Business Day Home Front 18 November 2016

HOMEFRONT 13 OCTOBER2016 2016 WWW .BDLIVE.CO.ZA WWW.BDLIVE.CO.ZA 18 NOVEMBER

MUST READ

Forkfulls of farm at FABER PAGE 2

Hamburg: hope for investors PAGE 7

Amdec’s CEO on humble starts PAGE 13

How property managers help PAGE 16

Sales appeal of sustainable power Estate agents and developers around the country are seeing an uptick in the demand for homes with sustainable power supplies

Rondebosch / Newlands, CPT From R6.31 million all inclusive Upper Kenilworth, Cape Town Modern and stylish secure gated development. South entry, north facing homes with spectacular views of Table Mountain. Open plan living leading to patio and manageable gardens. Three bedrooms, main en-suite plus family bathroom. Double garage with direct access. For further details please contact Lesley Payne 082 455 4808 or Donovan Gilbert 071 886 1036.

Each office is independently owned and operated

Asking R15.95 million

Set in one of the prettiest roads in the area & close to all leading schools, this beautiful home offers a wonderful blend of old & new, where charm & character meet contemporary style and sophistication. Its many features include versatile accommodation, a fabulous indoor / outdoor entertainment flow & exceptional security. Contact: Barbara Manning 083 407 3656

Great Brak River, Garden Route

Asking R7.75 million Douglasdale, Sandton

Positioned on a 2.9Ha smallholding, this European-styled contemporary home with imported finishes oozes sophistication. Built to the highest standards it offers unfettered views of mountains, natural fynbos, valleys and Indian Ocean below. 100% solar with all the services and amenities for modern living. Contact: Peter Barton-Hill 084 505 0577 Web Ref: 1938273

www.sothebysrealty.co.za

PAGE 10

Asking R3.495 million

Grand & gracious magnificent home in sought after complex. 4 Beds, 2 full baths, large study. Gourmet kitchen onto family room leading onto patio.

Separate dining room & lounge leading onto large private garden, 2nd covered patio overlooking pool. Double garage. Contact: James Christelis 082 416 5343 Ryan Rodda 076 979 4330 Office: 011 465 1187 Web ref: 1853551

HOMEFRONT LIFESTYLE

Farm to table Although it is early days, FABER restaurant’s philosophy of crafting edible bounty is off to a promising start. Chef Eric Bullpitt explains why Paarl is the place WORDS: KIM MAXWELL :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

W

e wanted a short and catchy name that explained what we were and that connected us to Avondale Estate. FABER is not just about being craftsmen: it’s our love for the land and our connection to it … to the chickens that run in the field. My grandpa had a self-sustaining farm in Rustenburg, so we’d go into the garden if we wanted a salad. Johnathan Grieve, Avondale’s owner, also toils in the vineyards here, so the connection fits. There is nothing more exciting than eating food that has a story.

I’ve always thought of Paarl as that little town just past Stellenbosch.

Yet we are just off the N1, closer to Cape Town than to Stellenbosch. FABER is opposite Boschenmeer Golf Estate and Val de Vie. There are people with money to spend. We drove around and thought maybe we could do something special.

Not simple food, but

simplicity. Avondale wines are farmed biodynamically so our meat and vegetables won’t come from here primarily. But the idea is to get a lot of our produce from the farm in the next few years, from eggs to broiler chickens and pasturereared organic beef. Our menu includes what is available in the field, what is on the farm, what is good right now. We serve Avondale’s biodynamic red and white wines, and will offer other labels once we are licensed.

Most of us have lost touch with what farming used to be. We want

to showcase Avondale’s chickens and duck and hen eggs from the farm “eggmobile”. We had a cow that lived its life eating grass from the Avondale field. I had a taste — it’s phenomenal how different it was from feedlot animals. The chickens running here can’t be poached quickly; they have to be slow-cooked.

Chicken isn’t usually an exciting option but this is not

Avondale happy chicken, sweet lupin, wild radish and wild mustard flowers

“You are able to experience the whole field to fork concept in a relaxed and enjoyable environment” Johnathan Grieve, proprietor, Avondale Estate

HOMEFRONT your average chicken. It is skinny, so the meat is wilder, almost like guinea fowl. That makes it a special chicken in my eyes. We call the dish the Avondale happy chicken because it was happy until it met its end.

“The restaurant’s ceiling planks, tables, bar counters and wooden planter boxes were created from stone pines, felled when a fire swept Avondale 15 years ago”

We’re not here to reinvent our cooking. The

style is technical but not overcomplicated: a few key ingredients on the plate.

The roasted Karoo lamb shoulder is one of the most rustic things we do — it’s so perfect and tender in what it is. It’s served with pumpkin seed pesto, wilted greens and herbs. The menu will always be one page, focused on what is available.

I don’t think we will ever serve a crème brûlée. You might find a soufflé on our menu but with a creative component to it: fermented banana and chocolate, or maybe peaches and beer. Our popular cream cheese and blueberries dessert (cream cheese and honey sorbet, with coconut crumble and blueberry macaron) was inspired by blueberry cheesecake.

PRODUCED BY TIMES MEDIA PROPERTY PUBLISHING Unit G4, Old Castle Brewery, 6 Beach Road, Woodstock, 7925 021 447 7130

A EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: Kim Maxwell Creative Director: Mark Peddle Designer: Craig D’Oliveira

FABER BY DESIGN Avondale Estate practises biodynamic and organic farming to produce red and white wines that are true expressions of the soils on which they are produced. The 300ha Paarl property has 50ha planted to plum orchards and 70ha planted to red and white cultivars. The rest is pastureland and mountains.

concept in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.”

Grieve’s “soil is life” ethos underscores the farm as a dynamic living system.

FABER is designed to capitalise on that. Says Grieve: “We want to grow as much as possible from Avondale in a holistic, organic and biodynamic way.

You are able to experience the whole field to fork

Built in a style similar to the farm’s original 1700 Cape Dutch homestead, FABER is inside the building that holds Avondale’s cellar and wine-tasting area. The restaurant’s high-volume ceilings, terracotta tiles and cement floors contrast with a modern open kitchen finished with Moroccan mosaic tiles.

