A growing number of parents are keen to shrug off the responsibility of a large family home once the children have flown the nest; to free up their spare time for more leisurely pursuits and indulge in pastimes for which there wasn’t time while they were bringing up a family.
So says Grahame Diedericks, Manager Principal for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, adding that many of these buyers are still a long way from retirement so, although they are seeking smaller and lower maintenance properties, they are nowhere near wanting to be tucked away in a retirement village.
“Essentially, they are looking for a property in which to start the next chapter of their lives and this usually entails downscaling both in property size and price in order to free up not only their time but also money for things like traveling and new hobbies and interests.
“And, although security, convenience, and access to amenities are common criteria, some prefer more tight-knit communities whilst other prefer a more autonomous lifestyle within a bustling neighbourhood and there are numerous excellent options for these buyers in Midrand.”
Willaway
This well-situated suburb in the heart of Midrand comprises an array of clusters, townhouses, and estates close to Waterfall and Kyalami Estate with easy access to Allandale Road and the Mall of Africa.
“Modern two-bedroom townhouses start at around R1.4 million and three-bedroom units from around R1.8m and for those seeking true lock-up-and-go homes, there are stunning apartment complexes where units begin at around R1m.”
Crowthorne
Also populated by clusters, townhouses, and estates, the suburb of Crowthorne is a little further out and, with agricultural holdings and large country-style estates dotting the landscape, is a very scenic area.
“Crowthorne may have a more country living atmosphere, but it’s actually not far from the Buccleuch interchange and residents also enjoy easy access to access to several shopping centres, golf courses like the Kyalami Country Club and Sandton, Pretoria and the Johannesburg CBD are only half an hour away.
“Apartments in complexes with amenities like pools start at R800 and larger units and townhouses with gardens, are generally priced between R1.2m and R1.7m.”
Carlswald North Estate
“This is a very community-oriented estate which offers an array of amenities for residents to enjoy together, including a gym, squash and tennis courts, cricket nets, a soccer/ ball sport lawn, jungle gym, and play area, jogging and walking paths, duck-filled ponds and a lovely rock swimming pool.
“Buyers seeking lock-up-and-go convenience can buy a modern one-or two-bedroom flat for between R830 000 and R1.2m or a more spacious townhouse with a garden for between R1.1m and R2m.”
Kyalami Glen
Situated just off Woodmead Avenue, Kyalami Glen is medium-sized with a 24-hour controlled access estate and an array of properties starting at around R2.6m.
“With a natural river running through it, beautifully landscaped grounds and indigenous gardens and a vibrant clubhouse, Kyalami Glen is one of Midrand's most sought-after estates.”
Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Johannesburg and Randburg, says there has been an uptick in enquiries from this buyer demographic for homes in estates and communities that offer a variety of onsite or local amenities.
“Many people at this stage of their lives are embracing a new lease on life and suburbs and estates that allow for an active, secure lifestyle with easy access to facilities, preferably within the boundaries of a community, are especially attractive - and even better if there’s a golf course or recreational wildlife green space on site or nearby.
“Estates and cluster developments are also especially popular because of the shared communal responsibilities which mean that residents can enjoy aspects like landscaped grounds and sparkling pools without having to do all the hard work themselves.”
Eagle Canyon
Situated on the border of Randburg and Roodepoort, with stunning views of the Magaliesberg Mountains, Eagle Canyon ticks all the right boxes with its 18-hole golf course, clubhouse facilities and restaurant, gym, expansive landscaped parks, 12km of walkways, and 10 scenic dams.
Despite the country lifestyle on offer, the estate is in close proximity to Northgate, Clearwater, Cresta, and the N1.
“Eagle Canyon offers great value, especially for buyers looking for compact homes, with two-bedroom townhouses starting at around R1.6m and three-bedroom units from around R2.5m, depending on location, size and finishes.
Olivewood Lifestyle Residential Estate
Centrally located near Fourways and close to all amenities, this exclusive estate boasts wholesome living with a village atmosphere and a close-knit community.
“Olivewood is a tranquil, well-managed, secure, and eco-friendly yet high-tech development with wide, well-lit, and quiet streets, magnificent views, manicured grounds, and an abundance of birdlife.
“And, with a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, each home benefits from thermal insulation to ensure cooler temperatures in summer and warmth in winter and, with solar energy being the main source of power, energy bills are significantly reduced.”
Properties on the estate range between R3.4m and R4.7m.
The Houghton
“Ranked by New World Wealth as one of the Top 10 Luxury Apartments in South Africa, The Houghton is the ideal option for those who enjoy close proximity to the hustle and bustle but also value exclusivity and privacy.”
Amenities include a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, walking paths, multiple Leisure pools, three gourmet restaurants, a spa and juice Bar and a gym and security is state-of-the-art.
Two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments are available and are priced between R3. 89m and R75m.
“Some people find the set rules and regulations of estate living a little restrictive and access-controlled suburbs like Riverclub, Duxberry, Hurlingham and Boskruin are the ideal alternative as residents can enjoy their autonomy along with the peace of mind afforded by a boomed access point and 24-hour manned security,” says Odendaal.
“And, even though they are suburbs and not formal developments, there is also a great sense of community in these enclaves which always contributes greatly to the character and appeal of the neighbourhood.”
