PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

NeighbourhoodRSA

Wine rebelsBest of the Swartland RevolutionTurn to page 03 for more

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02 CHOCOLATE SECTIONAL TITLES17NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: BALLITO08SMART HOMES06

27 SEPTEMBER 2015

Neighbourhood2 27 SEPTEMBER 2015NEWS & LIFESTYLE

PUBLISHED BY THE CREATIVE GROUP

9 6th Street, Parkhurst, 2193011 476 6293thecreativegroup.info

EDITORIAL TEAM

Group Editor: Claire Barnardoclaire.barnardo@thecreativegroup.infoCreative Director: Mark Peddle

ADVERTISING SALES: Visit yourneighbourhood.co.za or call 087 828 0423

Sales & Marketing Manager: Michèle Jones michele.jones@thecreativegroup.infoNeighbourhood Manager: Dylan Rothschild dylan.rothschild@thecreativegroup.infoProduction (Editorial & Property Advertising): Lucea Goosen lucea@yourneighbourhood.co.za

Editorial Consultant: Bridget McNultyChief Copy Editor: Yaron BlecherCopy Editor: Charis Le RicheArt Director: Leah de JagerDesigner: Megan CooperOnline Editor: Lauren Joubert

THE CREATIVE GROUP CEO: Shaun Minnie shaun.minnie@thecreativegroup.info

TASTE FOR YOURSELF:

My Sugar 77 Regent Road, Sea Point 021 433 2335

Choc therapyA chocoholic’s dream, My Sugar is a new café dedicated to the funkiest chocolate in town

Step through the door of My Sugar in Sea Point’s Regent Road and your senses will go into overdrive

at the display trays stacked high with chocolates in all shapes and sizes. Choose from a hundred di� erent taste journeys: each one a work of art. This is a café with a di� erence – order your co� ee from the barista and then take on the herculean task of choosing a few individual chocolates to adorn your plate.

This chocolate café is a long-time dream of chocolatier Kaylah Greenberg. “We wanted to make great chocolate accessible and fun again. Most chocolate shops have stayed very traditional and we wanted to turn that on its head,” she says. Together with partner Asher Isaacs, a chef with several years at fi ve-star dining establishment La Colombe under his belt, she has certainly brought the fun back into chocolate and the quirkiest creations are already favourites with the wide variety of regulars popping in to My Sugar for a hit of chocolate cheer. “One of our stars is the Caramello-Buddha, a milk chocolate Buddha fi lled with miso caramel and crushed peanuts. Our Old Man Jacks have also been a hit – Jack Daniels bourbon ganache

WORDS: KIT HEATHCOCK IMAGES: CLARE WILLIAMS

and tobacco caramel encased in a dark chocolate skull.”

Kaylah uses very little added sugar in her fi llings, and the fruit centres retain their natural acidity. There’s a subtlety to all the fl avours: in the golden chocolate Buddhas, the miso is complementary rather than overpowering, and deeply satisfying to the foodie palate. I especially enjoyed the Dark Salt Teardrops, the salt bringing out the richness of the chocolate without even looking for attention. Kaylah is constantly experimenting with fl avour combinations so there is always something new to try. “Our recent fl avour creations are hazelnut and coriander, popping candy and champagne, and a very small dark chocolate shell fi lled

with 100% cocoa mass: a really cool experiment for customers to see where chocolate comes from.”

Then there are the luscious new cake jars, and a new range of maltitol-sweetened chocolates suitable for diabetics. Be sure to take home some of the salty sweet pretzel bark (their bestseller): crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel and Maldon sea salt in milk or dark chocolate. Yum!

We are so lucky with our

customer base. We have every type of person imaginable come through our doors. It just goes to show that everyone loves chocolate!KAYLAH GREENBERG, OWNER/

CHOCOLATIER

Home-grown

Editor’s ExclusiveCLAIRE BARNARDO

A fter watching Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater perform recently, my thoughts

wandered to our local arts scene. We have a lot to celebrate in terms of dance, drama and arts in general. But I think that our biggest challenge is getting people to attend – the bums-on-seats necessity that keeps performance alive.

Coinciding with this past Heritage Day is the beginning of the Cape Town Fringe festival. So, leave your comfort zone and go support local talent. Here’s why:

• The Fringe showcases the rich diversity of the country’s talent. While more than 60% of the artists involved in the Fringe this year are from the Western Cape, the rest of the country is also represented by must-see acts from Durban, Joburg, Rustenburg... Even Grahamstown!

• Engage your children’s curiosity by exposing them to the thrill of live theatre. There are loads of family-friendly shows on the programme.

• Shows that fi t snugly into your lunch break have been especially scheduled for the middle of the day, allowing the desk-bound a creative lunch hour.

• Rub shoulders with artists: the Fringe Club at City Hall is open from 11am until late, with good food, a bar and live entertainment.