With that in mind, the farm vegetable garden has been extended to 1,000m² and will potentially expand to 10,000m² over time. The old garden is the restaurant’s new herbary, plus there is another 3ha of edible wild plants, flowers and fruit.

Interior designer Annie Dower was briefed to create modern country elegance in the space. There is freshness in hanging planter boxes filled with farm greenery and botanical prints liven some chair backs. Plates and bowls from The Potter’s Gallery in Kleinmond sit alongside Schott Zwiesel stemware. The art is by local painter Scats Esterhuyse.

The restaurant’s ceiling planks, tables, bar counters and wooden planter boxes were created from stone pines, felled when a fire swept Avondale 15 years ago.

Grieve’s family treasures have also been incorporated.

Says Grieve: “As you walk into FABER there is an old teak desk that belonged to my grandfather, which he used in his first factory.” Two large wooden railway station arches were retrieved from John Grieve senior’s shed.

One has been repurposed in the wine tasting area; the other is now an accent piece above FABER’s bar.

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Bedrooms 6 / Bathrooms 6 / Garages 3 / Classic home set on an acre with mountain views.Timeless elegance and comfortable living are the keynotes of this warm and welcoming home. Spacious living rooms lead to a sunny patio, pool area and beautiful garden. The eat-in kitchen is an entertainers’ delight, complete with scullery and walk-in pantry. The home has 6 bedrooms all en suite, comprising of 3 upstairs, 2 downstairs bedrooms as well as a well-appointed cottage attached to the house.

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A unique opportunity to acquire this tranquil retreat with breathtaking mountain views set on 7 635 m² of prime magical park-like land with potential for dual-access and sub-division. Simply add your personal touch to turn this impeccably maintained, generously proportioned, warm family home into your families’ haven of happiness.

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HOMEFRONT fewer than 25% are over 60.

The population is expected to grow only modestly in the next decade or so, from 1.817-million in 2015 to 1.854-million in 2030.

Hamburg is also Germany’s largest trading centre, with the highest gross domestic product per capita in the country and third in the EU at roughly €50,000 (R751,000). The service sector dominates the economy making up 84%, but other leading industries include port and logistics, life sciences, aviation, media and IT, as well as trade with Asia. Unemployment is relatively low at only 7.6%.

EDUCATION

INTERNATIONAL

Hamburg, city of green When people look at investing in Germany, they think Berlin; but Hamburg has a lot to offer — and right now promises good growth prospects WORDS: GEORGINA GUEDES :: PHOTOS: ISTOCK

INVEST IN HAFENCITY IP Global’s Global Real Estate Outlook lists Hamburg’s Hafencity as one of the more exciting investment opportunities in Hamburg. It is a €10.4bn regeneration project of an old warehouse area overlooking the Elbe that, when complete, will comprise 50% workspace, 30% residential and 20% culture, leisure, retail and education.

It will offer 45,000 new jobs and 6,000 residential units. Many companies, including Unilever, BP and Der Speigel, have or will be relocating their headquarters to this area.

Because it is built on the riverfront, it is susceptible to flooding, but rather than ruin residents’ and workers’ views with dykes, the development has introduced some of the most innovative floodprevention regulations and designs in the world.

The development will be completed by 2025.

S

ub-Saharan Africans have a good investment appetite for Hamburg, according to a report by the Global Real Estate Outlook, composed by property investment firm IP Global.

“Its property prices have increased by an impressive 40% in the past five years, with strong demand putting the pressure on — exceeding supply by as much as 33% in 2014,” says George Radford, director of Africa for IP Global.

He says that further good news for potential property investors in the city is that rents are predicted to rise by 9.6% by 2018. Hamburg also offers a lower property tax of 4.5% compared with Berlin’s 6%.

But growth potential is not all that Hamburg has going for it. The city is located on the River Elbe, borders on the Baltic and North seas, has numerous canals and surrounds the vast Alster Lake. As an important harbour town, it experienced some bombing in the Second

World War, but because it would prove useful to the British after occupation, it was largely spared.

The result is that the city features a blend of elegant old houses, museums and palaces juxtaposed with experimental modern architecture.

GREEN NETWORK The city also incorporates many natural elements.

According to the Global Property Guide website, almost half of Hamburg is covered by forest, fields, water and green spaces, including some 1,400 parks.

A plan is under way to create a green network in Hamburg, connecting all these green spaces with walking and cycling paths, providing opportunities for residents to picnic and swim all around the city.

Hamburg also aims to be car free by 2034.

“The idea with the green network is to connect the green rings with the parks and public areas by building closed walking and cycling paths,” wrote journalist Aleksandar

“Further good news for potential property investors in the city is that rents are predicted to rise by 9.6% by 2018” George Radford, director of Africa, IP Global

According to the website HowToGermany.com, while state education is of good quality and free in Germany, it is of course conducted in German (although language bridging courses are offered).

For foreign families wanting to make a home in Hamburg, there are many private schools, although these come at a cost.

IP Global says that of the 70,000 higher education students in Hamburg, 10% are international. They attend one of 19 institutions for higher education. The University of Hamburg is the third largest university in Germany and has more than 40,000 students.

Other notable institutions include the Hafencity Uni, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management and the International School of Management.

NUMBERS Mishkov in an article for DocumentaryTube.com.

“These green paths will be isolated from motor traffic, and should make Hamburg the champion in the area of green metropolis.

“When finished, the green network will cover more than 7,000 hectares.”

The green network is supported by an extensive public transport system with six suburban train lines and nine regional lines, with local trains operating all night long during the weekend and public holidays. There is also an extensive bus network, six harbour ferry lines, and 80 stations from which travellers can borrow a bike for free for the first 30 minutes. Hamburg is an hour and 40 minutes by train from Berlin and has its own international airport.

JOBS Hamburg has an extensive and youthful population. It is the most populous city in Europe that is not a capital city and, according to the IP Global report, a third of its residents are under 30 and

In terms of property investment, IP Global’s research shows that flat prices increased by 14% in 2015 and by 40% in the past five years. The average price of new-build flats is €4,150/m 2, and there is a 33% shortfall in the number of flats.

