All you need to know about choosing a retirement home
for a low-maintenance property that won’t take too much effort to keep in shape.
BY BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.zaSOUTH AFRICANS are living longer and retirees are maintaining their active lifestyles, forcing developers to meet these changing demands.
Many modern retirement villages and developments are doing just that, but picking the right home can be a challenge, especially as retirees have so many factors to consider.
Whether you picture yourself living your golden years in a vibrant retirement community, jet-setting from a lock-and-go home base, or settling in a quiet cottage by the sea, choosing the right retirement property isn’t a task to be taken lightly, says David Jacobs, the Gauteng regional sales manager for the Rawson Property Group.
To assist retirees in making the right decision, he says these are the most important questions to ask:
Will I be close to friends and family?
Most retirement-aged people would have spent a number of years in one town or neighbourhood, setting down roots, building friendships and being with family. While retiring to a quaint cottage in a seaside town might sound idyllic, Jacobs cautions people not to take their community ties for granted.
While it is easy to believe that adult children and friends will visit, the reality is that life often gets in the way.
“The last thing you want to do is end up feeling isolated and alone in your retirement. If you’re not joining a community where you can easily forge new ties, I’d definitely
suggest staying within comfortable reach of the people you love.”
Will I have easy access to the amenities I need?
Realistically, most retirees reach an age where they’re not comfortable driving long distances. That makes it important to find a property close to the amenities you may need. Jacobs highly recommends retirement buyers check out the shops, restaurants, parks, social clubs and medical facilities in a neighbourhood before deciding to move in.
Will I be safe?
It’s a sad fact that we become more vulnerable to crime as we get older.
Your retirement property should be a sanctuary where you (and your belongings) feel safe and secure.
“Security is one of the biggest draw cards for community living in retirement. Both retirementspecific and ordinary sectional title developments offer far more sophisticated security than your average freehold property.
“It’s also comforting to have neighbours nearby who will notice if anything happens to you or your property. Freehold homes may offer more space and privacy, but can also be more isolating,” he says.
How much maintenance will I need to do?
Getting older inevitably makes basic home maintenance like mowing lawns and clearing gutters a lot more difficult to do yourself.
Unless you’re great at organising contractors, Jacobs suggests opting
“This is another draw card for sectional title properties where a significant portion of maintenance is handled by the body corporate. Of course, if you’re an avid gardener, you’re going to want to opt for a townhouse or ground floor apartment rather than the lowest maintenance option of a lock-andgo apartment.”
What costs will I need to budget for?
All properties come with monthly bills. Freehold properties have rates, water, electricity and sanitation services, and sectional title properties add levies to that list as well.
“Retirement communities often have much higher levies to pay for value-added services like social clubs, health care and communal dining, for example. You’ll need to weigh up the value these might add to your life to figure out if they’re worthwhile for you.”
Jacobs also cautions buyers to make certain they understand the full implication of any life rights conditions that may apply to retirement properties.
“These can make a big difference to your estate, which may or may not factor into your decision.”
Are there any restrictions that may impact my freedom? Your retirement should be a time to enjoy life’s pleasures, not a time to be limited in what you can and can’t do.
“If you’re buying into a sectional title development, in particular, you’re going to want to read the code of conduct to check any restrictions. A lot of places may not be pet friendly, for instance, which would be a deal-breaker for
fur parents. Ultimately, your chosen property needs to support your ideal lifestyle as well as any activities –and cohabitants – that will bring you joy,” he says.
Don’t buy too early A fully paid-for home is a great aim if you’re planning for a financially secure retirement, but you should not buy your “dream retirement cottage” too far in advance, says Gerhard Kotzé, the managing director of the RealNet national estate agency group.
While planning to retire to a holiday home that you bought years ago might seem like a great idea, a lot can change before that day arrives.
“For a start, there have been huge economic upheavals and lifestyle changes globally over the past few years that have really altered the traditional idea of retirement, and many people are now opting to continue working well into their 60s and even 70s.
“Others who are still in good health are taking the opportunity after retirement from corporate life to start new businesses, launch new careers and undertake new tertiary level studies.
“A move to an ‘active lifestyle’ retirement village close to their home may be a much better move for them than relocation to a coastal or country holiday home.”
On the other hand, Kotzé says, you could experience unexpected health problems as you get older, and then your best option might be to buy a cottage or apartment in a continuing care retirement village where you would have peace of mind about always being able to access any medical assistance you may require.”
And then there’s the question of possibly leaving friends and family.