Fringe festivals give us the

impetus to engage the arts to heal ourselves from our past, to unravel truths about our current challenges, to envision hope for the future and to sometimes just temporarily escape into oblivionISMAIL MAHOMED, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR:

CAPE TOWN FRINGE

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF:

Cape Town Fringe Festival 2015

For the full line-up, visit

capetownfringe.co.za.

Neighbourhood 327 SEPTEMBER 2015 NEWS & LIFESTYLE

ADVERTISING SALES: Visit yourneighbourhood.co.za or call 087 828 0423

Sales & Marketing Manager: Michèle Jones michele.jones@thecreativegroup.infoNeighbourhood Manager: Dylan Rothschild dylan.rothschild@thecreativegroup.infoProduction (Editorial & Property Advertising): Lucea Goosen lucea@yourneighbourhood.co.za

AA Badenhorst Family WinesDespite – or perhaps because of – his piratical appearance, Adi Badenhorst is one of the leading lights of the Swartland Revolution. On his Paardeberg farm Kalmoesfontein, he dabbles in everything from dry tonic to herb-infused ‘Caperitif’ vermouth, but it’s his wines that have won acclaim worldwide. The AA Badenhorst red and white blends are certainly superb, but his everyday qua� ers are what should fi ll your cellar this summer. The Secateurs Chenin Blanc scored four stars in the latest Platter’s Wine Guide, and o� ers some of the best value in the Swartland.

Taste the RevolutionDidn’t get tickets to this year’s Swartland Revolution? Enjoy a taste of South Africa’s sexiest wine region with these fi ve bottles…

WORDS: RICHARD HOLMES IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Mullineux & Leeu Family WinesThere’s great value to be found in the White Blend from Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines too, albeit at a higher price. Winemaker Andrea Mullineux chose specifi c vineyards according to their soil type – shale and schist on the Kasteelberg, decomposed granite on the Paardeberg – to select the perfect blocks of Chenin Blanc, Clairette Blanche and Viognier for this top-rated blend.

Sadie Family VineyardsEben Sadie is a winemaker passionate about seeking out unusual vineyards. The Palladius and Columella from Sadie Family Vineyards are world-class white and red blends, but his particular passion is identifying and rescuing – through winemaking – the old bush vine vineyards of the region. These are celebrated in his Old Vine Series, which includes the Soldaat Grenache from Piekenierskloof and the Skur� erg Chenin Blanc from the Olifants River valley. However, it’s the Pofadder Cinsault that is most worthy of a tasting. The most challenging in the range to make, says Sadie, it’s an elegant example of a grape rarely bottled on its own.

The Hughes Family WinesThe Nativo Red Blend from the Hughes Family Wines will be more familiar to wine lovers; a delicious blend driven by Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Sourced from dry land organic vineyards above Malmesbury, it’s a perfect example of the excellent wine the Swartland is capable of producing.

Annex Kloof WinesAs are the wines from Annex Kloof. Winemaker Hugo Basson is perhaps most famous for his Malbec, but his Rhône-style wines are also worth exploring. The Tulu is another classic blend of Shiraz, Mourvèdre and Grenache, combining dark berries with plenty of spice. Drink now with red meat dishes, or cellar until 2020.

The Hughes Family WinesThe Nativo Red Blend from the Hughes

their soil type – shale and schist on the Kasteelberg, decomposed granite on the Paardeberg – to select the perfect blocks of Chenin Blanc, Clairette Blanche and of Chenin Blanc, Clairette Blanche and Viognier for this top-rated blend.

through winemaking – the old bush vine vineyards of the region. These are celebrated in his Old Vine Series, which includes the Soldaat Grenache which includes the Soldaat Grenache from Piekenierskloof and the Skur� erg Chenin Blanc from the Olifants River valley. However, it’s the Pofadder Cinsault that is most worthy of a tasting. The most challenging in the range to make, says Sadie, it’s an elegant example of a grape rarely bottled on its own.

example of the excellent wine the Swartland is capable of producing.

Grenache, combining dark berries with plenty of spice. Drink now with red meat dishes, or cellar until 2020.

Taqueria don’t have their liquor licence yet, but they do have a BYOB policy. So grab something from home or visit the bottle store across the road

Neighbourhood4 NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Inspired by taco shops in Mexico, El Burro’s sibling restaurant Taqueria has fast become a favourite

Kloof Nek haunt. You’ll fi nd that most nights this tiny eatery is packed with hungry diners adding their names to the waiting list. “Taquerias are so intrinsic to Mexican food culture, it is such a part of everyday life. Mexican taquerias are a lot more informal, but the food is very similar,” explains co-owner Nic Haarhof.