Hamburg was rated sixth in PricewaterhouseCoopers’ list of Most Active Markets for Real Estate Investment in Europe, and rents are expected to rise 9.6% by 2018.

From a taxation perspective, entry costs are 6% of the property price and there is a 4.5% transfer tax, a 1% notary fee and a 0.5% land registry fee. If you stay invested for more than 10 years, no capital gains tax comes into effect.

All in all, Hamburg offers good investment growth prospects in a bustling cosmopolitan city that is rich in historic beauty alongside progressive architecture and greening policies. Little wonder it scores well on the list of cities in which southern Africans are investing.

FOCUS ON RONDEBOSCH OVAL

ADVERTORIAL

Game on Live the club lifestyle in luxury and comfort at the Rondebosch Oval WORDS AND IMAGES: SUPPLIED

R

awson Developers is the well-known, award-winning creator of more than 50 projects over three decades. These include highlights such as the Beaumont of Claremont, the Premier of Newlands and the Rondebosch — all hugely successful sold-out projects in their own right.

Rawson Developers now brings you the Rondebosch Oval: 41 high quality contemporary homes within an estate located in a thriving Cape Town suburb.

It offers a world within a village and a club lifestyle.

UNIQUE CONCEPT There is nothing quite like the Rondebosch Oval anywhere in Cape Town.

It is unique. Major road networks are only minutes away. Quick access to the airport? No problem.

The Rondebosch Oval has generous open and green spaces. It offers access to all the amenities that a busy family, active retirees or serious investors could need. And it promises exclusive sports club membership. This estate is for people who aim to live life to the full. Game on.

SECURITY You get the freedom to relax and let go. There are top-notch security systems at the perimeter, inside the estate and within each home. Active and passive behind-the-scenes technology keeps you and

your visitors safe 24/7.

These systems are all backed by smartly dressed and wide awake personnel who provide a physical security presence, control access and conduct patrols discreetly, ensuring maximum privacy.

TOUCH OF GREEN Rondebosch Oval is built on the grounds of a well-known and active suburban sports club. Our masterplan follows strict design parameters that make a healthy outdoor environment our number one priority. With paved streets, mature trees in abundance and indigenous landscaping, who could ask for more?

Wherever you are situated on the estate, Table Mountain looms in the west with Rhodes Memorial and the university at its base.

And the distant purpleblue of the Helderberg and the winelands beckon in the east.

LUXURY Kick off your shoes and relax inside this superb estate while enjoying its world-class features.

Home owners get exclusive membership to the well-known Rondebosch Sports Club.

It offers premier league cricket, club facilities, gym, swimming pool and bowls.

Its historical roots date back to the Marist schools established in the 1860s, and it will be revitalised by way of a vibrant new

FOCUS ON RONDEBOSCH OVAL

clubhouse, renovated cricket oval, bowling green, swimming pool and a viewing deck.

Rondebosch Oval offers safe, shared spaces for you and your visitors to enjoy. It has all you need to entertain at home or in your village with like-minded people.

There is also fibre optic high-speed internet connectivity. And if you have children at school, some of the best schools and university in the

country are a five-minute drive away.

GREEN LIVING Green living need not be basic living. Rondebosch Oval minimises its environmental footprint via intelligent sustainability features.

Each home, appropriately orientated for the southern latitudes, makes optimal use of natural light indoors, minimising electricity consumption for lighting.

Energy-efficient features include LED lights and LED street lighting, water heating and insulated geysers. Well-insulated interiors keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. Double-glazed windows are optional.

These save energy and reduce noise from the outside.

Low flow waterconserving fittings allow home owners to save money and consider the

environment. The gardens are water-sensitive and the landscaping and plant life is water-wise. Rondebosch Oval also recycles.

LIFESTYLE Home owners can select timeless architectural styles and a range of décor options.

Every element of your new home is designerfinished to the highest standards. We pay attention to quality, detail

and material. There are several optional upgrades to the selections presented, which will be discussed with any buyers.

Views of the mountain, or overlooking the sports facilities. What grabs you?

Be an early buyer and secure the prime units.

Each unit has a secure double garage behind a cobblestone apron. There is also ample visitors’ parking available at a central location.

NEIGHBOURHOOD This estate has it all, but if you venture away you will find almost anything you may want within a five to 10-minute walk or drive.

Schools — some of the finest in the country — and the University of Cape Town Restaurants Shops Sports stadiums Clubs Jogging, walking, cycling and exercising at the Rondebosch Common Beat the traffic — the airport is a quick 14km drive away

INVESTMENT Rondebosch is a stable suburb with an economically thriving population. Good property price growth has been experienced over many years.

GET IN TOUCH Rawson Developers Tel: 021 658 7100, 079 691 9661, e-mail: sales@ rawsondevelopers.co.za rawson-developers.co.za

HOMEFRONT GREEN ENERGY

Sales appeal of sustainable power Estate agents and developers around the country are seeing an uptick in the demand for homes with sustainable power supplies WORDS: GEORGINA GUEDES :: PHOTOS: ISTOCK AND SUPPLIED

T

he promise of living off the grid is no longer something that appeals only to farmers and hippies; it is now also attractive to big city property buyers who want to minimise their impact on the planet and who are drawn to the

“Installing a 5kVA hybrid system, including panels and batteries, in an average house costs about R140,000” Miles Oates, CEO, Build Africa

convenience of managing their own power supplies.

While true off-the-grid homes or smallholdings are not reliant on government utilities at all, many property owners and developers are implementing hybrid solutions that allow a switchover to the power

mains at times of high usage — for the simple reason that nobody wants to be without power when they need it.

BUYERS Ling Dobson, the Pam Golding Properties area manager for Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, says that in recent years she has seen

HOMEFRONT

Umnyama Ikhaya

“It certainly makes properties easier to sell, but not at this stage more expensive” Ling Dobson, area manager Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, Pam Golding Properties

an increase in home buyers in her area looking for properties with sustainable power-generation features.