“We have seen many upcountry
residents who planned to retire at the coast because they always enjoyed their family holidays there, change their minds when it hits home that their children, grandchildren and long-time friends won’t be going with them, so they may only get to see them once or twice a year, at best.
“Modern technology can, of course, do much to help them stay in touch, but it’s difficult to make a new circle of friends later in life, and very hard to leave a family support network.”
Apart from these personal issues, he says, a holiday home that seems like a serene and pleasant retirement option might not stay that way, especially if it’s in an area that suddenly becomes a hugely trendy tourist destination teeming with strangers every holiday season.
“In addition, buying too early and too far away from your current home might mean you also have to deal with the problems of being an absentee landlord for several years. Finding the right tenant and ensuring that the property is properly maintained will be an ongoing concern, even if you have a reliable and responsible letting agent.”
His advice to those considering buying a second property as part of their retirement planning is to invest in a rental property close to their home, where they can monitor property values and react quickly to any changes they don’t like.
“Then, when you are ready to retire or at least to sell the family home and downscale, you will have the choice of either retiring to this second property, or keeping it as an investment, or selling it as well as your primary residence and then buying the retirement home that is exactly right for your needs and preferences at that time.”
KATHERINE HEWITT* has just turned 50, and purchased her first home this year to ensure she has a roof over her head when she retires.
But she, like many South Africans, is worried that she has left her retirement planning too late, especially as she has no savings, some debt, and only a small pension.
“Two years ago, I realised that, because I had spent my best work years freelancing and supporting my parents and siblings who were battling, I hadn’t got around to thinking about ever retiring.
“’Live for today, why even worry about tomorrow when it may not even come’, was my thinking.
“I woke up on the eve of my 48th birthday, realising I had nothing – no savings, a stack of Covid debt owing to my landlord who refused to write off
BY BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.zaeven a fraction of it, and a rental that was increasing every year. I shuddered in fear.
“I realised I probably had 10 good years to get things right.”
With this sudden realisation and mindset change, Hewitt chose to give up her freelance lifestyle and take a permanent job, which eventually helped her get a bond and plunge into the world of property.
“I managed to get a 20-year, 110% bond that paid for my transfer duties and also allowed me to get on the property ladder.”
She purchased a tiny fixer-upper in a small suburb and went about transforming it little by little, although it has a way to go. But because it is a bedsit, she is unable to rent out a room to make money.
“Although I keep hearing how property can no longer be considered an investment, there is a part of me that is exhaling. Should I live another 18 years, once my bond is paid off when I am 70, I know
that I have a roof over my head, no matter what, and that no landlord can throw me out onto the streets.
“Of course, I do have a knot in my stomach every time interest rates hike, and I wonder how, if they keep going up, I will be able to make payments.”
Hewitt has a small provident fund via her employer but she knows it will not be enough when she has to retire (compulsory) in her 60s. She takes solace in the fact that she will at least have something to tide her over for a few months.
“The reality is that I will have to work for the rest of my life. But at least a roof over my head will be taken care of by then… I hope.”
Furthermore, by being forced to tighten her purse strings, she has realised how little she needs to live.
Hewitt worries about whether her decision to buy a property was the right one though, or if she should be looking
for other, or additional, ways to diversify her money – something she is hearing a lot these days.
“However, I am very fearful of anything risky and, in addition, with rising costs there isn’t much money to go around. Whatever I get goes straight to my bond.”
While it may be little consolation or offer much peace of mind, the 50-year-old is not alone with her concerns.
Lee Hancox, the head of channel and segment marketing at SanlamConnect, says the 2022 Sanlam Benchmark survey showed that 66% of South Africans are worried about retirement.
Getting started is sometimes the hardest part, and so she congratulates Hewitt for taking the first step.
“It can be overwhelming to know what to do though, but you don’t need to walk this journey alone. Now that you have recognised the need to take a look at your expenses, as well as prepare for your retirement, the next logical step is to partner with a financial adviser.
“It’s a common misconception that only the wealthy can afford a financial adviser, but no matter how much, or how little you’re working with, the value of a good financial adviser lies in their ability to look at your personal circumstances and guide you appropriately from a financial planning perspective.”
Hancox says a financial adviser will help Hewitt create a budget, if she does not have one, and help her reprioritise her expenses so that she can direct funds to retirement.
“They will also discuss various strategies to help prepare and guide you on how to appropriately invest over the next 10 or so years, so that you can move forward with confidence, taking into account your appetite for risk, exposure to the market, and other factors.
