Developer News Up to date news and insights for the property developer and their professional team. What would you like to read? CommunityIndustryAll news Advertisement How insurance works in layered estates 2 min readUnderstand the importance of insurance in Sectional Title schemes and how it protects your property and community infrastructure. Read MoreEnsuring Security in residential estates a comprehensive approach 3 min readFind out how to bolster security in residential estates to safeguard against increasing threats and ensure resident safety. Read More Advertisement Pezula Golf Estate’s renovations < 1 min readExplore the Pezula Golf Estate with its modern amenities, stylish gym, and upgraded facilities for a premium lifestyle. Read MoreWhat you can and can’t do in an Exclusive Use Area 3 min readUnderstand the Exclusive Use Area and your rights within it. Know the rules before making changes to your property. Read MoreMapping Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate < 1 min readSee how Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate improves data management with a digital spatial database and interactive mapping features. Read MoreLiving by Design 3 min readExplore the complexities of retirement and learn how financial planning can lead to a fulfilling life after work. Read More Regal Escapes: Where travel becomes a personal story 5 min readDiscover Regal Escapes, where luxury travel meets creativity and sophistication. Join the journey of two visionary founders. Read MoreKingswood’s New Clubhouse Nears Completion 2 min readExplore Kingswood’s new clubhouse, a vibrant hub with state-of-the-art facilities for residents and golf patrons alike. Read MoreA new way to live in Mthatha – Secure, Sustainable Living in Eso’s Nest Eco Estate 2 min readDiscover Eso’s Nest Eco Estate, where sustainable design meets urban amenities in Mthatha’s scenic farmland. Read MoreMicro apartments 3 min readDiscover the unique lifestyle of micro apartments and how communal spaces enhance urban living without the cramped feeling. Read MoreShould your HOA have a rental policy? 3 min readUnderstand the importance of an HOA rental policy for maintaining property values and community standards in your estate. Read MoreInvesting in the Future of Gauteng 2 min readExplore Gauteng, the powerhouse of South Africa, and discover the exciting opportunities for investors and developers in the region. Read MoreEstate Living International Property Roadshow: Mauritius Edition 3 min readJoin the Estate Living International Property Roadshow to explore luxury estates in Mauritius and secure exclusive pricing and insights. Read MoreThree Cape Winelands farms on the auction block 2 min readInvest in your countryside lifestyle with farms on the auction, featuring Talana Hill’s historic homestead and vineyard potential. Read MoreCity of Ekurhuleni Property Rates are increasing — Here’s how to check if you’re paying too much 2 min readUnderstand how property rates are determined and learn how to object to overvalued municipal valuations for your home. Read MoreSimbithi’s Green Spaces Prove Crucial for Migrating Birds This Winter 3 min readExplore Simbithi’s Green Spaces, a thriving environment for the endangered Spotted Ground Thrush and unique wildlife. Read MoreInnovation – Estate Living April Edition 2 min readExplore innovation in estate living with smart solutions and the groundbreaking delivery service Dilli It. Transform your community. Read MoreGowrie Village: A village in a landscape 3 min readExplore Gowrie Village, a charming town near Nottingham Road, steeped in the rich history of KwaZulu-Natal. Read MoreLake Michelle estate takes another step towards self reliance 7 min readDiscover how Lake Michelle benefits from innovative solar solutions for critical infrastructure and environmental management. Read MoreVision by Milstead & Hayter 3 min readExplore the innovative luxury design by Milstead & Hayter, where bespoke interiors meet estate-specific aesthetics. Read MoreThe future of luxury estates: intelligent living starts here 3 min readExplore the world of luxury estates where modern architecture meets intelligent design and effortless living for a secure lifestyle. Read MoreANNUAL SURVEY JOHN COLLIER 5 min readExplore the findings of the Annual Survey John Collier on environmental compliance and sustainability within South African golf clubs. Read MoreAll you need to know about entry and exit rental inspections 3 min readDiscover the importance of entry and exit rental inspections in maintaining transparency and protecting the rights of landlords and tenants. Read MoreThe right way to deal with levy defaulters 4 min readLearn about the consequences faced by levy defaulters and how trustees can navigate the recovery process effectively. Read MoreTop 8 housing needs of the over 65s 3 min readExplore the housing needs of over 65 individuals in South Africa. Understand the increasing demand and expectations for quality living. Read MorePearl Valley’s golf club has a new owner 2 min readExciting news: Pearl Valley’s golf club has a new owner, Philippine billionaire Enrique Razon, known for his golf passion. Read MoreCreating value with running trails 3 min readDeveloping trails in estates not only adds value to properties but provides safe and healthy opportunities for residents – and also creates unique selling features with little investment. Read MoreWhen does sectional title levy debt prescribe? 