“There is no specific type of buyer looking for these kinds of properties,” she says. “The interest comes from people who want to live off the land and foreigners who want to invest in SA, right up to high-end professionals who either want to buy holiday homes or do a weekly commute while their wives and kids live down here.”

Her clients Mike and Fatima Blake started house hunting in 2013.

“I am English and my wife is Iranian. We were living in Geneva but came on holiday here and fell in love with it, so we decided to look for a home to buy for my early retirement,” says Mike Blake.

They made an offer on a house in Pezula Private Estate, with solar water heating and grey water reclamation, whereby used household water is treated and used for irrigation on the estate.

OUTAGES “We had installed solar panels in our home in Switzerland because we believe it’s important to get power from sustainable rather than coal-based or nuclear sources, and when we got here, we started

Power Up Supply system

experiencing load shedding, so we installed more solar panels to get fully powered up here as well,” Blake says.

“Of course, there hasn’t been any load shedding since we put the system in!”

The Blakes’ power system is fully off the grid in summer, but switches to the municipal power supply occasionally in winter, when cloud cover prevents the solar panels from charging the batteries.

Dobson says that while houses are more marketable and appealing because of their sustainability features, this does not yet add a premium to the sales price. “It certainly makes properties easier to sell, but not at this stage more expensive. We’re hoping to reach a point where we can charge a premium,” she says.

RETURNS The cost of a full solar installation is still quite high and generally only delivers a return for people who are invested in their property for the long term.

“People are being methodical about it,” says Miles Oates, CEO of Build Africa, a subsidiary of which sells home power solution Power Up. “They are weighing up the costs against the benefits.”

These benefits include independence from

the municipal grid, the ultimate cost savings and environmental responsibility.

He says: “Installing a 5kVA hybrid system, including panels and batteries, in an average house costs about R140,000.” While this does not necessarily cut all the costs of a monthly electricity bill — about R2,000-R3,000 — it does reduce the household overheads and pays for itself in about five to six years.

SALES While a great deal of Oates’ work comes from freestanding residential installations, he says many developments are now offering sustainable energy sources as a leading sales feature.

For example, at Acorn Creek, which is billed to be the single biggest green estate in Africa, investors can buy homes that produce their own power. They come equipped with a Power Up Supply 3kVA system, comprising six panels that generate 1,500W of solar power. Buyers can upgrade to 5kVA by installing another six panels to provide 3,000W at a cost of R40,000.

“That gets capitalised to their bond, working out to roughly an extra R400 a month, but saving them about R1,500 in electricity

Acorn Creek

costs. They are immediately R1,100 better off — so this installation differentiates the development and is a key selling point,” he says.

ESTATES Numerous other estates and houses in suburbs around the country are offering similar sustainable benefits, including Baronetcy Estate in Plattekloof, Cape Town, and Greenhill in Waterkloof, Pretoria, as well as a number of homes in Parkhurst, Johannesburg.

The planned R14bn Blue Rock Village car-free livework-play development outside Somerset West is being built to green principles. The construction of 64 flats during the first residential phase is planned for January 2017.

Their energy- and watersaving features include solar power, double-glazed windows, insulated walls and floors, and watersaving shower-to-sprinkler systems, as well as underfloor water climateregulating systems.

It is clear this is a growing area of the property market and while the costs of implementation do not yet translate directly into an increased price for sellers, the draws of sustainability, grid independence and cost controls are proving particularly appealing for property buyers.

MICROPOD HOUSING Umnyama Ikhaya is a sustainable modular housing company that builds pre-fabricated micropods in a variety of finishes, designed to offer buyers an off-the-grid solution. The pods, made from repurposed shipping containers, integrate gas, wind and solar power, waterless toilets, a green growing façade, rainwater harvesting systems, inverters, batteries and solar pumps so that owners are self-sustaining.

The pods are created in Paarl, but can be railed or shipped anywhere in SA. Their alternative building method, using 95% less energy than melting down a traditional container, is a carbon-neutral housing solution officially accepted by the government as an alternative building form.

Umnyama Ikhaya founder John Venter says the pods have multiple applications, from microhomes and solar-powered garage pods to new property developments and small hospitals. Umnyama Ikhaya is building solar-powered off-thegrid classrooms and bathrooms for Camps Bay High School, Cape Town, by March 2017. The modular pods range from R359,000-R369,000.

thirtyfour/7565/Homefront

0800 99 22 33 enelenergy.co.za

Energy Management

PV

Battery

HOMEFRONT PROPERTY PROFILE

Family ties

Amdec CEO James Wilson is following in his father’s footsteps, taking giant strides in forging new partnerships and building landmark developments

WORDS: LUCINDA JORDAAN :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

I

t has almost become de rigeur for companies to champion family values and maintain an image of holding fast to traditions.

But it is rare for a corporation to make this a major part of its ethos, and even rarer to meet a CEO for whom it is an intrinsic way of life.

James Wilson has much to be proud of: as head of national property development company Amdec he is at the forefront of one of the country’s biggest multinational property partnerships.

The company has secured a R3bn agreement with Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel group, to develop five Marriott-branded hotels in Johannesburg and Cape Town within the next two years.

While he acknowledges the significance of such a partnership, it is the one he entered into with his father, John, 27 years ago that Wilson singles out as his greatest achievement.

“I don’t like to look back on life and reflect on what has made an impact on me as I still feel young and still look forward to achieving much more, but I certainly take a lot of pride in starting a business with my father.

It’s not easy to be in family business; but by and large, we worked well together,” he says.

home. “I looked at career opportunities and realised that my passion was for real estate. In 1989, I formed a joint partnership with my father, who was developing single residential houses at the time,” says the father of four, whose daily highlight is spending time with his children.

DIVERSITY Today, Amdec is a leading developer of new urban lifestyle precincts with a diverse portfolio that includes the Melrose Arch mixed-use precinct, the Evergreen Lifestyles brand of six retirement villages and XtraSpace self-storage facilities, among other landmark residential and commercial developments.

But the company had a relatively humble start, with very little capital, says Wilson. “Our first office was a converted double garage — there are various wonderful stories about

“We were very fortunate to manage to grow capital and expand”

entrepreneurs around the world who started in their fathers’ garages — and we did so with very small property acquisitions and constructing single residential dwellings.