“A financial adviser will also help you make informed and objective decisions based on the facts at hand, rather than being led by emotion.”
She adds: “Remember, rather late than never when it comes to saving towards retirement. Every little bit counts.”
* Not her real name.
New beginnings at Renishaw Hills
FROM fresh starts to exciting new chapters, Renishaw Hills is the perfect setting to enjoy what ought to be the summer of your life.
Set on the pristine Mid-South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, an award-winning home in our established village gives you the chance to live the holiday, while celebrating the best of indoor and outdoor living, just as Mother Nature intended.
With loads to see and even more
to do every day, our beautiful location, thriving community and busy events calendar keep the mind and body active so you can stay forever young!
As part of the highly anticipated and newly formed Renishaw Coastal Precinct, our village is part of a much bigger picture that works seamlessly to deliver the height of coastal investment, lifestyle and convenience. It’s why owning a home at Renishaw Hills yields some
promising returns in terms of finance, happiness and overall living.
Be part of our ever-growing family of happy residents who have found their new beginning at Renishaw Hills.
Take a scenic drive and join us for a private tour and a closer look at our various award-winning home by emailing sales@renishawhills.co.za.
Can’t visit us just yet?
Take a virtual tour: renishawhills.co.za/house-tours/
A HOME FOR LIFE: NOBLE RESORTS
NESTLED on a gentle rise neighbouring the world-famous Allesverloren Wine Estate, Noble Resorts Allesverloren is conveniently close to Cape Town yet a whole world away. A luxury residential development for all stages of life that embraces multigenerational living.
Younger people and retirees enjoy residing within the same precinct. Whether a small family starting off or a couple nearing retirement, Noble Resorts Allesverloren is a home for life, with all the lifestyle amenities and medical care on site that might be needed later in life. Our development offers a wide variety of properties to suit our clients’ lifestyle needs.
“We know that age-segregated ‘old age homes’ do very little to extend or enhance later-life living. Global studies have shown that the benefits of an integrated community for both young and old are far-reaching for both groups, increased community connections and familial bonds are one of them. We know that loneliness is a primary cause of depression in older people and by living in an integrated community with programmes that encourage engagement, we know this will be significantly reduced in our residents lives,” says Harry Pretorius, the CEO and developer of Noble Resorts.
Inspired by traditional vernacular Cape Dutch Architecture, there are 255 units, ranging from compact studios to garden cottages and exclusive villas. Residents will also enjoy the services of a dedicated 24-hour concierge, hotel-style amenities such as a resort pool, holistic spa, cinema, bistro and a specialised integrative wellness programme. Our focus is on you living your best life at our Noble Resorts.
Noble Resorts Allesverloren will also offer premium care to its residents should their health and medical needs change. We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach simply won’t work. Everyone’s needs differ, be it physical, emotional, mental, social or medical, which is why we look at individuals holistically and tailor our care to their specific needs. As such, the NobleCARE precinct will offer an on site clinic and a specialist memory care unit for residents in need of dementia care. Various home-based care options will also be available for residents in the privacy and comfort of their own homes. NobleCARE provides exceptional medical and memory care to its residents, driven by our expert care partners in the Netherlands and implemented by a dedicated team of specialists in South Africa.
While our approach embraces luxury, a sense of feeling welcome is what we’re aiming for, where you can be yourself or reinvent yourself in any way you choose. We have thought of everything
Living with us means complete peace of mind to enjoy your life at your pace.
www.nobleresortsallesverloren.co.za
THE CHOICE of where to put down roots has grown dramatically for discerning retirees over the past few decades. Retirement estates are held to a higher standard, not only in terms of the facilities and services on offer but, more importantly, based on what value they can add to our retirement.
Helderberg Village offers a secure lifestyle that supports a vibrant and active community of residents, complete with every amenity you could need and peace of mind, where one can relax and live the Helderberg Village lifestyle.
Choosing an estate that is financially secure and well run is vital in these unsettled economic times. Helderberg Village has an strong balance sheet and is one
of the most financially secure sectional title developments in the country.
Transitioning into retirement can be an emotionally challenging time, with the structured workdays suddenly coming to an end and questions of how to fill one’s time. The right environment, one that is able to provide a well-deserved “gearing down” while encouraging social interaction and fulfilment, is often high on the list of needs of prospective buyers.
Retirement should be anything but boring. Don’t settle – do what you love, follow your passion It’s all waiting for you right here at Helderberg Village Lifestyle Estate. For more information, call +27 21 855 8313
Vibrant Mbango Valley
MBANGO VALLEY is set in beautifully kept gardens with flowing streams and ponds surrounded by nature.