I arrive on a Thursday to fi nd Taqueria completely full. Luckily my friends

From the folks who brought you El Burro comes the latest addition: Taqueria. It’s all about simple, tasty food

Taco-tastic cuisineWORDS: CHARIS LE RICHE IMAGES: RICHARD KEPPEL-SMITH

arrived early enough to secure a booth (tip number one). Taqueria has a minimal yet chic décor complete with booths, hanging plants and yellow and blue stools. Owners Rene Jellis, Nic, and Hugo and Sasha Berolsky know a thing or two about decorating trendy spots, as you can see from their other ventures: El Burro, Royale Eatery, Cabrito and Neighbourhood (to name a few). “When we design spaces, we create ones that we would personally want to go to and where we’d bring our friends,” explains Nic.

TASTE FOR YOURSELF:

El Burro Taqueria021 422 3554Open from noon till late, Monday to Saturday

Heat your entire home by ducting

from a PIAZZETTA fireplace.

MC 120/48 15KW

27 SEPTEMBER 2015

The restaurant has no menus, but you’ll fi nd everything you need to know on the wall above the counter. Some of the items you’ll recognise from El Burro, others you won’t. Mains are one per portion, but it means you can pick a few samples to really experience the menu. Our waitress recommended we order three portions, but you can easily get away with four (tip number two) and still have space for churros (deep fried, coated in crunchy sugar with a glorious choc dipping sauce) for dessert.

I sampled the chilorio pork taco (twice cooked, with chilli and garlic), steak quesadilla (free-range rib-eye with chilli salsa, queso fresco and fresh avo) and the chicken taco (chilli, garlic, lime, coriander and avo). All three were standouts and I was tempted to order seconds of each. As Nic says, “Anyone who knows El Burro and how we [the owners] operate will know that when we open up a venture the integrity, freshness and quality of the food comes through in each dish we serve.”

Last word? “We do not do crispy hard-shell tacos. We encourage our patrons to come with an open mind – this is not a conventional SA restaurant. So come in and relax and don’t worry about what society tells you a restaurant should be.”

Neighbourhood 5NEWS & LIFESTYLE

Heat your entire home by ducting

from a PIAZZETTA fireplace.

MC 120/48 15KW

27 SEPTEMBER 2015

Nuri SushiSushi outings are lovely when they’re at an exciting new restaurant and you have all the time in the world, but not when you’re in a hurry. If you want to stuff your face with designer sushi without dressing up for the occasion, then Nuri Sushi is what you need. Situated at 8 Parliament Street, Cape Town, Nuri Sushi has a nifty assembly line that ensures each dish comes out beautiful, tasty… and fast. If you’re indecisive but would like an affordable variety, try the Botha Platter that includes rainbow rolls, spicy prawn tempura, salmurai, IKA roll and tuna crunch. Best part: they’re open on Sundays and you can bring your own bottle of wine, no corkage!

JuniorHaving only recently opened its doors (on 16 September) Junior already promises to be the next top fast food joint. Owned by the same people who brought us the original gourmet burger restaurant, Royale Eatery, Junior represents a new concept: gourmet take-away. Fast, yet fresh. Found at 12 Kloof Nek Road, Junior promises to never serve a frozen patty for as long as they are in the fast food game, that their rolls will be baked on-site and their fries will be freshly chopped potatoes. Be sure to stop by and try one of their five burger options.

Curry in a HurryRun by 75-year-old Gerhardt Hundt, in all its trending food truck glory, is Curry in a Hurry. What makes the curry dishes from this food truck more desirable than any other curry eatery, aside from the experienced chef? Gerhardt’s homemade curry power, which he explains is just the right level of hotness without overpowering the other flavours. He also makes his own plum chutney, pickled chillies and atchar. Visit Curry in a Hurry at Groote Post Country Market during October 2015. To know where Gerhardt will be stopping next, or to book him for functions, simply give him a call.

WORDS: ANDY MÖLLER

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

When time is of the essence,

finding the perfect fast

food spot is vital

LOCAL LOWDOWN

1

3TASTE FOR YOURSELF:

Junior021 422 2968

Curry in a Hurry082 924 3138

Nuri Sushi021 461 8719nuri.co.za

2

Neighbourhood6 NEWS & LIFESTYLE 27 SEPTEMBER 2015

S imply put, the term “smart home” refers to the idea that devices within a home can

all be connected not only to each other but also to the internet, thus allowing homeowners to control them through central interfaces.

And this doesn’t only include computers, tablets and the like: it gets truly useful when applied to appliances and other home electronics. A few years ago, when internet-connected fridges came onto the market, they were the butt of jokes. Now it seems they’re anything but.