We were very fortunate to manage to grow capital and expand.”

EXPANSION The implementation of the Sectional Titles Act of 1986 proved a catalyst for Amdec’s growth.

“Prior to that, people did shareblock developments, which were not really popular. So fortunately for us, as we were starting our business and trying to grow, the Sectional Title Act — although very new and unfamiliar to the consumer — was a great opportunity for us to expand our business in that sphere.”

Amdec moved from developing single residential houses to multi-unit blocks of flats, then on to commercial property, constructing about 70% of the offices in Steenberg Office Park, in Cape Town, where it is headquartered.

“We sold them on a sectional title basis and that was a great learning experience; moving into a

RENOVATOR’S SON Property development is very much in the blood, says Wilson, who was born in the UK to a “fairly humble renovator of properties who had also previously joined his father as a partner. From a very early age I have photos and certain vivid memories of walking around building sites and renovation sites.”

Wilson emigrated to SA with his family when he was 16. Despite completing a BCom degree with honours at Rhodes University, then converting to an accountancy degree and qualifying as a chartered accountant, he followed his heart — and it led

AC Hotels by Mariott Cape Town Waterfront will open in 2018

slightly different subsector of the industry, utilising experience and skills we built up in residential to move into commercial.”

MELROSE Then came Melrose Arch.

The 50/50 partnership with Allan Collier and Property Partners in 2005 turned the mixed-use precinct from a bit of a white elephant — “only 80,000m2 had been developed and we had in excess of 225,000m2 that still needed to be developed” — into one of the country’s most profitable real estate assets.

Melrose Arch was the first of a range of mixed-use developments the company has in the pipeline, including the projects with Marriott International at the Yacht Club and Harbour Arch in Cape Town.

“The idea is that this won’t be the only rollout of another Arch. We intend to use that brand to develop a multitude of mixed-use developments in other significant centres throughout Africa. There are a number of African cities that we’ve looked at, but the state of the world economy has made us a bit more realistic about the speed of

“We intend to use that brand to develop a multitude of mixed-use developments in other significant centres throughout Africa”

our expansion.”

It takes a canny business sense to turn a familyowned enterprise built on flipping properties into one of SA’s biggest private property owners, and Wilson’s sense of value is clearly based on a long-term vision that incorporates more than just the bottom dollar.

PARTNERSHIP “Forging relationships is a great reflection of where your business has got to and from a purely business point of view, the partnership with Marriott is fantastic. But it’s also a reinforcement of what we do as a company that a hotel group as large and prestigious as Marriott regard us as their main partner in SA.” While the Amdec Marriott partnership is hardly new, stretching back to when the international company bought out the Protea group to become the continent’s leading hotel chain, it is perhaps notable that Wilson emphasises the family similarities between the two companies as a strong link in their connection.

“What one forgets is that despite the size of Marriott, like us, they also come from a family business. It’s run on family principles and family ethics. Arne (Sorenson, Marriott International CEO) is the first executive who is not part of the family and he was selected because he espouses the same values.

Rubbing shoulders with international CEOs like that and seeing how easily they interact with their staff is inspiring for young CEOs like myself. It’s a good way to run business.”

LIFE AT VAL DE VIE ESTATE At Val de Vie, you’ll discover a vast range of lifestyle offerings and outdoor activities, catering to a diverse group of homeowners, with different interests and pastimes. From jogging trails alongside vineyards and fishing spots along the Berg River, our world famous Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course to exquisite event facilities and an outstanding restaurant on the estate, encapsulated by world-class security, residents are provided with a setting in which to enjoy life to the fullest. In the same way that Val de Vie provides an extensive array of amenities, it offers a collection of home styles to best your taste.

At the heart of Val de Vie, overlooking the pristine polo fields and iconic stables is the Polo Club Restaurant with spectacular views of the mountains and the estate. There is a second restaurant at the Pearl Valley Golf Club with a lovely terrace overlooking the rolling greens of the award winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Residents can enjoy the outdoor rock pool at the Golf Club or the 25m indoor pool at the Val de Vie Gym. There are two fitness centres on the estate and a third in process, all fully equipped and includes two equestrian arenas, two squash courts, 4 floodlit tennis courts, a soccer field and cricket nets.

PROPERTY | EQUESTRIAN & GOLF | SPORTS & LEISURE | RIVER & LAKES | WINE | RESTAURANTS | EVENTS Contact our on-site Sales Team +27 (0) 21 863 6105 property@valdevie.co.za www.capewinelandsproperties.co.za

www.valdevie.co.za | www.pearlvalley.co.za

AT LE DOMAINE

NEW DEVELOPMENT LAUNCHED Stefan Antoni designed homes launched from R3.6m The Vines at Le Domaine offers the best of Val de Vie's lifestyle and security. Located in the heart of the estate, close to all the recreational facilities. This all inclusive offer is perfect for investors and families. Rental options also available.

HOUSE OPTIONS: Avignon Type 1: 177 m² Avignon Type 2: 194 m² Monterey: 226 m² Sonoma: 303 m² Each house includes a landscaped garden, home automation, double glazed windows and a free-standing wood burning combustion fireplace.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a home designed by one of South Africa’s most celebrated architects, Stefan Antoni in the country’s top residential estate.

Come and experience why we call it the Valley of Life

RANKED TOP RESIDENTIAL ESTATE IN SOUTH AFRICA 2015 & 2016 - NEW WORLD WEALTH Safe Home Award in South Africa 2015 Best Multiple Unit Development in South Africa 2013 Ranked Top Residential Estate in South Africa 2015 & 2016

HOMEFRONT

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

When to turn to the experts Skilled property management companies take the difficulties out of being a landlord, and they can increase your return on investment WORDS: NICOLA JENVEY :: PHOTOS: ISTOCK

E

very investment requires dedicated skills and focus to grow its value and become a wealth-sustaining asset, but when that investment is in bricks and mortar the professionalism must translate into increasing annual yields and capital appreciation.

