Tucked between two universities on the north-western border of Johannesburg’s city centre lies Auckland Park, one of the city’s most diverse and dynamic neighbourhoods.
“Having largely escaped the mass exodus of Joburgers to the northern suburbs, Auckland Park boasts a colourful cross-section of our rainbow nation's people,” says Sebastian Logan, Rawson Property Group’s newest franchise in Auckland Park.
Tucked between two universities on the north-western border of Johannesburg’s city centre lies Auckland Park.Known for its lively nightlife, café culture and quirky shops, the suburb is home to the SABC’s headquarters, the famous 7de Laan and the Johannesburg Country Club.
“Auckland Park is definitely an up-and-coming spot in Johannesburg, and there are a lot of opportunities to be had on the property market,” says Logan.
“I’ve worked in and around the area for several years and have been astounded by the growth and development being triggered by increasing demand from young people and students.”
The University of Johannesburg and Milpark Business School have been instrumental in attracting the youth to the area, he says, but Auckland Park has much more than just a great location and active social scene going for it.
“There are a huge number of heritage properties here, with oregon pine or parquet floors, pressed ceilings, spacious rooms, and stunning antique details. Some of the buildings are still original, but many have been modernised to be light, open-plan and airy, creating the perfect combination of old-world charm and contemporary lifestyle,” says Logan.
Known for its lively nightlife, café culture and quirky shops, the suburb is home to the SABC’s headquarters, the famous 7de Laan and the Johannesburg Country Club.Buyers can expect to pay between R1.5 million to R3.5 million for a freestanding house in Auckland Park, with townhouses available from around R800 000 to R1.2 million.
Apartments are on offer from a very affordable R400 000 to R800 000, while gated estates offer homes for as little as R800 0000 to R1.5 million. Developable land is also available from R350 000 to R1 million.
“Buyers concerned about proximity to Joburg’s notorious CBD can rest assured that crime in Auckland Park is not only under control - it’s actively decreasing, thanks to a very successful partnership between the suburb’s police department and its residents association, the APRA,” says Logan.
“The APRA was formed in 2014, and has been doing great things for the quality of life of residents in Auckland Park. It collaborates with ADT, the SAPS, JMPD, UJ Security, and a number of other private security institutions operating within the suburb.
Buyers concerned about proximity to Joburg’s notorious CBD can rest assured that crime in Auckland Park is not only under control - it’s actively decreasing.“This co-operative effort has had a dramatic effect on the safety of the local precincts and has not only drastically improved the efficacy of local policing, it’s also enhanced many other aspects of life in the neighbourhood.”
In light of this positive growth and the ever-increasing demand for student and youth accommodation, Auckland Park is a prime opportunity for investment.
“There’s big demand for buy-to-let properties and developments and prices are increasing, particularly in the areas closest to the University of Johannesburg,” says Logan.
“We’re already seeing the older generation making way for more students, and I think this is going to continue to revitalise the neighbourhood and breathe life and energy into the area.”
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