According to Jaryd Raizon from local smart-solutions company Simpletech, most people who come to them are aware of the concept of the smart home but not the full potential of the technology. “I would say that about 70%

The smart home is, for many, the next major evolution in the way we liveWORDS: CHRIS REID IMAGES: CONTROL4AUTOMATION/SIMPLETECH

SEE FOR YOURSELF:

Simpletech

021 300 1331

simpletech.co.za

of our customers approach us knowing that technology can help them to achieve a more secure, energy-e� cient and convenient home,” he says, “but they rely on us to paint the picture for them.” According to Jaryd, more advanced systems are increasingly taking o� in luxury residential homes, while in the mass market, players such as Altech’s Node device dominate.

The truly smart home may be in its infancy in SA, but the growth internationally has been signifi cant. Juniper Research projects a total global market value of $71bn by 2018. This is mostly in the entertainment category, but peripheral devices will invariably follow. With this in mind, the growth in South Africa is inevitable. How local developers fi nd solutions geared specifi cally for this market and the South African lifestyle, however, will be key.

Living connected

I would say that about 70% of

our customers approach us knowing that technology can help them to achieve a more secure, energy-effi cient and convenient home, but they rely on us to paint the picture for themJARYD RAIZON, COO: SIMPLETECH

Ambre All-Inclusive

Standard Garden View All-Inclusive10% early booking discount included

Adults OnlyGuests 16 years and older

09 Dec - 21 Dec 2015

7 nights from R 20 130 - Ex JNB 7 nights from R 20 550 - Ex DUR7 nights from R 21 000 - Ex CPT

Package includes: Return direct �ights to Mauritius on Air Mauritius. Return coach transfers. *All-Inclusive: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, selected drinks while bars are open. All land and non motorised water sports as per brochure. Daily Entertainment. Package excludes: Passport + visa costs (if applicable). Travel insurance. Items of a personal nature. Approximate taxes, levies and surcharges R3560 ex JNB / R4120 ex DUR / R4690 ex CPT. All rates quoted are per adult sharing and subject to availability at time of making the reservation. Airfares & taxes are subject to change within the speci�ed seasons and are carrier speci�c, which could impact on the rate quoted. Rates are subject to currency �uctuations which are subject to change without prior noti�cation. Standard T’s and C’s apply.

Located at Palmar, just a few kilometers from the renowned island of Ile aux Cerfs, this contemporary All-Inclusive adult only resort boasts a 700m coral sandy beach running along a sheltered bay.

Please call your nearest travel professional or World Leisure Holidays on 0860 954 954 / www.wlh.co.za /

All-Inclusive adult only treat

5 Great reasons to choose Ambre Adult only beach resort o�ering an All-Inclusive formula at 3 restaurants and 2 bars. Modern rooms, recently refurbished in a fresh and contemporary style. A 700m long white natural sandy beach running along the sheltered bay of Palmar. Free access to additional facilities and restaurants at the nearby Long Beach 5 star resort: both Ambre and Long Beach are operated by Sun Resorts. Easy access to the iconic island of Ile aux Cerfs and to the Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club: golfers receive free green fees and complimentary bus shuttle and taxi boat.

Neighbourhood

No longer just a quaint holiday spot, Ballito is quickly growing up

BallitoWORDS: CATH JENKIN IMAGES: PRIVATE PROPERTY & SUPPLIED

BallitoSpotlight on

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT

Shining a light on SA’s featured neighbourhood

RSA

8 27 SEPTEMBER 2015SPOTLIGHT

Neighbourhood

thanks to the golden hearts of the residents of Ballito.It’s also easy to get the work/life balance right in Ballito: slotting in a surf, run or gym session before or after work is simple, because work and home are close to each other.”

Scott says that there is still a lot of opportunity on the North Coast, as a second wave of growth has begun on the foundations laid over the past 10 years.

Lifestyle and retailThe establishment of three large shopping malls in Ballito bears testament to its development as a commercial hub and its convenient location for residents. Take a leisurely browse through Ballito Lifestyle Centre, Ballito Junction or The Quarter and you’ll fi nd everything you need within easy reach. Ballito Junction is expanding too, with construction to be completed in 2017.

Let’s talk about the beach With a beautifully paved promenade that o� ers you incredible ocean views and the chance to spy dolphins at play (hence “Dolphin Coast”), Ballito’s beachfront is made for family fun. Enjoy a leisurely sunset walk, or take your pick of one of the area’s beaches to enjoy a sunny day out.

Outsiders might still see

Ballito as a charming holiday resort that’s

great for fun in the sun, but the area o� ers so much

more to those who settle there.

Just 40km north of central Durban, Ballito is considered a haven for city

dwellers and a heart-fi lled home for those who live there. Established as a town in 1954, Ballito is famous for its ocean views and a laid-back lifestyle that underpins a sense of community.

Ballito gets down to businessWhen King Shaka International Airport and Dube TradePort opened in 2010, Ballito came to the fore for many in the worlds of commerce and industry. But the success of this local industry boom isn’t only because of development: it also rests upon a strong element of community support.