3 min readExplore the intricacies of levy debt and when certain debts prescribe under the Prescription Act in South Africa. Read MoreThe 2025 Budget and the South African housing market: Analysis 2 min readExplore the 2025 budget and its impact on real estate costs, affordability, and investment opportunities in the housing market. Read MoreProperty finance – what developers need to know 4 min readDevelopers large and small need finance to start their development project – whether they be residential or commercial. Read MoreBeating budget blues 3 min readSave money and trim your budget with these practical budget tips. Learn how to identify unnecessary expenses and make smarter financial decisions. Read MoreWhere to invest your extra cash 3 min readMaximize your cash by investing wisely. Learn how to pay off debts, assess your financial position, and secure your future. Read MoreConsidering Investing in Business Premises? 3 min readDiscover how Business Partners Ltd can help entrepreneurs secure business premises. Financing options available for office spaces, warehouses, and retail outlets. Read MoreA word on Kingswood’s subcommittees and clubhouse progress 3 min readGet an update on the progress of Kingswood Golf Estate’s new clubhouse and learn about the subcommittees overseeing key sectors. Read MoreRoles in Sectional Title Schemes: Understanding Who Does What 3 min readDiscover the essential roles in sectional title schemes: owners, trustees, and managing agents. Learn how their collaboration leads to a well-run property. Read MoreComprehensive Financial Management for BC/HOAs with Mafadi Property Services 2 min readEfficient and transparent financial management for BC/HOAs. Mafadi Property Services provides end-to-end solutions to streamline your financial processes. Read More2024 Performance and Growth Report < 1 min readFind out how community living can drive growth and engagement. Explore our growth report and discover the value of residential estate property. Read MoreEnhancing residential estate landscapes 6 min readDiscover how enhancing residential estate landscapes goes beyond just aesthetics. Learn about the functional benefits, strategic planning, and outcomes-based approach. Read MoreWhat technologies support community living 2 min readDiscover how Twenty 4 Seven Security Solutions addressed the challenge of fragmented technologies in community living. Read MoreEstate Living – Community Scheme Specialist < 1 min readEstate Living is the leading resource within the residential community. It is a trusted source of information about living in a homeowner association or sectional title development. Read MoreHow to prevent and resolve rental disputes 2 min readRenting a property can often lead to disputes between landlords and tenants, ranging from issues of non-payment of the rent to disagreements over maintenance, noise, municipal charges and overcrowding. Read MoreNine key things to know when moving to Mauritius 4 min readThis year presents an optimal window to relocate to Mauritius. Experience political stability, a booming economy, and a tax-friendly haven for investors and remote workers. Read More2025 Estate Living Property Development Event Dates < 1 min read2025 Estate Living Events – Join us as a sponsor and position your brand at the forefront of this dynamic sector! Read MoreThe big benefits of individual water meters in Sectional Title 3 min readWith the steep rises in municipal tariffs this year, water usage has become a hot topic in Sectional Title (ST) complexes, where the benefits of individual water meters – and especially pre-paid meters – are increasingly being recognised Read MoreSpring Cleaning 4 min readOne of any estate’s most important assets will be its common areas, many of which are designed to add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the development, and are a very real element in enhancing property values. Read MoreGood governance is the backbone of a successful community 3 min readThis article explores the significance of governance in community associations, the best practices for implementation, the challenges that may arise, and the different governance models available to associations in South Africa. Read MoreYour privacy vs your security 4 min readThey know everything about you. They know who you are, where you live, who your friends are, what their names and ID numbers are, what car they drive … and they have hours of video footage of you entering and leaving your home. Read MoreTipping points and what they mean for management 4 min readThat old saying, ‘it’s the last straw that breaks the camel’s back’, is the perfect description of tipping points. Read MoreWhite is the new green 4 min readWinter’s over and, in this case, that’s one big relief. 2024 was the wettest winter in the Western Cape since we started recording rainfall, and it was close to record-breaking cold over much of the rest of the country, too. Read MoreStay cool and keep it together 4 min readYour fridge is the centre of your kitchen, possibly of your home, but it’s not always a nice place to visit. Read MoreProperty Purchases vs. Luxury goods purchase 4 min readAs global trends shift, South Africa’s property landscape is evolving in response to new buyer demands, driven by sustainability, technology, and multi-functional living spaces. Read MoreNegotiation is key when purchasing a property 2 min readFinding the right property is hard enough but negotiating the right price and related fees can be harder, especially if one party is unwilling. Sometimes you may need to walk away from the deal. Read MoreUnderstanding the current landscape 2 min readIn the ever-evolving field of community association management, staying ahead requires constant evaluation and adaptation. Read MoreUnderstanding governance rules 2 min readIn the management of community schemes, understanding the different legal frameworks governing non-profit company (NPC) homeowners associations (HOAs) and sectional title (ST) schemes is crucial. Read MoreCondonation of late review application And Procedural Fairness In Hearings 3 min readThe Lund v. CSOS judgment serves as a critical reminder of the standards required in CSOS conciliations and adjudications. Read MoreSuccession