The growing possibility that a life with some form of lockdown restrictions, face masks and social distancing may well persist throughout the year - and possibly beyond - is likely to impact the lifestyle choices property owners make when buying or renting a new home.
This is according to Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group, who says, in a time of social distancing, it makes sense for people to minimise their interactions with other people - outside of family and a close circle of friends. One of the ways to achieve this is to remain in one’s neighbourhood - shopping, eating (when permissible) and using the amenities in the area. This suggests an increase in activity in ‘Main Street’ or neighbourhood shopping centres - rather than large shopping malls, which attract large numbers of shoppers from a wide area, says Golding.
He says another way to minimise interaction with others is to live and work in an estate - which increasingly offers retail outlets, sporting amenities, schools, medical facilities and offices or business hubs, or is in close proximity to these amenities.
“Lifestyle estates, especially those within easy reach of cities and major hubs, have proven increasingly attractive in recent years for a number of reasons, including security - with open spaces including play areas for children and 24-hour patrols, among other features, all contributing to a less stressful family-oriented way of life with safe open spaces for exercise, sporting pursuits and recreation,” says Golding.
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“This makes them far less accessible to members of the public, thereby reducing exposure to external influences, plus there is the potential for more spacious homes, reducing the feeling of being confined to a small space during a lockdown.”
Amenities such as schools, child-minding and shopping facilities and other activities on site all contribute to a sense of security from a health and safety point of view. They also provide highly attractive environs in which to live, with fewer maintenance hassles. Some estates lend themselves to multi-generational living with a wide variety of options available - such as more affordable apartment and cottage units catering for young couples or retirees, over and above the more spacious homes on offer.
The appeal of Midrand, located in central Gauteng, is its close proximity to almost everything. Halfway between Centurion and Sandton, this part of the Johannesburg metro is also home to the likes of Kayalami and the Mall of Africa.
Remax area specialist Jason Klein says with the rising demand for safe estate living and world-class security, there is continuous development in Midrand, which is creating the demand to live within this dynamic CBD.
“Some of the largest international and local companies have chosen to move their head offices to Waterfall, bringing with them a diverse mix of employees, from top execs to packers, who can all choose to live within the parameters of Waterfall,” he says.
READ: Waterfall retains World's Best title for 4th year running
With price tags ranging up to R37.9 million, these impressive estate homes in the booming Midrand, meet all the characteristics for luxury living. Take a look…
1. A formal, grand and majestic home in Waterfall Equestrian Estate for R37.9 million
This 1 300sqm gracious home in Waterfall Equestrian Estate, Midrand, offers world-class living, palatial proportions and privacy. The luxurious home has koi ponds, a covered patio, five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, a stately double volume entrance hall, landscaped gardens and study.
Click here to view and watch the video.
2. Neo-Mediterranean styled villa in Midrand for R 12.45 million
Nestled in the sought-after Saddlebrook Country Estate, Midrand, this exceptional property boasts breathtaking views of the Johannesburg skyline and Magaliesburg Mountains. The home offers six bedrooms, six bathrooms, a boma, koi ponds, water feature, wine cellar and jacuzzi.
Click here to view and watch the video.
3. A true masterpiece in Kyalami Estate for R10.5 million
This architecture designed home in Kyalami Estate, Midrand, embrace the warmth of family and offers wonderful quality, comfort and luxury. The home has six bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, elegant dining room, wine cellar, gym, sauna, built-in braai and sparkling pool.
Click here to view and watch the video.
4. Ultra-modern, sophisticated haven in Saddlebrook Estate for R16.75 million
Set in a 10 000sqm stand in Saddlebrook Estate, Midrand, this villa offers blissful country living in beautiful surrounds. The home has a gourmet kitchen, four bedroom suites each with private balconies, a cinema, sparkling pool, jacuzzi, bar, water feature and spectacular garden.
Click here to view and watch the video.
5. Industrial chic in Helderfontein Estate for R13 million
Located on the river bend and orientated to provide unhindered views downriver, this three-storey double-store home in Helderfontein Estate, Midrand is an architectural masterpiece with designer finishes and fittings. It has a wraparound balcony, outdoor entertainment area with bar, four bedrooms and five bathrooms.
Click here to view and watch the 3D tour.
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