Known for his outspoken commitment to the town, Justin Scott is also a devoted husband, father of three and MD of FabMags Publications, a proudly

Ballito enterprise. Says Justin, “Ten years ago the town was small and, as

a community, we had to support each other to survive. Locals still

support each other and there is still a climate of old-school

values in a modern and progressive town that

is growing up. We honour and

respect those that have

worked

hard and invested in the area to make a living and grow a business.

“There is a misconception that because we’re coastal, we’re chilled or relaxed, but Ballito’s people work very hard. Many of the businesses have been established by people who moved to Ballito from upcountry, so they bring that buzz with them and they are as driven and motivated as anyone, anywhere else.”

Work/life balanceBusiness is booming in Ballito, but this hasn’t had a negative e� ect on the quality of life. In fact, it’s made it even easier for residents to discover and embrace their work/life balance, touching on a fi rm foundation that’s made for living life to the max.

Justin says, “Life in Ballito is really di� erent. When it comes to lifestyle, Ballito o� ers everything you want for a family: quality time over time stuck in tra� c, familiar faces that greet you at the shops, and kindred spirits that support each other. Add in the beauty of the place and it makes for a very attractive place to live. Overall, our mind-set is one of collective positivity: that we as a community can overcome most challenges thrown at us. We also get together to help out wherever needed,

as evidenced by programmes such as Vision 153, a community-driven

support organisation that’s growing

exponentially

Locals still support each

other and there is still a climate of old-school values in a modern and progressive town that is growing upJUSTIN SCOTT, RESIDENT

927 SEPTEMBER 2015 SPOTLIGHT

Neighbourhood

EAT LIKE A LOCAL

La Piazza

Zara’s Café

Mamma G’s

Eat Local Grill

Mo-zam-bik Ballito

Al Pescatore

Beira Alta

Thava Ballito

Gianni’s Ristorante

10 SPOTLIGHT

With a beautifully paved promenade that offers you incredible ocean views

and the chance to spy dolphins at play (hence “Dolphin Coast”), Ballito’s beachfront is made for family fun.

ZARA’S CAFÉ

EAT LOCAL GRILL BEIRA ALTA

27 SEPTEMBER 2015

Neighbourhood

WATCH THIS NEIGHBOURHOOD COME TO LIFE AT

privateproperty.co.za/ballito

11SPOTLIGHT

Our mind-set is one of

collective positivity, that we as a community can overcome most challenges thrown at usJUSTIN SCOTT, RESIDENT

Take a leisurely browse through

Ballito Lifestyle Centre, Ballito Junction or The Quarter and you’ll fi nd everything you need, within easy reach. Ballito Junction is expanding too, with construction to be completed in 2017

BALLITO JUNCTION

BALLITO LIFESTYLE CENTRE

27 SEPTEMBER 2015

BALLITO LIFESTYLE CENTRE

Neighbourhood

R18,000

R3,35m

R5,89m

R2,58m

Average asking price for a typical Ballito

property (four-bedroom house)

Apartment: average asking price:

Monthly asking price for a typical Ballito rental

(a three-bedroom house)

Average asking price: sectional title house

Property prices in Ballito

12 SPOTLIGHT 27 SEPTEMBER 2015

It’s easy to get the work/life

balance right in Ballito: slotting in a surf, run or gym session before or after work is simple, because work and home are close to each otherJUSTIN SCOTT, RESIDENT

Neighbourhood 13SPOTLIGHT

A home for everyonewww.privateproperty.co.za

79 007 properties under R1Million. Find yours.

Property demand in Ballito

65%71% Percentage of total rental listings for the Dolphin Coast in BallitoBallito’s command of Interest in properties for sale on the Dolphin Coast

75%Ballito: percentage of total sales listings for the Dolphin Coast

SIMBITHI ECO ESTATE

27 SEPTEMBER 2015

Neighbourhood14 PROPERTY NEWS 27 SEPTEMBER 2015

Homebuyers are often caught o� -guard by the additional costs associated with buying a home,

but growing awareness of these expenses means many buyers are taking a more conservative approach to home buying. A recent FNB Estate Agent Survey estimates 13% of sellers are selling their property to downscale due to fi nancial pressure. John Loos, strategist: FNB, says an individual can reduce costs such as home maintenance, rates and tari� s bills, insurance and furniture by limiting the size and value of a home.