planning and recruitment 4 min readThe community association management industry in South Africa stands at a critical juncture, grappling with issues that could determine its future. Read MoreEstate management: integrating smart city innovation 9 min readThe fusion of smart city innovation, ESG criteria, and resilience engineering may be the answer to the diverse and dynamic global challenges presented to community administrations. Read MoreWelgevonden Estate, Stellenbosch 3 min readIn terms of location, Welgevonden Estate in Stellenbosch undoubtedly holds a prime position. Read MoreHelderberg Retirement Village 3 min readSituated on the slopes of the Helderberg mountains in the Western Cape, Helderberg Village offers a secure and unique lifestyle that supports a vibrant and active community of residents, complete with every amenity you could ever Read MoreCopperleaf Golf and Country Estate 3 min readSet amid the lush landscapes of Gauteng, Copperleaf Golf and Country Estate epitomises refined living and premium amenities. Read MorePublic policies for the residential community industry 5 min readExecutive summary of public policies: ARC developed a range of policies, a summary of which follows, and all community associations are encouraged to use these as a basis for the implementation of their own policies within their communities. Read MoreAn introduction to community association living 4 min readWelcome to the world of community association living, where governance meets community, and where the roles you assume as directors and trustees can profoundly shape the lives of residents. Read MoreThe role of the board: a guiding hand for the community 2 min readThe board serves as the backbone of any community association, with a mandate to uphold the values and regulations that keep the community thriving. But what exactly are the rights and responsibilities that come with this crucial role? Read MoreCreating sound rules and regulations 6 min readMuch has been reported on the rights of a community association to determine rules for the community, rights given to the board by their Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI)/Constitution or other governing documents Read MoreManaging financial reserves 3 min readIn the intricate world of community associations, managing financial reserves isn’t just a box to check; it’s a strategic necessity. Read MoreDispute resolution: crafting harmony in community living 3 min readIn the intricate world of residential community associations, conflict is an unavoidable reality. As stewards of these shared spaces, community leaders and managers bear the crucial responsibility of navigating disputes with tact and fairness. Read MoreEmergency preparedness and disaster management 3 min readIn the dynamic landscape of South Africa, where the spectre of natural and man-made disasters looms large, the resilience of residential communities is paramount. Read MoreEmpowering community associations 4 min readManaging residential community associations in South Africa requires more than just overseeing daily operations; it calls for a strategic approach that harmoniously blends contracts, service level agreements (SLAs) and request for proposal (RFP) procedures. Read MoreAn overview of potential claims for relief under Section 39 of the CSOS Act 4 min readSection 39 of the Community Schemes Ombud Service Act of 2011 (CSOS Act) provides a list of specific orders that can be sought through applications to CSOS. Read MoreWhat is mould? 3 min readMould is a type of fungus that grows mainly on organic matter, and is essential for the process of decomposition. Read MoreThe Swiss cheese model of risk management 4 min readWhatever your field, whether you are project managing a multibillion-rand development, overseeing the security on a small estate, getting the kids to school on time, or running a large hospital, you need to manage risk, minimise accidents, and ensure the smooth flow of a number of related tasks. Read MoreWeylandts share their experience of the Estate Living Durban Property Development Event < 1 min readIn this exclusive video, Lian Louw from Weylandts shares invaluable insights on the immense value of being part of this premier event—for both delegates and sponsors. Read MoreSmart management is cleverer than you think 4 min readSome residential estates are very big so it can be difficult to know what’s going on, especially in the wilder sections. Even if your estate is not strictly a wildlife estate, it’s important to know the condition of the veld and the health – or otherwise – of animal communities. Read MoreA different view on the North South Divide 4 min readEither way, you’ll find a string of coastal settlements, beautiful beaches, great residential estates, and more golf courses than you can shake a stick at. Read MoreIs your house on the market but not selling here are 6 possible reasons 3 min readIt’s no secret that factors like higher repo rates and economic uncertainty have affected the property market with homes in many areas lingering on the market for longer these days. Read MoreDo restaurants make residential estates more attractive? 4 min readRestaurants are one of the increasingly common and popular features on residential estates. Some, like Nooitgedacht Village in Stellenbosch, want to have multiple facilities on site when it comes to foodie pleasures. So, besides restaurants they want to add a deli and coffee shop, for example. Read MoreShould you consider moving to a residential farming estate? 