While densification has driven property investment in major development nodes across Johannesburg’s north for the past decade, changing buyer wish lists and pervasive economic pressure are creating new buying patterns and a distinctly different value perspective.
Duxberry, River Club and Morningside Ext 40 were among the boom-time “Cinderella” suburbs that are now benefiting from the market-buffering of increased investor interest, says Sue Hall, Area Specialist for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.
“Nodes like the Sandton CBD that enjoyed rampant development and unwavering demand in the market recovery post-2008 have taken a knock as a result of oversupply, dwindling investor appetite for high-priced property and, subsequently, diminishing return on investment,” she says.
“Many buyers are discovering the gems that have been hidden in plain sight, with these suburbs becoming increasingly popular, especially with families seeking well-priced, secure homes without the lifestyle restrictions and premium prices of compact urban apartment living.”
Hall says that Duxberry, River Club and Morningside Ext 40 tick the prerequisite security box in no uncertain terms, offering the peace of mind afforded by boomed access with 24-hour manned security.
And, having maintained their tranquil suburban atmosphere and sense of community, she says they also offer an appealing and increasingly rare environment in which to raise a family.
“In 2016, the median house price in River Club dropped slightly to R4.2 million from R4.41 million the previous year, and during the same period the median price in Morningside Ext 40 decreased fractionally from R4.8 million to R4.75 million.
“In Duxberry, however, the median price continued to rise by a solid 12.9% from R4.65 million in 2015 to R5.25 million by November last year and, interestingly, the suburb is still 100% freehold.”
Hall says properties surrounding the River Club Golf Course are especially sought after, and command the highest prices as they overlook the pristine fairways and boast scenic greenbelt views that include dams, bridges, trees and thriving birdlife.
“Boomed access points, bolstered by a dedicated on-site security manager and patrolling security vehicles, afford residents the luxury of enjoying amenities like the Duxberry Common that is well utilised by the community for outdoor relaxation, special occasions and community events.”
Lightstone data further reveals that in Duxberry and Morningside Ext 40, the vast majority (around 80%) of new buyers in 2016 were in the 36 to 49 age group, while in River Club the same percentage was split almost evenly between the aforementioned bracket and investors under the age of 35.
Lew Geffen, Chairman of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, says the growing popularity of these neighbouring enclaves is underpinned by several other appealing drawcards.
“And, cushioned by their affluent neighbours, Duxberry and River Club, especially, are largely buffered from the noise emanating from the N1 and N3 circle of major roads.”
Geffen says few suburbs have managed to retain the same authentic village feel, with safe, clean, tree-lined streets where children still play outside.
Families also have access to a number of excellent public schools, including Sandown High, Bryneven Primary School and Bryanston High School, as well as private schools like Redhill, St Stithians College and Crawford College. There are also numerous preschools in the area.