Enter property management companies, the players dealing directly with prospectors and tenants to save residential and commercial landlords from the worries associated with marketing their properties, collecting rentals, handling maintenance and repair issues, responding to tenant complaints and pursuing evictions if need be.

As independent contractors, property management companies sidestep the hassles associated with employeremployee relationships.

By definition, property management is the

administration of residential, commercial and industrial real estate, including flats, detached houses, shopping centres and industrial estates, on behalf of the owner.

MAXIMISING “Property management endeavours to maximise net income through increasing rental income, reducing vacancies, minimising operating expenses and minimising arrears.

Unlocking a property’s potential requires a combination of experience, expertise and vision,” says Eris Property Group head of investment broking Ari Ben. That raises questions about timing and value: when should a landlord hire a property management company and what value does such a company add to property ownership?

Property Sector Charter Council CEO Portia TauSekati values the sector at R5.8-trillion, with

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MANAGING AGENTS This nonprofit company aims to educate and communicate changes in the sectional title industry, and to improve the efficiency of managing agents and service providers. It offers full and affiliate membership. nama.org.za

HOMEFRONT “The ideal scenario is a tenant mix providing a secure income source being as close as possible to market-related rental”

attract customers, but offset that drawcard with lower rentals.

Other tenants pay higher rentals to counteract the amount paid by the anchor tenant. Breytenbach says that in Claremont currently, commercial property rates are R180/m² for standalone premises, but near a national tenant they can be R220-R250/m² and in exceptional cases R500/m².

“The ideal scenario is a tenant mix providing a secure income source being as close as possible to market-related rental. Thus property managers must combine a national tenant providing stability with higher paying non-national tenants to maximise the property’s return,” he says.

Looking forward, Redefine Properties CEO Andrew Konig says SA’s weaker economic outlook continues to add pressure to commercial and office rentals, but a well-located office block with the right offering should attract tenants.

Leon Breytenbach, commercial division national manager, Rawson Property Group

OFFICE SPACE another R520bn worth of land officially zoned for commercial and residential development. Commercial property is worth R1.3trillion, of which R790bn is held by corporate SA, R300bn in real estate investment trusts, R130bn in unlisted funds and R50bn by life and pension funds.

Within this environment, retail property accounts for R534bn, office properties R357bn, industrial properties R281bn and hotels and other properties R94bn.

Residential property remains the leading ownership, valued at about R3.9-trillion.

RESIDENTIAL Typically, property companies offer management services for residential and commercial investments.

But when should

landlords appoint property management companies or individuals? Writing for online legal publisher nolo. com, attorney-author and internationally recognised expert on apartment topics Ron Leshnower says that while hiring a property management company has advantages, using one can be expensive and landlords should consider both sides before making any decision.

Addressing residential landlords, he says appointing a management company is appropriate when a landlord owns numerous properties; does not live near their rental property; is disinterested in the hands-on management or has limited time to devote to managing the investment, specifically when being a landlord is not their full-time employment.

Trafalgar Property and

Premier Island living in Harbour Island World class Marina 304 m² Penthouse with capacious 196 m² roof terrace.

3 Bedroom with panoramic Ocean, Marina & Mountain Views. Large 15 meter mooring included.

R 8 300 000 VAT incl. – No transfer duty Very unique 209 m² North-facing 3 bedroom simplex apartment with Sea & Waterfront Views. Two large covered balconies overlooking your own private 12 meter mooring.

R 4 900 000 VAT incl. – No transfer duty Boardwalk for easy access to 4-Star Hotel, Spa & restaurants.

The Cape’s best kept secret only 50 km from Cape Town

PJ Lemmer: 083 444 3322

Office: 021 856 2000

www.harbourislandproperties.co.za

Financial Services Group MD Andrew Schaefer says key to sound residential property management is reporting monthly creditor payments, including utility bills and rentals, against the budget. The company’s management services analyse the portfolio’s inherent qualities and potential.

“A strong focus on accurate budgeting, detailed financial management reporting and governance excellence underpin Trafalgar’s residential property management services,” he says.

Broll Property Group group CEO Malcolm Horne says the way investors manage their properties today affects their future value, a concept that underpins how the company manages the property

portfolio under its control.

“Broll’s expertise in property management has consistently delivered superior returns, even in tough market conditions.

Our commitment to proactive portfolio-based property management through planned building life cycle maintenance, utilities management and the use of technology is focused entirely on unlocking the potential and long-term value of clients’ properties,” he says.

COMMERCIAL Rawson Property Group commercial division national manager Leon Breytenbach says commercial properties can host a variety of tenants, but success depends on finding a mix that works for everyone. As household names, national retailers

“The landscape for office space is changing and facilities that allow an office worker to get on with their daily lives with as little hassle as possible will continue to be in demand.

“A good relationship with tenants, their representatives and brokers remains crucial as these trends unfold and those companies that fail to maintain these high levels of trust and delivery will struggle,” he says.

When hiring a management company, Leshnower advises residential or commercial landlords should get recommendations from their colleagues and the local residents’ association, search online for professional directories and interview prospective companies before handing over the keys.

FOCUS ON KIDD’S BEACH

K ADVERTORIAL

Coastal hideaway Kidd’s Beach Lifestyle Estate offers the best of both worlds — modern-day amenities and the relaxed charm of a seaside home WORDS AND IMAGES: SUPPLIED

idd’s Beach Lifestyle Estate in the Eastern Cape is about 15 minutes from the East London Airport and 28km from East London CBD on the coastal R72 route. It is the first lifestyle estate bordering the Mcantsi River, with natural plants, birds and wildlife in the estate.

When you choose Kidd’s Beach Lifestyle Estate to be your new home, you choose peace of mind, quality of life and a luxurious lifestyle with first of a kind amenities in the Eastern Cape.

Nature lovers can enjoy walks on paved pathways leading to open-air entertainment areas next to the river. The river gives access to the beach by canoe and small rowing boats. Nature lovers can also enjoy indigenous plants and trees inside the estate, as well as along the river on planned paths.

Fish eagles and other bird species will be seen from environmentally friendly huts that will be built along the river front.

