It’s not always easy to find a home that meets all the requirements a buyer may have, especially if budget is a consideration. However, it’s important for purchasers to decide where they want to live – whether in an urban hub where they can make the most of a vibrant nightlife and other activities, or if they should opt for a suburban lifestyle with a choice of excellent schools and leisure amenities. Tyron Baird of HB Realty says there are, however, suburbs that offer the best of both, with property options to suit all budgets.
SANDOWN A SUBURB WITH ALL THE PERKS
“Sandown, tucked between Morningside and Sandton in Gauteng, is a good example of an area with various property options, including new developments, that afford ample opportunity for young professionals and families to enjoy a secure, world-class lifestyle that is not only desirable, but accessible,” he says.
More than 44% of recent buyers in Sandown are between the ages of 18 and 35 according to recent data, says Baird. “These are most likely young professionals and first-time buyers. Meanwhile, 38% are between the ages of 36 and 49. Interestingly, this age group makes up the lion’s share of recent sellers, suggesting that Sandown is an attractive springboard for growing families as they transition from an apartment to a larger home with a private garden,” he says. “They are able to acquire the additional space they need to accommodate their changing needs, without too much budgetary adjustment.”
KEY BENEFITS LIVING IN A SUBURB
Baird suggests the following key benefits of living in a centrally located suburb close to a thriving commercial hub:
1. Value for money. Residential property prices tend to increase the closer one gets to a commercial hub. Sandown, as an example, offers the same prime location and access to top schools and amenities as its neighbours, but its prices are more accessible.
2. Peace of mind. Safety is always a priority, so opt for developments that offer additional security measures. Look for developments and homes within a boomed neighbourhood that also provide perimeter electric fencing, CCTV surveillance, armed response or a panic button linked to an off-site response room.
3. Return on investment. If you’re buying an investment property, it’s worth finding out more about the rental market and the area’s potential return on investment. Conveniently close to Sandton and the Gautrain, Sandown has a robust rental market. Priced more competitively than some of its neighbours, it offers excellent security and proximity to work and schools.
4. Suburban bliss. Most families move to the suburbs to be close to a choice of prestigious schools. But there are areas that offer residential convenience, without diminishing any of the appeal of urban living. Many suburbs have an array of popular shopping centres and entertainment spots, as well as top-notch medical facilities. These areas have become flourishing nodes within their own right, and offer many of the same retail and commercial opportunities as their more established neighbours.
5. Quality of life. The pandemic has impacted housing preferences, with quality of life becoming increasingly important. Homeowners’ priorities have changed. More people are now working from home, so excellent fibre and internet connectivity have become non-negotiable. These properties usually have a secure garden, or access to a green belt.
THE FINN
“With new developments, such as The Finn in Sandown, offering exceptional value for money in sought-after suburbs, it is possible to enjoy the best of both worlds – living in a secure area with a strong sense of community, while being close to world-class amenities within a vibrant hub,” says Baird.
The Finn is a new residential development, marketed by HB Realty, that makes a luxury lifestyle in the prestigious Sandown Sentral suburb, less than 2km from Sandton, broadly accessible.
With homes starting at a competitive R2,795m for two bedrooms, and R3,195m for three bedrooms, The Finn will appeal to professionals and young families. Pet-friendly and fibre-ready, with private walled gardens and garaging options, The Finn’s 28 duplexes strike a welcome balance between comfort and style.