“Many potential homebuyers overcommit fi nancially, taking out a 100% loan-to-value bond and more debt to fi nance transaction costs or furniture and appliances for their new home,” Loos says. “However, the smaller the home, the less space for material items and less electricity consumption, and the lower the value of the home, the lower the rates bill should be, with the garden and swimming pool having lower water, maintenance and insurance needs,” he says. Lesiba Mooka, CEO: Cobalt Blue

WORDS: LISA DEWBERRY IMAGE: ISTOCK

With a growing awareness of all the costs associated with buying a home, more buyers are limiting the size and value of their purchase

Properties, says with the introduction of stricter lending rules the number of homebuyers purchasing properties beyond their means has drastically decreased in the last 10 years, with fewer properties repossessed as a result. However, around 3% to 5% of homeowners are still unable to make monthly payments. He says buyers should be prepared for costs, such as paying a deposit if the fi nancier doesn’t grant a 100% bond legal fees, and bond registration and transfer costs. “Allowance should be made for additional expenses, such as maintenance costs, monthly bond repayment increases and bank charges, that might arise once the property has been purchased. Saving 25% of the purchase price of the property should cover extra costs,” says Mooka. David Rebe, CEO: Sandak-Lewin Property Trust, says costs that are often not factored into the price of home-buying include movers, insurance premiums, security and increased costs in rates, taxes and maintenance. He says if the buyer moves into a property and there’s a delay in transferring the

property into their name, there will also be occupational rental to pay as they will be living in someone else’s house. “Buyers also need to take into account utilities such as phones, electricity and water, carpet cleaning, hanging curtains or painting. If buyers are purchasing a sectional-title property, they need to pay the monthly levy but should ask about special projects that may result in a special levy. Individuals should buy property with a bu� er for economic changes, increases in interest rates, utilities bills and being unemployed for a while,” says Rebe.

Allowance should be

made for additional expenses. Saving 25% of the purchase price of the property should cover extra costs

LESIBA MOOKA, CEO: COBALT BLUE

PROPERTIES

Conservative spending on homesdue to additional expenses

Neighbourhood 15PROPERTY NEWS27 SEPTEMBER 2015

And then there’s the patio with its uninterrupted views of the

ocean – ideal for the fabulous alfresco lifestyle that’s made possible by the wonderful weather on the North Coast

There’s nothing more exciting than moving into a new neighbourhood. Here’s what Stephne Ashworth loves about her new home in Ballito

New to the Neighbourhood: Ballito

Home loan questions? Answered

WORDS: RIEKIE HUMAN IMAGES: SUPPLIED

WORDS: BRIDGET MCNULTY IMAGES: ISTOCK

NATIONAL NEWS STORY

Opening the door to different neighbourhoods in SA

RSA

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT

YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD

Visit Private Property atprivateproperty.co.za.

LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION?

Nedbank Home Loans has compiled a free step-by-step Buyer’s Guide to empower not only fi rst-time homebuyers but also anyone who is considering the purchase of a new home. For more information, visit nedbank.co.za/homeloans.

A lan and Stephne Ashworth bought their spacious four-bedroom home on Thompson’s

Bay, Ballito in November last year with the help of Wendy McMurray of RE/MAX Dolphin Realtors. The apartment boasts magnifi cent sea views and exquisite features such as a walk-in pantry. Stephne tells us more about their new home.

Q: How did you fi nd your property? A: We were looking for a beachfront

property around Shaka’s Rock and Wendy McMurray put in a lot of e� ort to meet our brief.

Q: What do you wish you’d known before you started looking?

A: We really wish we were aware of how much the prices of homes in that area had increased in recent years.

Q: What do you love about your home?

A: This particular sectional-title property has few apartments and they are all on one level. There is also very easy access from the garage. The bathrooms are all en suite, and the maintenance on the interior is minimal. And then there’s the patio with its uninterrupted views of the ocean – ideal for the fabulous alfresco lifestyle that’s made possible by the wonderful weather on the North Coast. Both of us also love watching the moon rise. And the tropical storms that play out over the ocean’s horizon are truly spectacular.

Q: Did you know exactly what area you wanted to live in?

A: Yes. We were quite particular about that and it was certainly one of the main requirements of the property we would buy.

Q: What’s your favourite thing about your area?

A: We love the village atmosphere and the friendliness of everyone around here – including the holiday-makers! It’s such a special thing about South Africans, our openness and willingness to chat, and we have that in abundance here.

Q: Where’s your favourite local coffee spot?

A: The Fig Tree at Simbithi Country Club.

Q: How do I know what property I can afford?

A: To assess what you can a� ord to pay on a home purchase, it is important that you take into account all the costs of managing a home.

Ongoing costs1. Home loan repaymentsYou will have to pay o� your home loan in monthly instalments.

2. Homeowner’s cover (HOC)This type of insurance is mandatory for all home loans. It o� ers protection against loss and damage in respect of the home and/or its use and covers the physical structure, permanent fi xtures and fi ttings, lapas and swimming pools. If you are a sectional-title owner, your insurance is provided by your body corporate. Remember, this does not cover the contents of your home, for example furniture and appliances.

3. Loan protection assurance (LPA)Loan protection assurance provides protection for your home loan repayments in the event of death or disability, and may be a requirement on your home loan.