This gem of an abode is well secured with electric fencing surrounds and has 24 hour security, with an active and involved security company. All units have panic buttons connected to security and health support.
There is sufficient water storage for almost two weeks and there are generators for the village which ensure that all cottages have electricity throughout load shedding
The main village consists of little villages with units of various sizes including bedsitters, one, two and three-bedroomed units to suit your needs. Rentals or life rights are available. There is also a frail care offering long term care and short term respite stays.
At Mbango Valley, residents are encouraged to live an active and social life. There are bowling and croquet greens, a swimming pool and a putting green. There is an active entertainment division, putting on activities such as braais, bingo, musical shows, wine tastings and quiz evenings. Buses provide weekly transport to shopping malls Other outside activities are also arranged, with transport provided.
The South Coast of KwaZulu Natal boasts gorgeous beaches, with a wealth of ocean life and marine activities Mbango Valley is just outside Port Shepstone, close to the beaches and malls.
To book your place in paradise, contact Roween at 039 682 5251 or email: housing@mbango.org.za or website: www.mbango.org.za
THE INTRODUCTION of Amber Glades’ luxury two- bedroom, twobathroom apartments, has been highly anticipated by those wanting to enjoy the established benefits of community living without compromising on space or lifestyle.
The Grand Barrington and Grand Ballygowan are elegant, spacious and comfortable, offering everything you need from a home, yet with the
peace of mind that comes from being within a supportive and caring community.
Amber Glades is an etablished and vibrant senior living community in the sought after KZN Midlands village of Howick. At Amber Glades, you can maintain your independence and are encouraged to embrace an active and sociable lifestyle.
You have the added assurance of living within a community designed to evolve
with you as you age.
At Amber Glades, you have access to a range of facilities, as well as personalised care and support. The specialist Health Care Centre includes a Day Clinic and state-of-the-art, 12-bed Care Centre.
Book a viewing of Amber Glades today. Michele would love to show you around the community, designed with you in mind. Michele: 078 868 4736 www.amberglades.co.za.
GARDEN HOMES FOR THE PRICE OF A FLAT
HOMES
THE
TH enclosed landscaped and lawned garden, and an enclosed braai on an open patio, ideal for the enjoyment of young and old (and pets). The solid side-wall boundaries of the homes are designed for privacy and safety. The magical Stellenbosch mountain views and fresh country air is a priceless asset that comes with every home purchase.
have an enclosed landscaped and lawned garden, and an enclosed braai on an open patio, ideal for the enjoyment of young and old (and pets). The solid side-wall boundaries of the homes are designed
privacy and safety. The magical Stellenbosch mountain views
fresh country
is a priceless asset that comes with every
Modern homes with top class finishes and amenities
The homes are thoughtfully designed to maximise space, enhanced by increased ceiling heights throughout. The finishes include fitted kitchens with granite tops, a selection of floor tiles, and vinyl floorboard finishes. High end sanitaryware and tapware are included, and the kitchen will be fitted with a gas hob oven. The houses will all be wired in order to be invertor ready, allowing residents to provide their own power back up system, and easily connect to essential plugs and lighting. A central fibre network will ensure that every home is internet ready, with several internet providers to choose from.
Modern homes with top class finishes and amenities The homes are thoughtfully designed to maximise space, enhanced by increased ceiling heights throughout. The finishes include fitted kitchens with granite tops, a selection of floor tiles, and vinyl floorboard finishes. High end sanitaryware and tapware are included, and the kitchen will be fitted with a gas hob oven. The houses will all be wired in order to be invertor ready, allowing residents to provide their own power back up system, and easily connect to essential plugs and lighting. A central fibre network will ensure that every home is internet ready, with several internet providers to choose from.
Access to all the Aan de Wijnlanden Estate facilities
Viognier residents will be able to enjoy the 50 hectare estate, including its modern clubhouse with its large entertainment area, kiddies clubhouse, tennis courts, equipped gymnasium, swimming pool kilometres of walking trails and a 5ha conservation area. The estate already provide for a 24 hour manned security team, a CCTV monitored system and biometric access control.
landscaped areas on the common property
Access to all the Aan de Wijnlanden Estate facilities
Location and access
Viognier residents will be able to enjoy the 50 hectare estate, including its modern clubhouse with its large entertainment area, kiddies’ clubhouse, tennis courts, equipped gymnasium, swimming pool, kilometres of walking trails and a 5ha conservation area. The estate already provide for a 24 hour manned security team, a CCTV monitored system and biometric access control.
