Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Demand for secure estate living in Stellenbosch still soaring
HOMES in security estates are the most sought-after properties in Stellenbosch, generally selling faster than any other residential property with agents in the area reporting significant stock shortages.
Until recently the growing demand was mainly experienced at the estates in and around the town, with developments more than a kilometre or two away often regarded as undesirable and in the middle of nowhere.
This is according to Candice Laubscher of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, who says that this perception is rapidly changing.
“Towards the end of last year, when demand began to substantially outstrip supply and prices of estate homes in town skyrocketed, prospective buyers had no choice but to consider other properties in the surrounding area.
“It wasn’t long before people began to realise that the exceptional value for money, convenient location and relaxed country lifestyle offered by developments like De Wijnlanden Estate far outweigh the few extra kilometres they need to drive to get to town.”
Laubscher says there are several key factors contributing to the rapidly growing demand for these properties, including a dearth of available land for development in Stellenbosch.
“A major drawcard is the more accessible price point of the satellite estates as the recent surge in property values in town has placed these homes out of the reach of many investors, with entry level prices now starting at around R4.2m and prices in popular estates like De Zalze prices begin at R8.5m.
“Although scarce, with patience a sizeable entry level home in a development just a few kilometres away can be bought for about R3m. The added advantage of established estates out of town is that plots on estates built before regulation changes in 2008 also tend to be larger so the residents enjoy a greater sense of privacy.”
Another contributing factor cited by Laubscher is the sharp increase in Gauteng investors who are seeking a safer, more relaxed lifestyle in the Cape and they generally prefer living in secure, gated estates which offer peace of mind as well as a sense of community.
“Hi-tech security systems are now the norm at many estates, with some like De Wijnlanden going the extra mile by ensuring resident’s security with electric fencing reenforced with anti-dig concrete, 24-hour guarding and hi-tech thermal cameras which cover the entire perimeter and detect body heat up to 15m outside the fence.
“We are also seeing increased interest from Durban investors and a lot of expatriates still living and working abroad are investing now as the exchange rate is so greatly in their favour,” says Laubscher.
The estates offer outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers an idyllic lifestyle with many activities and facilities available on the premises, such as walking and cycling routes, parks where children can safely play and even dams. Many also have sports facilities like tennis courts and driving ranges.
Lew Geffen, chairman of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty says: “Property in secure estates in areas like Stellenbosch is without a doubt a sound investment which offers investors excellent returns.
The growing population has also spurred the establishment of two new schools, with Reddam and Curro due to open next year.