4. Municipal rates and taxesThis amount is determined by the market value of your property as estimated by your local municipality. It covers municipal services such as waste collection.

5. Water and electricityYou have to pay for the amount of water

and electricity you use every month.

6. LevyThe body corporate of the building determines the amount that each owner of a sectional-title property must pay every month. This money is used to pay for the maintenance of the common property and related costs such as insurance, painting, security and cleaning.

7. Garden maintenanceThis amount will vary according to the size of your property and the frequency of maintenance required.

8. Pool maintenanceThis cost varies according to the frequency of maintenance required.

9. SecurityThis cost varies according to the size of the property, the type of security required and whether or not you are linked to an armed-response service.

It’s important to know what to expect from a cost perspective on a month-to-month basis so that you know what property you can a� ord.

Neighbourhood16 27 SEPTEMBER 2015PROPERTY NEWS

High crime rates could affect property purchases in this coastal suburb

Table View: a criminal’s property playground?WORDS: LAUREN JOUBERT IMAGE: ANTON SCHOLTZ

Table View, a residential suburb situated along the Western Seaboard, has been exposed by

Crime Stats SA as being one of the most burgled areas in South Africa. What impact does this have on property values in the area? And what can community members do to reduce these statistics?

Crime Stats SA is an online database that shows which regions in South Africa are a� ected most by crime. Their 2014 data reveals information about suburbs often going unnoticed by the surrounding neighbourhoods. Bordered by wetlands and nature reserves, with Blouberg beach not far o� , Table View seems to be one of the most idyllic places to raise a family. Yet it is number nine on a list of Cape Town’s top burgled areas. According to Crime Stats SA, the o� cial number of house-related burglaries in Table View in one year is a staggering 1,235 – beating even some of Johannesburg’s suburbs.

Effect of crime Isobel Bresler, Realtor of Excellence, Table View area specialist, says that crime has not a� ected property sales, as the area is

preferred because of its location. “People love the fact that Table View is close to the sea and still o� ers relatively good value for money. It caters for a wide range of property buyers: in Table View you can still enter the property market for around R700,000 (for a two-bedroom fl at) or you can splash out on a property that may set you back R5m or R6m,” says Isobel. “In 2014 there were 263 freehold properties and 444 sectional title properties registered – that is a total of 707 property transfers. This is compared to 251 freehold properties and 329 sectional title properties in 2013 – an increase of 127 property transfers in 2014.”

Home safety adviceThe Table View Neighbourhood Watch is extremely active. Street communities have popped up throughout the neighbourhood, with WhatsApp groups being incorporated to keep homeowners aware of what’s happening around their home, even when they’re not there.

“I think prospective buyers are concerned about crime in South Africa as a whole

I think prospective

buyers are concerned about crime in South Africa as a whole – we know this is on the rise just about everywhereISOBEL BRESLER, REALTOR

OF EXCELLENCE, TABLE

VIEW AREA SPECIALIST

– we know this is on the rise just about everywhere,” says Isobel. Upping your security measures does not necessarily mean your property value will increase however. “It depends on the kind of security measures; it does not always lead to an increase in the value of the property but it without doubt makes a di� erence when similar properties compete against each other. A property with better security measures would normally sell quicker.”

Analyse itPATRICK CAIRNS

When everyone wins

Infrastructure is a key part of any functioning economy. Essentially, it’s the foundation on which

everything else is based. If you don’t have the proper requirements in place, your economy struggles. There is no better example of that than South Africa’s current electricity supply problem.

If you turn that on its head, however, building new infrastructure has a multiplier e� ect on economic growth. In simple terms, every R1 spent on infrastructure results in more than R1 being added to economic output. The perfect example of this is modern China. The huge growth story that has played out there has been based on massive amounts of fi xed-capital spending, sometimes to the extent of building entire cities from scratch.

That is why infrastructure is such a key part of the National Development Plan (NDP). South Africa recognises that it has to increase spending on infrastructure, both to resolve existing shortfalls and to stimulate future economic growth. The challenge is that the government doesn’t have enough money to meet the requirements on its own.

The NDP has set a target level of infrastructure spending at 30% of GDP to achieve economic growth of 5,4% by 2030, but fi gures from Stanlib show that infrastructure spending last reached these levels 40 years ago.

The government also has a record of underspending its budgeted infrastructure allocation. Estimates show that in 2012 to 2013 it spent only 85% of the R255,6bn it had set aside. This is a problem, but it is also an enormous opportunity for the private sector. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) o� er a potential solution where risks, responsibilities, resources and skills are shared between the government and private investors.

South Africa’s renewable-energy programme has already shown how well this can work. A total of 92 projects, all privately funded, built and managed, have been approved since 2011. This represents a total private-sector commitment of R193bn. The private sector hasn’t come forward with this money out of a sense of obligation or charity: it has been eager to participate because of the potential returns it can earn.

