Weekend homes on the Vaal River, in and around Parys, remain popular among Gauteng's business people and units in exclusive golf and nature estates are their top choices.
This four bedroom home in Parys has spacious living areas, a bar, air conditioner and a sprinkler system. It is on the market for R1.595 million through Chas Everitt International.This is according to Gerrie Joubert, of the local Chas Everitt International franchise, who says the fact that it is an easy one-hour drive from Johannesburg is one of the reasons why Parys has become such a popular weekend destination. "And if you add the town’s lively weekend tourist culture, as well as the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Vaal, it’s easy to see why the area has such high appeal."
He says high-profile weekend buyers mostly target the two local golf estates and the Vaal de Grace Nature Reserve. Stands in the nature reserve are available at prices of between R700 000 and R1.3 million, and buyers are typically nature lovers drawn by the pristine setting.
Residents have access to the river, where birdwatching is a favourite pastime. Several game species roam the reserve and buyers have to abide by strict building guidelines to preserve the ecological integrity of the reserve.
Stands in the adjacent Vaal de Grace Golf Estate, which is about 5 kilometres from Parys on the Vredefort road, are currently selling at between R600 000 and R1.4 million, depending on size and location. The estate is built on an island, which adds to the seclusion and cachet of the development.
Joubert says prices of stands in the Parys Golf & Country Estate on the banks of the Vaal are slightly cheaper at between R350 000 and R800 000. "This adds to its popularity, as does the fact that residents have private boating access to about 8 kilometres of the river.” The estate also offers a restaurant and various sporting facilities besides golf, including tennis and squash.
He says the estate is also more developed than the Vaal de Grace, and there are houses available for resale at prices from R1.5 million to around R5 million. These homes are large and well-appointed. Between four and five bedrooms are on offer, which allows for easy entertaining of friends, family and business associates over weekends.
Retiring in Parys is also a popular option because of the peaceful lifestyle within easy reach of specialist medical and other facilities in Johannesburg. “Retirement units with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, priced between R500 000 and R900 000 are most in demand, but stock is limited,” says Joubert.
Meanwhile, he says, commercial development in the area is keeping pace with the continued influx of new residents. Local chain stores are acquiring larger premises, banks are opening new branches, and a new shopping centre will shortly open its doors. Road infrastructure is also being upgraded.
“Growing numbers of weekend tourists attracted by the many antique shops and recreational opportunities in this area are also boosting the local economy, and there are excellent opportunities in the hospitality industry. For a start, there is definitely room for more bed and breakfast, as well as self-catering accommodation businesses,” he says.
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