The estate has full title houses to choose from, with different plan types depending on the stand you buy — one-, two- and threebedroom units with single or double garages. There are also apartments to choose from for buyers who do not want the upkeep of gardens.

SECURITY

“Nature lovers can enjoy walks on paved pathways leading to open-air entertainment areas next to the river”

All houses are fitted with hi-tech alarm systems that can be activated to alert estate personnel in the case of personal, home security or medical emergencies.

The estate has a state of the art security system, ensuring comfort and peace of mind for all residents.

Kidd’s Beach Lifestyle Estate consists of 24hour security with access control; 24-hour security patrols; CCTV cameras; electrified fencing; a clubhouse with amenities; and a healthcare centre.

HEALTH The healthcare centre will comprise of a 24hour healthcare facility with qualified medical personnel to provide residents with premium, compassionate care.

Safety and security at the estate is a top priority and residents can rest assured knowing that the estate’s interior and perimeter is secured 24 hours a day.

The well-appointed clubhouse will consist of a coffee shop, a gym, a library, a hair and beauty salon, a dining room, a convenience shop, hi-tech workstations for active or semi-retired businessmen, and a boardroom with conference facilities, as well as an entertainment area with function facilities.

For the health conscious, the vitality wing of the clubhouse will offer numerous exciting options to stay fit and happily entertained with an equipped gym.

The coffee shop will be a gathering place for a get-together with friends and family as it will cater for all residents, young and old, with state of the art equipment.

Kidd’s Beach Lifestyle Estate is a first for the Eastern Cape in a pristine part of the protected Eastern Cape coastal environment that is also close to airports, shopping facilities, excellent medical facilities and some of the most awarded tourism and holiday destinations in southern Africa and the world.

The estate offers a first for couples or individuals who want to move to a secure estate earlier in their lives, were they can still live, work and make friendships in an environment that has the facilities that allow them to retire later in a community of friends, with all amenities at their disposal in a beautiful, natural environment.

The launch of Kidd’s Beach Lifestyle Estate is planned for December 2016.

GET IN TOUCH Tel 082 558 0416 or e-mail: marketing@kiddsbeachlifestyleestate.co.za kiddsbeachlifestyleestate.co.za

The retirement you’ve earned.

Situated in the Cape winelands, Zevenwacht Lifestyle Estate shares its name with one of South Africa’s pre-eminent wine estates. Epitomising South Africa’s abundant natural beauty, this region offers spectacular views, temperate weather and an endless array of activities to explore.

Luxury Retirement Living

Medical Assistance

Lifestyle Apartments from r949 900

Exclusive Facilities

Lifestyle Homes from r3 199 900

Monday - Saturday: View by appointment

082 656 2852 | 082 441 6031

Sundays: On Show 14:00 - 17:00

Email: shani@linetteteepe.co.za

Z e v e n w a c h t - C a p e To w n

zevenwacht-lifestyle-estate.co.za

The images, perspectives and finishes shown are merely impressions of the proposed development and are therefore subject to change at the developer’s discretion. The developer will not be held liable for any changes.

HOMEFRONT PROPERTY NEWS

SA’s top 10 property hubs These places were revealed as the country’s most popular areas for property buyers WORDS: BRIDGET MCNULTY

W

hen it comes to property sales, there are a few markers that show how popular an area is. Private Property analysed those that have accumulated

the highest number of views this year.

Midrand led the field, followed by Roodepoort, and Sandton and Bryanston, all in Johannesburg;

Pretoria East; Fourways, Sunninghill and Lonehill; Centurion West; Port Elizabeth; Cape Town’s southern suburbs; Centurion East and Northern Pretoria.

MIDRAND Midrand’s central location and laidback lifestyle makes it appealing to a wide variety of buyers, and large corporates such as Vodacom and Cell C offer plenty of employment. A typical property is a three-bedroom house for R1.75m.

PROPERTY TYPE

MEDIAN ASKING PRICE

House

R2.285m

Flat/apartment

R723,500

Complex

R1.182m

SANDTON AND BRYANSTON (NORTH) Sandton is the business gateway into Africa for many large corporations and has a vibrant, modern lifestyle. It is the richest square mile in Africa. A typical property in Sandton is a four-bedroom house for R5.5m.

PROPERTY TYPE

MEDIAN ASKING PRICE

House

R5.363m

Flat/apartment

R1.99m

Complex

R2.480m

CENTURION WEST Centurion West offers country-style living close to the major hubs of Gauteng. The property market offers really good value to buyers and a typical property in the area is a three-bedroom house for R1.779m.

PROPERTY TYPE

MEDIAN ASKING PRICE

House

R2.129m

Flat/apartment

R740,000

Complex

R1.18m

PORT ELIZABETH Port Elizabeth has excellent infrastructure, a good harbour, quality educational institutes and great beaches, as well as an abundance of property options. It is increasingly popular with investors because it offers some of the best rental returns in the country. Property is affordably priced with a typical three-bedroom house costing a mere R1.1m.

PROPERTY TYPE

MEDIAN ASKING PRICE

House

R1.352m

Flat/apartment

R570,000

Complex

R930,000

SOUTHERN SUBURBS, CAPE TOWN The southern suburbs of Cape Town are perennially desirable. Property is on the expensive side, and constant demand has led to continually rising prices. A typical home is a three-bedroom house for R4.595m.

PROPERTY TYPE

MEDIAN ASKING PRICE

House

R6.872m

Flat/apartment

R1.62m

Complex

R2.68m

Source: Private Property

Woodstock appeal at WEX One

W

EX One, a residential and retail project by developers Signatura and Indigo Properties, owners of the Old Biscuit Mill and Woodstock Exchange, will bring 217 flats and more than 1,500m 2 of retail space to the creative hub of Cape Town’s Woodstock. Construction starts in May 2017 and should finish in 2018.

Designed by Vivid Architects, there will be two full floors and two half levels of parking. WEX One is directly opposite and closely linked to the creative business community of the Woodstock Exchange on Albert Road.