The result is that the country as a whole benefi ts from private-sector technology, innovation and knowledge. This improves e� ciency and enhances public services while taking some of the strain o� the government.

It only works, however, when the private sector sees the potential for enticing returns on its investment. That is where the government has to play its role. If it can create the right incentives and the right framework, the potential for symbiotic relationships with the private sector can be a win-win for everybody.

The NDP highlights a number of areas where infrastructure spending should be directed, including education, health care, public transport, broadband internet, energy and water

1727 SEPTEMBER 2015Neighbourhood PROPERTY NEWS

www.Maxidor.co.za | 0860 131 131

BurglarBars

RollerShutters

ExpandableBarriers

I think prospective

buyers are concerned about crime in South Africa as a whole – we know this is on the rise just about everywhereISOBEL BRESLER, REALTOR

OF EXCELLENCE, TABLE

VIEW AREA SPECIALIST

WORDS: CATHERINE BLACK IMAGE: ISTOCK

Sectional-title: more popular than everDemand for sectional-title properties is growing both nationally and within Gauteng

Affordability, security and convenience – these are just some of the reasons why demand

for sectional-title properties is surging in South Africa, according to the recent Pam Golding Properties Residential Property Index. The index, which looks at property trends across the country, found that while only 10,9% of residential building plans passed in South Africa in 2000 were for sectional-title properties, this figure increased to 38% in 2015.

Within Gauteng specifically, this trend is notable in several residential suburbs, according to Jonathan Davies, manager: Pam Golding Properties Hyde Park. Within the suburb, he says, sectional-title properties make up 30% of all properties sold, but this form of ownership is growing further afield in suburbs such as Woodmead, Randburg and Soweto. It’s also popular in upmarket areas such as Sandhurst and Bryanston, where sectional-title developments allow residents to own more affordable homes in affluent areas.

Besides affordability, Davies says, there are several contributing factors to the trend. “Sectional-title properties are convenient, low maintenance and meet the desire for a secure lifestyle,” he explains. Davies also notes that the increase in the transfer duty threshold earlier this year has strengthened activity in this market, as it has allowed buyers looking for lower priced properties more financial leeway.

Charles Vining, managing director: Seeff Properties Sandton, says that sectional-title properties also offer peace of mind in terms of maintenance and upkeep. “Generally the body corporate maintains the building and grounds and facilitates the security services and billing of utilities, which eliminates much effort on the part of the owner,” he says. 

Vining cites examples such as Rosebank, where 80% of properties constitute sectional-title living, while Douglasdale and Craigavon now consist of 57% and 74% of sectional-title properties

respectively. Another key driver in suburbs such as Morningside is buy-to-let investors looking to rent to professionals working in and around Sandton.   

Given the current economic climate, it makes sense that demand for sectional-title properties is growing. With initiatives such as the rejuvenation of the Johannesburg city centre, more areas are becoming viable for creating new sectional-title properties in older buildings, and in so doing, beginning to meet this demand.

Besides affordability,

sectional-title properties are convenient, low maintenance and meet the desire for a secure lifestyle JONATHAN DAVIES, MANAGER: PAM

GOLDING PROPERTIES HYDE PARK

JOBURG NEWS STORY

Neighbourhood 1927 SEPTEMBER 2015 MARKETPLACE

MARKETPLACEArea Guide Agency Guide

SOUTHERN SUBURBS

Pinelands 28

WESTERN SEABOARD Atlantic Beach 33, 35

Atlantic Links 35

Big Bay 21, 28, 29, 31

Blouberg 31, 32

Bloubergrand 31, 32

Bloubergrise 27

Bloubergsands 27

Bloubergstrand 21, 29, 32

Century City 29

Dolphin Beach 29

Duynefontein 35

Eden on the Bay 32

Flamingo Vlei 28, 31

Melkbosstrand 21, 31, 35

Milnerton 19

Parklands 21, 27, 29, 31, 32

Sunningdale 29

Table View 32

Van Riebeeckstrand 35

Waves Edge 29, 31

West Beach 27, 28, 31

WEST COAST

Langebaan 26

Yzerfontein 35

NORTHERN SUBURBS

Durbanville 23

Goodwood 28

Plattekloof 24, 25

Welgedacht 23

BOLAND, OVERBERG

& HELDERBERG Boschenmeer 23

Eastcliff 23

Franschhoek 23

Hermanus 23

Onrus 23

Paarl 22

Pearl Valley 23

Atlantic Beach Estate 33

Chas Everitt International Property Group 36ERA Real Estate 32Leapfrog Properties 35Nedbank 20Pam Golding Properties 23 - 27Rawson Properties 19Re/Max International Property Group 28 - 29Seeff Properties 31Sotheby's international Realty 20 - 21Val de Vie 22

Classifieds:Atlantic Beach Property Sales 35Rawson Properties 35

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