4 min readFarming estates has become a trend that embraces modern conveniences and security with a simpler, sustainable lifestyle Read MoreHigh Court case could be a plus for owners of hijacked buildings 2 min readIn a move that could have significant implications for the owners of inner-city buildings that have been ‘hijacked’, two property-owning companies recently lodged an application in the Johannesburg High Court to compel the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) Read MoreThe Benefits of Outsourcing Landscaping Maintenance for Your Estate or Community Scheme 2 min readOutsourcing landscaping maintenance offers a compelling array of benefits that often surpass the advantages of a DIY approach. Read MoreTrending small 4 min readIs bigger always better? Not always – and especially not if you want the convenience of living close to your workplace, and you happen to work in one of the world’s increasingly congested cities. Read MoreIs your lease agreement legal? 4 min readThe proposed new legislation not only provides for all residential leases to be in writing but also states that the tenant’s deposit must be held in an interest-bearing account. Read MoreAre estate agents becoming redundant? 2 min readThe use of technology in the property industry has lately become a cutting-edge topic, as the real estate sector has been accused of being slow in adopting tech tools, and most transactions still occur through agents and property brokers. Read More14 interior design secrets which make a big impact with minimal fuss 4 min readThere comes a time when everyone’s home could do with a décor makeover but not everyone has the confidence to do it themselves – nor the perceived budget necessary to do so. Read MoreShort vs Long term rental 5 min readProperty remains one of the most stable long-term investments, especially during challenging economic times when most other options like stocks and bonds can wildly fluctuate, which is why most HNW individuals have a strong property portfolio. Read MoreThe hybrid work revolution is transforming the commercial landscape and working communities 3 min readThe rise of remote and flexible work is reshaping the commercial landscape, challenging the traditional office model. With more employees working remotely, demand for traditional office space has decreased, leading to increased vacancies. Read MoreApartments in demand, up to R70,000/month to rent, R50 million to buy 3 min readWhile more than half of all property sales nationally are still for freehold property, demand for apartments continues to rise exponentially with buyers prepared to pay ever higher prices, according to the Seeff Property Group. Read MoreLuxury buyers shift to Hout Bay 3 min readThe small enclave of Riverside Terrace in Hout Bay is home to some of the most exclusive properties on the Cape Atlantic Seaboard. Read MoreKZN property demand shifts to Midlands/uMngeni and Richards Bay 3 min readThe KZN Midlands/uMngeni area just north of Pietermaritzburg encompassing Howick and Nottingham Road is seeing high demand for property. Read MoreCoastal property prices still rising faster than inland areas 4 min readCoastal property markets continue to perform better compared to inland areas according to the Seeff Property Group. Read MoreFive property investment strategies for novice investors 4 min readWith growing economic uncertainty and increasingly volatile markets, property is becoming an increasingly attractive investment option as it’s a tangible asset and traditionally less volatile than stocks and bonds Read More11 Expensive renovation mistakes to avoid 4 min readWe all know that renovating a tired, older property has numerous significant benefits, including improving functionality and aesthetics for the homeowner, making it more attractive to potential buyers when the time comes to sell – and upgrades also usually add to the value of the property. Read More8 costs that landlords often underedtimate when setting expectations 3 min readInvesting in rental properties can be a lucrative venture, but it’s essential for landlords to set realistic expectations and account for all potential expenses before taking the plunge. Read MoreTiny houses 5 min readUnless you’ve been living under a rock with no internet or cell reception, you will have been bombarded with cute, adorable, clever tiny house ideas. But is there any place for the tiny house movement here in South Africa, where most of the population live in ‘houses’ that would make a tiny house seem uber-luxurious? Perhaps the most important thing the tiny house movement can do is to get people to rethink what is necessary, and what is possible. And that’s just what any smart developer should be doing. Read MoreBuilding well for living well 4 min readExplore the concept of living well through the WELL system, enhancing health in buildings and promoting vibrant lifestyles. Read MoreIdemia – Estate security professionals < 1 min readLearn how this innovative product ensures top-notch protection, seamless integration, and peace of mind for both residents and management Read MoreEstate Living Kwazulu Natal Property Development, Management and Investment Event 2 min readJoin Estate Living and our expert speakers as we discuss key topics like water resources and infrastructure, security, technology, financing solutions and property requirements for the next generation of investors. Read MorePay your rental deposit with bitcoin 2 min readIn May this year we explored whether banks would accept bitcoin as deposits when people applied for home loans. Sadly, banks are nowhere near accepting cryptocurrency. Read MoreSpotlight on security 3 min readTechnological advances in the security field, specifically involving the use of drones, are changing the approach to safeguarding industrial properties and agricultural concerns. Read MoreEmpowering Communities 2 min readIn the intricate landscape of communal housing development, effective infrastructure management serves as the bedrock of resilience. Read MorePodcast: Here’s What You Need to Know About Retirement Villages and Estates < 1 min readExplore the benefits, operations, and trends in retirement living for