracting an increasing number of high-net-worth South Africans. Some of the most popular countries are Portugal, Mauritius, Greece, Malta and Grenada.

SUMMER 2019/20

Globally, about 108 000 high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) migrated last year, compared with 95 000 in 2017, according to the AfrAsia Bank Global Wealth Migration Review 2019, in which research partner New World Wealth presents insights on wealth trends in 90 countries. Australia attracted the most HNWIs in 2018, followed by the US, Canada, Switzerland, the UAE, the Caribbean, New Zealand, Singapore, Israel, Portugal, Greece and Spain, in that order. “Based on our estimates, about 3 000 HNWIs have left South Africa over the past 10 years,” says Andrew Amoils of New World Wealth. “Most of these individuals have gone to the UK, Australia and the US. Switzerland and Portugal are also popular destinations.” Global investment migration firm Henley & Partners notes that

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Brexit, Bolsonaro and the anti-government protests in Hong Kong are all contributing to a significant spike in interest in the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Programme and the Greece Golden Visa Programme. Amanda Smit, managing partner and head of South, Central and East Africa, says investment migration pro grammes are designed to manage the combination of risk and opportunity. “On the one hand, they create security: reliably diversifying risk through greater protection from volatile markets and political instability. On the other hand, residence- and citizenship-by-investment programmes permit access to an expanded suite of opportunities for travel, investment and influence. In both cases the benefits that accrue from having

multiple citizenships and/ or residencies create significant value for the investor, going beyond simply providing political risk insurance.”

BEST PROSPECTS Portugal remains the top destination of choice, with the capital, Lisbon, having been voted Europe’s best investment prospect for 2019. Head of Pam Golding Inter national Chris Immelman says: “Ranked ahead of Berlin, Dublin, Madrid, Frankfurt and Amsterdam in the Emerging Trends in Real Estate: Europe 2019 report, Lisbon is one of the smaller newcomers to the top 10, vying with the tried-and-tested markets in terms of ‘quality of life’ and ‘leadership’.” Since Pam Golding International began marketing property in Portugal a few years ago, it has concluded real

REAL property

estate transactions with nearly 300 South Africans. Lisbon and Porto are the most popular locations so far. “Over the past few months there’s been an uptick in enquiries and sales, mainly for properties in the price band between ¤500 000 and ¤1 million, to meet the minimum investment criterium,” says Immelman. In special circum stances, the entry level may be lowered to ¤350 000 for invest ment in units in renovated buildings that are at least 30 years old in historically significant locations earmarked as urban regeneration areas. Porto’s Hotel Belas Artes and The Rebello Luxury Hotel Apartments are examples. Property investors can achieve net yields of more than 4%. With capital growth of 10.1% YTD, this positive trajectory is set to continue thanks to improvements to infra structure, low levels of unemployment, a booming tech industry and com petitive pricing against other European cities. Martinhal Residences in the Parque das Nações neighbourhood near Lisbon International Airport has a luxurious family living environment, concierge services and superb amenities. The project offers guaranteed 4% yields for six years. Prices range from ¤265 000 for a 38.76 m2 studio apartment to ¤1.05 million for a 161.5 m2 four-bedroom apartment.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

LEAST EXPENSIVE

FIVE-STAR RESORT

Mauritius ticks many boxes for those looking for motivation to move to a new country for the benefit of permanent residency, an appealing tax regime, economic prospects and a generally safe environment. Not to mention the sheer beauty of this Indian Ocean island and its relaxed lifestyle. Mauritius is one of the wealthiest countries in Africa (in terms of average wealth per person), a status it is expected to maintain for the foresee able future – and tops the log for ease of doing business in Africa. “Mauritius has proven to be a very strong off shore investment for South Africans who invested here five to 10 years ago,” says Richard Haller, director, Pam Golding Properties (Mauritius). “For example, since the launch of Mont Choisy Le Parc Golf & Beach Estate in the north of the island, some villa owners have seen up to 60% growth at resale. On average in Grand Baie we have seen 7% per annum capital growth over the past five years.” More and more South Africans are making Mauritius their second home, in response to actions by a stable govern ment, steady economic growth, and international

The least expensive way to get a residence permit in the EU is via the Greece Golden Visa Programme. The minimum property investment is ¤250 000, with citizenship possible after seven years of residence. “With the current tourism boom, acquiring real estate in Greece is now one of the most profit able types of investments, with ample opportunities for capital appreciation in a depressed real estate market,” according to Henley & Partners. “From being on the brink of bankruptcy a decade ago, Greece is quickly becoming a leading destination for entrepreneurs, remote workers and digital nomads due to its exceptional and relatively low cost of living.” Successful applicants and their families are able to benefit from visafree access to Europe’s Schengen Area within two months of applying. They are allowed to let their property and hold shares and receive income from the dividends of a company registered in Greece (but they may not be employed in Greece). Residence applies the whole family (married spouse, children under 21 and parents of the main applicant and spouse) and there is no requirement to live in Greece. The residence permits do not have an expiry date.

