The character-filled suburb of Westdene in Johannesburg has become popular among first-time buyers seeking value, space and proximity to amenities.
Adrienne Hersch Properties area specialist, Anthoney Bosman, says the area’s central location is a major attraction for starter couples and young professionals seeking convenience.
“Recent Lightstone figures show that 51% of recent buyers in the area are between the ages of 18 and 35.”
He adds the area is also popular among investors seeking to convert homes into student accommodation, as well as among more mature couples looking to downscale into smaller, less expensive homes from surrounding suburbs.
“Situated to the west of the eclectic suburb of Melville, Westdene is conveniently close to the Johannesburg CBD, Parktown, Emmarentia, Greenside and Rosebank, as well as offering easy access to major arterials including the concrete highway, Ontdekkers Road and the N1 Ben Schoeman Highway via Empire Road. The area is highly popular for people working at nearby UJ and Wits, SABC, Media24 and Netcare Milpark and Garden City hospitals.”
Bosman says the area is made up of mainly freestanding homes with hardly any apartments. He says the average stand is 495sqm and homes are generally either two bedrooms, one bathroom or three bedrooms, two bathrooms. Most of them have cottages.
“The average home is around 100 years old, meaning they possess lots of character with Oregon pine floors, pressed ceilings, mature trees and great architectural detail.”
He says Westdene offers buyers unbeatable value in comparison with neighbouring suburbs. Older homes that need to be redone sell for between R950 000 and R1.2 million depending on size and location, while renovated homes sell for between R1.25 million and R2.7 million.
Bosman says a key drawcard for starter couples and young families to the area is its proximity to good schools, including Orban School, Sparrow School, Jan Celliers, De La Salle, the German School and The Ridge.
The area is also ideally placed to take advantage of the entertainment and lifestyle amenities offered by neighbouring Melville as well as nearby Rosebank and Parkhurst. Outdoor enthusiasts are able to take advantage of the beautiful Westdene and Emmarentia Dams, Zoo Lake, as well as the Melville Koppies Nature Reserve.
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