individuals over 50. Discover why retirement communities are gaining popularity and how they can enhance your golden years. Read MoreItems that could bottleneck your WiFi at home 2 min readIdentifying potential bottlenecks to your WiFi network, so that you can eliminate them and get back to enjoying fast speeds. Read MoreConnect with the world – Hosting 2 min readWith Afrihost, building your online presence is quick, easy and affordable Read MoreThe Digital Crusaders: Generation Z property investment trends 2 min readGeneration Z, born into the digital age, is revolutionizing the way property investments are made. Read MoreMeeting Generation Z’s Digital, Environmental, and Social Requirements in Property Development 3 min readAs the real estate landscape evolves, it’s crucial for property developers and managers to adapt to the changing preferences and demands of Generation Z. This report from Estate Living outlines strategies to cater to Gen Z’s digital, environmental, and social requirements in property development. Read MoreWe take a scenic look at Preekstoel Beach Estate’s unparalleled natural beauty 2 min readWhen looking for a beach lifestyle estate, proximity to the beach is a major contributing factor as to whether or not to invest in a beach estate. In this article, we look at Preekstoel Beach Estate’s incredible surroundings with its majestic mountains in the background, beautiful nature reserves, and pristine beaches. Read MoreDon’t let the taps run dry in your community housing scheme 3 min readCommunity Housing Schemes should as a matter of urgency be making sure that they have a secure water supply system that is independent of the municipal infrastructure. Read MoreThe Drone as a Management Tool in 4 min readThe utilisation of drones with multispectral capabilities thus exemplifies a technologically driven approach to estate management, promoting the sustainability and vibrancy of the natural environment. Read MoreSmart towns combat load shedding by becoming Eskom-proof 3 min readIn the face of South Africa’s persistent load shedding crisis, small towns across the country are pioneering solutions to liberate themselves from dependence on Eskom, our only national power supplier. Read MoreEstate Living Property Development, Management and Investment Event 2 min readJoin Estate Living and our expert speakers as we discuss key topics like water resources and infrastructure, security, technology, financing solutions and property requirements for the next generation of investors. Read MoreGuidelines for Architectural and Design Policies 11 min readResidential community associations play a pivotal role in maintaining the aesthetic quality and value of neighbourhoods in South Africa. Architectural and design standards form the foundation of these efforts, ensuring that properties are developed, renovated, and maintained in a manner that enhances the community’s overall visual appeal and property value. Read MoreEstate Living Mauritius Roadshow Recap < 1 min readEstate Living was very pleased to host the Mauritius Roadshow in partnership with Bijou Résidence, Harcourts Offshore and Ariston Capital. This exclusive event ran from 12 – 14 March 2024 and offered investors a taste of the Mauritian lifestyle and all its rewards. Read MoreINVESTING IN INTEGRATED MEDICAL SOLUTIONS 2 min readThe trends within medical development projects range from virtual healthcare, proactive healthcare approaches, and preventative care to frail care centres in and around residential areas. Read MoreProperty Development and Section 12J 3 min readThe Section 12J tax allowance has introduced an exciting new asset class that has attracted over R6 billion within a very short period of time. Let’s explore how this can benefit developers. Read MoreYour Logistics Partner for Property Development 2 min readWe understand that managing the delivery of materials and fixtures from suppliers to construction sites is crucial. Read MoreMoving to a Retirement Community 2 min readYou’re deep into the empty nest syndrome, with two, three or maybe even four empty bedrooms in your big house, and you want to move somewhere smaller, more manageable. Read MoreGarlicke & Bousfield’s blueprint to success 3 min readGarlicke & Bousfield is a well-known law firm in South Africa. Founded in 1875, it is one of the oldest law firms in the country and has established a reputation for providing high-quality legal services to its clients. Read MoreAll aboard- The AI Rocket 4 min readArtificial Intelligence is the new rave investment trend, and at the forefront of this sector stands NVIDIA Corporation. Read MoreZapping Around 4 min readAccording to Johlene Wasserman, a community scheme specialist from JW Consultancy, the answer largely depends on the rules established by most members within the estate. Read MoreHow to finance going off grid 3 min readAfter more than a decade of load shedding, more South Africans are looking at off grid solutions that allow them to carry on with their daily lives. Alternative power comes with a hefty price tag though, but some banks are now offering a range of funding options to lessen the financial blow. We look at what these are and if they really are worth it. Read MorePure VoIP by Afrihost 2 min readDitch the old landline and make affordable voice calls to anywhere in the world with Pure VoIP. Read MoreEmbark on an Elevated Lifestyle 2 min readIn the exclusive world of luxury estates, Sungrow is poised to make a grand entrance with the upcoming arrival of its Residential Hybrid Three-Phase Inverters SH15T&SH25T. Expected to debut in South Africa by February 2024, this state-of-the-art product is not just a technological innovation, it’s a gateway to a new era of sophisticated smart living, perfectly tailored for the discerning readers of Estate Living. Read MoreTransforming Bellville with revitalisation of