Kimpton Kawana Bay is the leading citizenship-byinvestment (CBI) project in Grenada. A five-star resort located on Grand Anse Beach, named USA Today’s best Caribbean beach in 2018, Kimpton Kawana Bay offers deeded freehold real estate at the minimum CBI investment amount of US$220 000. “With a low investment from just $220 000 for a suite, clients are able to become shareholders in a financially sound resort operated by the reputable Kimpton brand, which is part of the InterContinental Hotels Group,” says Geoffrey Crow, global head of marketing for Kimpton Kawana Bay. Adds Immelman: “It has a transparent revenue-sharing model and hassle-free ownership with no additional cash outlay requirements. Its one-bedroom suites and studios are for sale as free hold condominiums and properties can be resold after five years to buyers who are also eligible for Grenadian citizenship.” Grenada’s CBI programme gives global access rights that other CBI programmes around the world simply cannot rival. Citizens who are tax residents in Grenada are not subject to pay Grenadian tax on their foreign income, nor do they pay any wealth, gift, inheritance or capital gains tax.

schools and retailers. English is one of the official languages, which makes it even easier to settle.

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REAL property

Seven years of residency in Greece qualifies you for

citizenship

NEED TO KNOW PORTUGAL

GRENADA

MALTA

GREECE

MAURITIUS

Why: Visa-free travel in the Schengen Area; the right to live and work in Portugal; EU residency How: Invest

Why: Visa-free travel to more than 140 countries, including the UK and Schengen Area How: Donate from US$150 000 as

Why: First proven European destination where you can get citizenship rather than just residency How: Residency costs start at

Why: The Greek property recession is over; low real estate prices and high demand mean higher returns

Why: Mauritius is the perfect all-rounder, particularly for South Africans How: Get permanent

a minimum amount of ¤500 000 in real estate

an individual or invest US$350 000 in a governmentapproved real estate project (US$220 000 in select cases); additional fees apply

¤30 000 plus investment of ¤150 000 into government bonds (to be held for five years) and property investment of more than ¤320 000

How: Qualify for residency when you buy real estate for more than ¤250 000; seven years of residency in Greece qualifies you for citizenship

residency for you, your spouse, and children under the age of 24 when you buy residential property for US$500 000 upwards

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REAL property

Paradise

FOUND

TEXT Debbie Loots PHOTOGRAPHS Supplied

Stepping onto Mauritian soil for the first time, it’s difficult not to get island fever – in a good way. It’s the stuff dreams are made of: balmy weather, powderwhite beaches, a translucent sea, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Bliss, in other words. And because of its proximity to South Africa, strong investment-protection regulations and permanent residency options, Mauritius is a choice property investment destination for South Africans.

A world-class golf village is the newest addition to Azuri, a luxury island-style residential development in Mauritius… I found paradise only a short trip across the ocean It’s easy to imagine living here permanently. Especially if an option is the lovely Azuri Ocean and Golf Village on the island’s north-east coast, a secure seaside village overlooking a nine-hole golf course complete with a lagoon and natural mangrove-supported ecosystem. With beachfront land especially coveted in Mauritius, Azuri is prime property, as it is one of only two developments offering freehold ownership. What makes Azuri even more special is its charming village lifestyle. It has a way of bringing all its residents together, people from all across the world, giving it a real cosmopolitan buzz. This spills over to the small businesses: the bustling cafes, the casual and fine-dining restaurants with their international chefs, the gourmet shops and the boutiques. And then there’s the all-round friendly hospitality and attentive service Mauritians are renowned for. No wonder the first phase of Azuri is sold out. But don’t worry, if you are considering investing in Azuri, there are still ample opportunities. Especially if you are a golfer, professional or not. Azuri’s newest neighbourhood, Rive Droite with its three residential clusters – Ocean River Golf View Villas, Ennéa, and Amara – has an internationally designed golf course at its heart. And you will have an eco-friendly electric buggy to get you around, either to the village or from one fairway to the next.