Competitive levy
gas they use. Groundwater from the estate will be used to irrigate landscaped areas on the common property
Competitive levy
The competitive levy of only R1 400 a month covers all the costs of security, common property landscaping, estate management as well as normal sectional title costs.
Prices and plans
The competitive levy of only R1 400 a month covers all the costs of security, common property landscaping, estate management as well as normal sectional title costs.
Viognier is centrally located, with easy access to Stellenbosch, Somerset West, Strand’s beaches and Cape Town International Airport. It’s set within minutes of some of the Western Cape’s best schools and universities.
Location and access
A good investment
Viognier is centrally located, with easy access to Stellenbosch, Somerset West, Strand’s beaches and Cape Town International Airport. It’s set within minutes of some of the Western Cape’s best schools and universities.
A good investment
All the homes have been planned and designed with economy of running costs and reduced maintenance in mind. Energy usage will be minimised by the provision of gas hobs and a central hot water system allowing homeowners to pay only for the hot water and
system,
to
There are four plans, with the two bedroom one bathroom home starting at R1 295 000, and the three bedroom two bathroom home from R1 595 000. The price includes VAT, a parking bay and transfer fees. Lock up garages are available for sale, and there is an option to enclose the patio with aluminum sliding doors.
All the homes have been planned and designed with economy of running costs and reduced maintenance in mind. Energy usage will be minimised by the provision of gas hobs and a central
the
Prices and plans
There are four plans, with the two bedroom one bathroom home starting at R1 295 000, and the three bedroom two bathroom home from R1 595 000. The price includes VAT, a parking bay and transfer
Occupation of the homes will be from July 2023.
Lock up garages are available for sale, and there is an option to enclose the patio with aluminum
For further
doors.
Occupation of the
visit viognier.aandewijnlanden.co.za
will be from July 2023.
at
Mbango Valley is set in beautifully kept gardens with flowing streams and ponds surrounded by nature. This gem of an abode is well secured with electric fencing surrounds and has 24 hour security with an active and involved security company. All units have panic buttons connected to security and health support. There is sufficient water storage for almost two weeks and there are generators for the entire village which ensure that all cottages have electricity throughout Eskom load-shedding times.
The village comprises of little villages within a main village with units of different sizes including bedsitters, 1, 2 and 3 bedroomed units to suit your needs. Rentals or life rights are available. There is also a frail care offering long term care and short term respite stays.
At Mbango Valley residents are encouraged to live an active and social life. There are bowling and croquet greens, a swimming pool and a putting green. Added to this there is an active entertainments division putting on activities such as braais, bingo, musical shows, wine tastings and quiz evenings to name a few. Buses provide transport to the local shopping malls on a weekly basis and other outside activities are also arranged with transport provided.
The South Coast of Kwazulu Natal boasts gorgeous beaches with a wealth of ocean life and marine activities and Mbango Valley is situated just outside of Port Shepstone, close to the beaches and malls.
To book your place in paradise contact Roween on 039 6825251 or email: housing@mbango.org.za or look on Mbango’s website www.mbango.org.za
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DOGON
Atlantic
021 433 2580
www.dogongroup.com
RHONDA
Cape Town Office 082 448 7795 Email: rrpsales@mweb.co.za www.rhondaraadproperties.co.za
SHELLEY
KZN Office 082 412 4463 Email: hello@shelley.co.za www.shelley.co.za
DOGON
021 433 2580
CAPE WINELANDS Nicho 072 601 1772 Hannes 066 476 1890 sales@aandewijnlanden.co.za viognier.aandewijnlanden.co.za
SERENITY
KZN, South Coast Office 073 142 8292 Email: home@serenityhills.co.za www.serenityhills.co.za
DOGON
Southern
021 671 0258
PETER MASKELL AUCTIONEERS
KZN Office: 033 397 1190 Email: info@maskell.co.za www.bidlive.maskell.co.za
WYTHAM
KENILWORTH, CAPE TOWN 063 707 2886 sales@wytham.estate www.wytham.estate
DOGON
Western
021 556 5600
433 2580
BALWIN
Ballito Office 084 788 1020 Email: michelle@balwin.co.za www.balwin.co.za
www.iolproperty.co.za
PAARL, BOLAND,
Werner Pieters 082 363 6089 Marius Pieters 082 566 0853 sales@grootparysestate.co.za www.grootparysestate.co.za