New Boston Centre 4 min readWith the aim of contributing to revitalising the Bellville CBD, Brönn Properties, under the experienced guidance of Alewyn and Gerdus Brönn, embarked on an ambitious project to refurbish the New Boston Centre. Read MoreCommon challenges of exclusive use being misinterpreted as ownership in sectional title schemes 2 min readSectional title complexes frequently face challenges related to unauthorized alterations made to common property areas. Read MoreSectionalisation 4 min readDespite the country’s economic woes and the somewhat lacklustre performance of the housing market, stock shortages are looming in many areas – and not only in those where ongoing semigration has led to a spike in demand. Read MoreEstate Living on Hot 102.7 FM < 1 min readEstate Living had a business segment with Nzinga Qunta on HOT 102.7 FM. We discussed community schemes and shared insights. Read MoreArrear Levy Funding: paving the way for financial stability and peace of mind 3 min readThe current economic climate has taken a toll on people’s finances and mental well-being. Rising interest rates and increased cost of living left individuals struggling to make ends meet. Read More3 Property Management Trends for 2024 Scheme Executives must know about 3 min readAs a Scheme Executive, you carry the weighty responsibility of overseeing your sectional title community’s management and upkeep. The decisions you make shape everything from property values and growth potential to residents’ quality of life. Read MoreSA property market set for big rebound in 2024 4 min readThe local property market will see a resurgence in 2024 predicts Renier Kriek, Managing Director at Sentinel Homes. Read MoreFostering Harmony and Governance 6 min readThe CSOS was established in terms of the Community Schemes Ombud Service Act, 2011 (Act No 9 of 2011) to regulate the conduct of parties within community schemes. Read MoreOwn a piece of a vineyard 4 min readThere’s more to offshore investing than money laundering and preserving mega wealth. It’s also about the lifestyle – sitting back with a glass of wine and your little piece of offshore paradise. Read MoreRound houses 5 min readFrom Transkei to Alaska, round houses have been the norm for centuries – more probably millennia. In fact, it was only with the (in some case quite strong) encouragement of missionaries that Christian converts started to build ‘civilised’ square houses in southern Africa. Read MoreCooking with gas 3 min readMany serious cooks swear by gas hobs. They’re reliable, incredibly controllable, efficient, cost-efficient and – best of all – they work during load shedding, as long as you have a box of matches nearby. And you can’t beat the aesthetics of a gleaming stainless steel gas hob. But how safe is cooking with gas? Read MoreEdible cement 3 min readFood waste, if not composted, is one of the worst contributors to greenhouse gases, as it decomposes into methane. So Tokyo University’s new research into using food waste to make cement offers an innovative way to sequester all that carbon, and – perhaps – create some tasty buildings. Read MoreFacial recognition 6 min readWhether it’s unlocking your phone or accessing your banking app, facial recognition technology is everywhere. It’s a tool that is rapidly gaining popularity with banks, security companies, law enforcement, retailers and – of course – social media platforms. And, like every tool from a claw hammer to a chainsaw or a steamroller, this tool can be used constructively or destructively. Or, if not actually destructively, at least creepily. Read MoreHow to make every place a happy place 3 min readThe plethora of ‘information’ about how colour affects mood has had property managers considering painting their facilities green for calming, or orange to increase food sales. But the relationship between colour and mood is not an exact science, and one person’s happy colour may well make another person positively nauseous – at least when it comes to paint. But available evidence indicates that different coloured light can reliably affect a person’s state of mind. Read MoreWater conservation 2 min read The real estate industry has a significant role to play in water conservation and by embracing new tech it can help foster a culture of responsible water consumption Read MoreWhy estates should join The Arc & Estate Living partnership 2 min readThe Association of Residential Communities (ARC) has been in existence for over 10 years, with 11 founder members, 10 chapters around the country and over 300 member estates, home to over 200,000 residents and representing 58% of the market in respect of number of homes. Read More13sex Taxbreak promotes benefits for developers and investors alike 4 min readWe’ve always known that the popular Section 12J had an expiry date, but we assumed (hoped) it would be extended. Well, it won’t be. So, if you want to take advantage of it, you had better move very, very fast to get in before the 30 June cut-off. But it’s not all bad news. While 12J is on the way out, Lucky 13sex is still around. Read MoreHow can developers avoid legal battles with communities over land claims 4 min readLast year GroundUp reported how the homes of 15 families on Tilly’s Farm were demolished by Dutch-South African property company MaxxLiving. The Land Claims Court ordered the developer to compensate for this community’s relocation. Read MoreDeveloper Profile – Dandy Matumela 3 min readEstate Living sat down with Dandy Matamela, Chairman of the BeMore Group of Companies, to find out more about his development company’s unique approach to developing homes for the rental property market. Read MoreEmpowering prosperity 3 min readIn an era characterised by environmental challenges and an urgent need for sustainable solutions, the role of financial institutions in shaping a positive future