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Estate Living joined the contributors for the In Bound SA magazine article when editor Gavin Prins asked Estate Living to share their expertise on the residential community schemes market in SA.
WHEN IT COMES TO BUYING A HOME, PERSONAL CHOICE SHAPES THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS. ESTATE LIVING’S CEO, LOUISE MARTIN, HANDPICKED THESE LUXURY ESTATES TO SHOWCASE A SPECTRUM OF OPTIONS THAT PROVIDE DISTINCT PROPERTY, LIFESTYLE AND ENVIRONMENT OPTIONS CATERING TO FAMILIES, RETIREES, AND INVESTORS.
1. Silver Lakes Golf and Wildlife Estate, Pretoria
Located on the outskirts of Pretoria, Silver Lakes Estate stands out with its expansive freehold properties, boasting 1000m² homes valued at R10 million and a unique wildlife sanctuary within its bounds. This estate not only offers sizeable houses but also features a retirement community, a Peter Matkovich signature-designed golf course, a country club, a restaurant, and a conference centre.
It is ideal for families and retirees, as the homeowners association (HOA) works hard to foster a strong sense of community through events and activities. The estate has a robust capital reserve and upgrades, and new offerings are always underway. 1 particularly like the HOA’s innovative approach to activities for residents of all ages from chess clubs to wine-tasting and dog walking for adults as well as golfing events.
2. Kyalami Estate, Johannesburg
Kyalami Estate in Johannesburg is a shining example of what an estate can achieve through exceptional management. The team here does amazing things on the estate, with the goal of not only investing in the infrastructure but also the residents. They have created spaces throughout the estate that bring residents together and this receives support from the family-friendly community. Showcasing a harmonious blend of residential comfort and urban accessibility, the estate is strategically positioned near the Kyalami shopping centre, is well-managed, and offers homes averaging around R5 million.
3. Dainfern Valley, Johannesburg
Dainfern Valley, situated within the borders of the Dainfern precinct, exemplifies collaborative community living. The area has several residential estates, a shopping centre, a college, and a commercial element all within one precinct. Over the years, these estates and businesses have got together and formed the Dainfern Community Association, which maintains the common areas around each of these estates and has a robust shared security solution.
This is outdoor living at its best. Beyond its gates, Dainfern Valley offers picturesque walkways, well-maintained common areas, and larger-than-average houses priced at approximately R8 million, creating an ideal haven for those seeking natural beauty, security, and tranquillity. The association works hard to maintain and uplift the surrounding area, making it safer, cleaner, and more attractive for all. This area is very popular with the corporate rental market.
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4. Crossways Farm Village, Jeffreys
As South Africa’s first agri-hood, Crossways Farm Village, located halfway between Jeffreys Bay and Geberha, has transformed the concept of community living into a fully-fledged town. Created by the same team that developed Thesen Islands in Knysna, this beautifully positioned estate has its own municipality, agricultural land, and a variety of housing options that suit a cross-section of buyers.
The estate offers country living with modern and contemporary features that provide a unique blend of urban conveniences and rural lifestyle.
The plot-and-plan development starts with a land purchase and then you select the home style. The costs would depend on the position of land on the estate as well as home design and finishes, but prices begin at a competitive R3 million. With its own water and electricity supply, lively Saturday market, onsite farm and outdoor activities like mountain biking, the 520-hectare estate is attractive to a diverse range of buyers who are looking to get out of the city and enjoy a country lifestyle.
5. Kingswood Golf Estate, George
This is a relatively young, up-and-coming estate within the George area, and is especially attractive to investors thanks to its ongoing development. The fourth phase has completely sold out and is now under construction. The Kingswood HOA are currently building a community clubhouse. The golf course is a must-play for enthusiasts and hosts several tournaments every year.
There is a mix of properties, all surrounding the golf course and offering a diverse community from young families to retirees. George is a forward-thinking municipality and as a result, Kingswood promises a growing investment opportunity with prices currently around the R4 million mark. It is a great option for those looking to buy a great family home now and see their investment grow solidly over the next decade.
6. Somerset Lifestyle and Retirement Village, Western Cape
Somerset Lifestyle and Retirement Village redefine retirement living with a hybrid model, offering life-right homes, sectional title apartments, assisted living units and freehold homes. What is great about this estate, is that besides the beautiful sweeping ocean views and onsite care and nursing centre, it also holds an excellent position within Somerset West.
There are a range of fantastic golf courses in proximity, as well as shopping centres and good access to transport networks. The Life Right model is ideal for investors looking for a comfortable lifestyle but at a more affordable price. The current phase of homes that were released in late 2023 are selling from R4.7 million.
7. Welgevonden Estate, Western Cape
Priced at an inviting R3.5 million buy-in, Welgevonden Estate in the Western Cape is a little gem, exemplifying strategic development.
Originally targeting students, it has transformed into a high-density estate thanks to the board’s foresight and decision to build up a strong capital reserve fund in 2017. This has enabled the estate to undergo major upgrades, like their new leisure area around the onsite dam and the development of new facilities.
The estate has also refreshed its branding which is working if you look at the escalating property prices. This is a competitive estate and serves as a blueprint for successful community development, highlighting what can be achieved when an estate has a like-minded board, and professional management and understands the fundable need to continue to reinvest in the common assets.