The residential units,

mainly north-facing, will have views of the mountain, city and harbour. They range from 42m² studios for R1.4m to two-bedroom units spanning 70m²92m². Urban development zone benefits offer tax savings to buyers.

“We have gradually been buying former industrial buildings in this location,” says Jody Aufrichtig, cofounder of Indigo Properties.

“While we have extensive local knowledge of the Woodstock neighbourhood, there is no-one who understands residential development better and has more experience in quality residential developments than John Rabie (founder

of Signatura). This is a very high growth area that is much in demand.”

Vivid Architects associate Charles Louw says the WEX One design represents a “contemporary and contextual response to the traditional brick warehouses” in the area. “It will adopt the brick, glass and steel of the rail-side industrial warehouses, reformed into a contemporary aesthetic, while still aiming to retain a classic, timeless appeal.”

Features include fibre optic internet, 24-hour security and relaxing internal garden spaces, as well as an on-site pool, gym and laundry.

HOMEFRONT

Landmark properties on auction

S

everal landmark commercial properties in Johannesburg and Cape Town are to be auctioned by Broll Auctions and Sales in Johannesburg.

These include Absa House on Cape Town’s St George’s Mall. In Johannesburg, Nedbank Corner on Jorissen and Biccard streets and Anchor House on the corner of Biccard and Juta streets, both in Braamfontein; and The Mills and the historic Silos, both in Newtown, will be auctioned.

Measuring almost

10,000m 2, Absa house is in a prime location with sweeping views from the upper floors and parking for 38 vehicles.

Says Broll Auctions and Sales CEO Norman Raad: “This property is ideal for corporate offices or, as is the prevailing trend in the heart of Cape Town’s highly successful live, work, play central city, eminently suitable for a magnificent residential conversion.”

The well-known Braamfontein and Newtown buildings are expected

to be an attraction for all residential, student and commercial property developers, he says.

“Prominently positioned, Nedbank Corner stands out in Braamfontein as a meaningful investment opportunity offering good retail and commercial potential.”

Anchor House is suitable for almost any property investor with a vision. It presents an opportunity for a student conversion in a high demand area for this kind of accommodation.

“Wedged between the CBD and Fordsburg, The Mills is more than 5,000m 2 in size and an incredible property suitable for trendy offices, restaurants and/or residential accommodation.”

Of significance at the Silos is the income of R1.3m a year the property generates from a massive advertising billboard which is seen from afar, he says.

The auction will take place at noon on November 23 at The Wanderers in Johannesburg.

Absa House

Sandton’s e-bikes proving popular

A

n electronic bike scheme pioneered

by Growthpoint Properties in Sandton Central has proved successful, with more than 1,000 bike share trips taken in the 24 weeks since the pilot project was started.

Growthpoint’s starter fleet comprises 20 bikes and two solar-powered stations — at its headquarters at The Place, 1 Sandton Drive, and at 138 West Street, opposite Sandton Gautrain Station.

Werner van Antwerpen, head of Growthpoint’s specialised sustainability division, says most trips take place on Friday, and the

EAGLE CANYON

NO TRANSFER DUTY. Priced from R2.175 million.

The last townhouse development in Eagle Canyon.

An unmissable opportunity. If you are after the safety of a secure complex combined with the luxury of an elite golf estate, you need not look any further. The golf course is overlooked by one of the finest clubhouses in South Africa, which has world-class facilities. Withdraw to the comfort of your home or unwind at the Eagle Canyon Day Spa and Wellness Centre with state-of-the-art gym facilities; or simply indulge at the Eyrie Restaurant; all located at the clubhouse.

Directions: Christiaan De Wet or Beyers Naude Drive into Blueberry Street. Collect brochure at main entrance and meet us at Whistling Straits.

GAUTENG DEVELOPMENTS Pat Wallace 082 443 8801 • Debby Woodward 082 889 7903 • Office: 011 476 1125 pamgolding.co.za/property-developments

fewest on Monday.

No bikes have gone missing, he says.

“This initiative has proven itself and that there is a demand within Sandton Central for other ways of getting around,” says Van Antwerpen.

The Sandton Central Management District has said all existing cycle lanes for Sandton will go ahead. This follows the announcement by Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba that he would reallocate a R70m budget set aside for bicycle lanes around Johannesburg for projects in Alexandra.

Priced from R1.85 million. No Transfer Duty.

One-on-Whiteley, the new residential phase of Melrose Arch, is the ultimate in luxury cosmopolitan living. When you invest in an apartment at One-on-Whiteley, you are investing in a secure, convenient and vibrant lifestyle. One-on-Whiteley provides an amazing opportunity to be part of the success and attraction that this unique new urban quarter offers.

By owning an apartment in One-on-Whiteley, you open the door to 21st century living.

On Show at the Pam Golding Office - The High Street, Melrose Arch.

Saturday 11am - 3pm. Sunday 2pm - 5pm.

Peet Strauss 083 675 1212, pstrauss@pamgolding.co.za Victoria Russell 074 683 1222, victoria.russell@pamgolding.co.za Tersia Taljaard 063 695 7571, tersiat@amdec.co.za

The Amdec Group is a privately-owned property development and investment business recognised as South Africa’s leading developer of New Urban lifestyles.

Its pioneering portfolio includes the iconic Melrose Arch mixed-use precinct.

To be part of the ultimate in luxury cosmopolitan living, please contact: Victoria Russell 074 683 1222 • victoria.russell@pamgolding.co.za Peet Strauss 083 675 1212• pstrauss@pamgolding.co.za Tersia Taljaard 063 695 7571 • tersiat@amdec.co.za Office: 011 684 2995/6 • pamgolding.co.za/melrose-arch

OUR MANSION

IN THE SKY COME VIEW OUR THREE LEVEL, 1320sqm, B E S P O K E P E N T H O U S E T O D AY

YOU DESERVE TO LIVE ONE OF THE BEST LIFESTYLES IN AFRICA. Come and experience it from the rooftop of apartment 12720. Available daily for viewings.

Houghton on 12th, 53 Second Ave, Houghton - Show apartment 12720 ALAN BECKER – 082 718 8100 || alan@thehoughton.com WARREN BECKER – 082 302 3004