cannot be overstated. To steer the country toward a brighter and more sustainable future, it is imperative for South Africa’s fund management companies demonstrate how they are actively investing in companies and funds that promote renewable and sustainable practices. Read MoreHow are developers responding to the semigration trend 3 min readAs people leave their urban homes in search of safer, more affordable areas with improved service delivery and perhaps less load shedding, the South African property market is experiencing a tectonic shift, with demand surging in areas once considered idyllic but remote. Read MoreSeniors heading for the cities 2 min readThe concept of senior living has evolved over the years, with an increasing number of seniors opting for urban living instead of traditional countryside or seaside retirement. Read MoreHow to create a dog-friendly estate 3 min readPets in estates and complexes always being a bone of contention (pun intended). However, a new trend is emerging where estates are embracing dog ownership and seeing the value in creating an estate that welcomes and provides amenities for owners and their dogs. Read MoreEstate Living – 2023 Western Cape Property Development, Management, and Investment Event < 1 min readJoin Estate Living for the 2023 Western Cape Property Development, Management and Investment Event on the 19th of October at Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! Cape Town Read MoreChoosing the right fibre provider for a property development 3 min readFibre-to-the-home (FTTH) connectivity in South Africa has witnessed significant growth in 2022, driven by higher bandwidth requirements following the pandemic. As a result, Fibre Network Operators (FNOs) have engaged in a price war, but cheap doesn’t always mean cheerful. Read MoreTechnology and security – Artificial Intelligence(AI) 3 min readWith artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies infiltrating all aspects of our modern life, it is no surprise that these technologies are increasingly being integrated into security systems to improve threat detection, surveillance, and response capabilities. Read MoreWill artificial intelligence(AI) be a gamechanger for the South African construction industry? 3 min readThe integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in various industries has been transforming the way we live and work. As the construction sector in South Africa seeks innovative solutions to improve efficiency and productivity, the adoption of AI technologies for building, design, and renovation holds immense potential. Read MoreExploring the pros and cons of the rammed earth building method 4 min readAs the world increasingly seeks sustainable and eco-friendly construction methods, the ancient technique of rammed earth building has re-emerged as a viable option. Read MoreFlight traffic at residential estates 4 min readWhat is the prevalence of helipads and heliport protocols on estates today, and what is best practice when dealing with helicopter traffic in a community-living context? Read MoreFunding solution for affordable housing 3 min readAccess to capital and funding is one of the largest barriers to entry for any business and in the property development industry this is no different. Financial institutions and investors are often reluctant to provide loans to small businesses without a proven track record or collateral. Read More6 Hotel industry tricks to promote your Airbnb business 3 min readDiscover the secrets of the hotel industry’s promotional prowess including brand storytelling, visual appear and influencer collaboration. Read More7 Ways developers can reduce their environmental footprint 3 min readAs the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, every industry must contribute to sustainable practices. Read MoreAre IKEA flat-pack houses viable in South Africa? 3 min readPrefab housing does not have a great track record as an affordable option in South Africa. So could IKEA-style flat-pack houses work here like they are in the UK? Read MoreFLISP subsidy buyers can now qualify for a home loan of up to R870,000.00 5 min readGood news for property buyers, but even better news for property developers and sellers. The affordability ceiling for first-time buyers who qualify for a FLISP subsidy has been increased from the previous average home loan amount of R 680,000.00 to R 870,000. Read MoreWhat are the rules of installing solar panels on residential estates in South Africa 2 min readAs the world embraces renewable energy sources, solar power has emerged as a popular choice for homeowners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and lower their electricity costs. Read MoreHow to beat loneliness through better design 3 min readWhat can developers do to design buildings and spaces that promote engagement between residents? Clever planning can combat loneliness, according to a retirement-market expert Read MoreHow can developers design dementia-friendly residential estates 3 min readAs the global population continues to age, the prevalence of dementia is increasing. According to Circle Senior Living, 60% of people over the age of 70 experience some kind of memory issues. Read MoreIs the South African construction industry ready for 3D printing? 