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SUMMER 2019/20

REAL property Rive Droite’s three clusters comprise 88 penthouses, villas, and apartments, all set close to the river bank with beautiful views of the golf course and the mountain range in the distance. The interiors of the residences in the three cluster differ, but they all capture the authentic spirit of Mauritius. The Ennéa residences embrace relaxed indoor-outdoor living, with glass doors opening onto expansive private terraces. Throughout, the feel is light and contemporary thanks to the use of natural materials such as volcanic stone and wood from the island. The Amara residences, a short buggy ride from the village, offer peace and tranquillity away from the buzz. The architectural design incorporates the natural surroundings and embraces outdoor living with private terraces and pools. And the views are spectacular. The Ocean River Golf View Villas are

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situated on the northern part of the golf course. The villas are light-filled and modern, reflecting an outdoor island lifestyle as much as its counterparts. Clean geometric lines form a striking contrast with the lush tropical surroundings. Residents’ personal tastes and preferences are considered. Says Christine Marot, CEO of BlueLife, the developer of Azuri: “Any of the interiors can be tailor-designed and created to suit the client’s specific needs and requirements, and all the homes are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and appliances.” Getting from the village to the major towns for big shopping expeditions, medical assistance and schools are also quick and easy. A daily school bus service is available to the nearest international school. With all this going on, who would want to leave the beautiful Azuri at all? I think it’s a paradise big enough to get lost in. azuri.mu

REAL design

FIVE REASONS TO INVEST IN MAURITIUS

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the numberone economy in Africa to do business with, and ranks 13th globally

Total wealth growth of 20% in 2017 (ranked among the top five globally) and 195% over 10 years (thirdÂ globally)

Property value expected to grow by 40% in the next 10 years

Strong GDP growth of 5.9% since 2006

Mauritian residency with purchases over US$500 000

reallifemagazine.co.za reallifemagazine.co.za SUMMER SPRING 2019/20 2018 00 67

The residential property market shows early green shoots

As another year draws to a close, this is often a time to look ahead and consider relocation for career or lifestyle changes. These decisions usually have positive implications for activity in the residential property market. The housing market fundamentals have improved in recent months with bank data confirming the uptick. It has seen a modest strengthening in demand coupled with a gradual slowdown in properties entering the market for resale. The improvement is evident across all price bands but is relatively stronger at the lower end. Looking ahead, there is a sense that economic activity has the potential to improve in the new year. It is hoped that this means the property market, which is largely dominated by political and economic factors, is near an inflection point destined for significant improvement. This is especially so for first-time buyers who, according to mortgage originator, ooba, are benefiting from banksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; increased lending appetite. This includes 100% home loans incorporating property transfer and bond registration costs. In this edition, we are pleased to showcase properties from around the country. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the market, we hope you come across a property that appeals to you and your needs. If not, simply enjoy looking at these beautiful homes. Whether a buyer or a seller, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be delighted to help with your property journey.

Dr Andrew Golding Chief Executive, Pam Golding Property group

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2019/11/01 11:12

SECTIONAL TITLE TRUSTEES: MONITOR YOUR MANAGING AGENT If a body corporate member suffers a financial loss due to, for example, an averaged or refuted claim as a result of under-insurance of the buildings in the scheme, the owner is likely to seek alternative ways to recover the shortfall.

By law, trustees are the elected

Does this change when the trustees

representatives of the body of

appoint a managing agent to

owners in a sectional title scheme

assist in the performance of their

and they are entrusted to attend

management and administrative

to the scheme’s financial and

tasks? No! The primary fiduciary

maintenance management,

responsibility remains with the

setting up funds for upkeep,

trustees.

record-keeping, and promoting an understanding of the rules

The duties of the managing agent

amongst owners, in good faith

is generally set out in a service

and with the scheme’s best

agreement entered between the

interest in mind.

trustees and the managing agent and any duty not tasked to the managing

The duties they perform are

agent remains with the trustees. In

prescribed by law and binding

addition, whilst the managing agent

on them to the extent that they

must act in good faith at all times, it

are placed in a fiduciary position

remains the trustees’ responsibility to

vis-à-vis the body of owners.

liaise closely with the managing agent

This implies a high level of

to make sure all tasks are properly

responsibility and accountability.

attended to.

In the above scenario, it might open trustees to claims if they

For assistance in your sectional

did not perform their duties in the

title management, contract us on

way required.

info@stbb.co.za.

Cape Town Claremont Fish Hoek Helderberg

T: 021 406 9100 T: 021 673 4700 T: 021 784 1580 T: 021 850 6400

Blouberg Tyger Valley Illovo Fourways

T: 021 521 4000 T: 021 943 3800 T: 011 219 6200 T: 010 001 2632

Centurion Bedfordview East London

T: 012 001 1546 T: 011 453 0577 T: 043 721 1234