3 min readExamining whether the South African construction industry is ready for 3D printing. South Africa’s housing crisis could soon see a much-needed boost from 3D printing technology. Read MoreRental apartments are stealing market share from Sectional Title Sales 3 min read Examining the reasons why South Africans want to rent more than buy sectional title homes. A combination of financial pressures, changing mindsets and dramatic urbanisation is causing a major shift in the South Africa’s property sector. Read MoreUrban development leads the zero-waste way 3 min readWith increasing concerns about the environment and the impact of waste on landfills, pioneering developers recognise the need for responsible waste-management practices Read MoreEstate Living – Who We Are < 1 min readThe Estate Living platform focus on all the pillars of the property sector; from development, management, ownership, service providers and potential investors. Estate Living promotes community spirit and the value of the industry for all stakeholders. Read MoreEstate Living – Meet Our Publications < 1 min readIt’s inspiring to see how the residential estate industry is constantly adapting to the changing trends. #EstateLivingMagazine offers insight into community living in South Africa and abroad, reaching across the community to share up to date news, opportunities and best practices. Read MoreThe cost of developer finance 2 min readCommercial banks are reducing their exposure to the commercial property market. So where does this leave developers looking for finance to build their commercial properties? Read MoreWhat’s replacing 12J investments? 2 min read12J Venture Capital Company investments were launched with much fanfare and hope. The investment vehicle was named after Section 12J of South Africa’s Income Tax Act, which was introduced in 2009. Read MoreProperty sales trends 2 min readThe latest property data shows that the decline in sales volumes in estates during 2016 to 2019 saw an uptick in the post covid years and that Estates are currently offering the greatest growth in value in South Africa’s residential property market! Read MoreHow do you handle unreliable contractors? 2 min readFrom architects, interior designers and landscapers to fibre installers, marketing gurus and realtors, an estate manager will inevitably work with several contractors – sometimes several in one single day. Read MoreWhy hempcrete is becoming a very popular building material 3 min readIf you think about the word ‘hemp’ you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a mere botanical plant used for medicinal and recreational purposes. But the reality is that it’s become so much more. Read MoreFive ways ChatGPT help you manage your estate better 3 min readManaging a residential estate can be a complex and time-consuming task, with a wide range of responsibilities and challenges to navigate. From maintenance and repairs to financial management and communication with residents, there are many different aspects to consider. Read MoreShould estates take out a loan to finance the levy deficit? 3 min readHomeowners living in estates pay a monthly levy towards their community scheme. It covers monthly expenses like management fees, maintenance, insurance and security to name but a few. However, if some owners fail to pay their monthly levy community schemes can’t afford to pay these costs. Read MoreHow long will the building industry suffer from supply chain issues? 3 min readGlobal supply chains have been disrupted by geopolitical instability, the pandemic, climate change, and a myriad of other reasons. Saint-Gobain experts give their view on when the building industry could see an end to it. Read MoreCan you get a tax rebate for going solar? 3 min readIn a bid to reduce the pressure on Eskom, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced a new tax incentive last month, to encourage South African homeowners to invest in clean electricity generation. As part of the new scheme, homeowners who install rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) panels will get a tax rebate of up to 25%. Read MoreThe future of estate security 3 min readThere is no doubt that an increasingly pressing concern for homeowners, estate security and property managers is the continual increase in crime. Statistics released in the Governance, Public Safety and Justice Survey show that 983,000 households in South Africa experienced housebreaking incidences during 2021 and 2022. Read MoreWhat you need to know about Gap Cover 3 min readGap cover is supposed to cover the deficit between your private healthcare professionals’ rates and what cover your medical aid rate covers. Usually, medical aid companies in South Africa at 100%, 200% and 300% but some specialists can charge far more. Read MoreWill developers be able to qualify for load-shedding relief? 3 min readAfter 200 days of load shedding last year, and not a single day without power cuts since the beginning of 2023, South Africa’s Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are barely surviving. Read MoreWhat is Cape Town’s Urban Development Zone? 2 min readIn 2003, The City of Cape Town launched two Urban Development Zone tax incentives to entice investors into urban and inner-city renewal projects in the CBD (central business district) area, and the modern suburbs of Belville. We look at what the scheme involves and chat to Paul Nel, Managing Director at WCB Property Developers which participated in it to find out more. Read MoreTop interior colours for 2023 2 min readEarlier this month, Plascon announced its second annual colour combination of the year, this time choosing a trio of related colours, specifically designed to capture simple joie de vivre and in doing so, reflect the mood of 2023. Read MoreGuaranteed rental income make their way to South Africa 2 min readA while ago, we wrote about rental guarantees, and how well they work for off plan purchases and how big they were in the United Kingdom. Read MoreThe countries set to inspire South Africa décor trends in 2023 2 min readJust like the fashion industry, interior designers have always looked to other countries for décor inspiration. While we want to give you the latest, hottest design trends this can’t be done without a brief history lesson. Read MoreHow aquaponics could benefit your residential estate 3 min readAquaponics is a burgeoning industry. It has revolutionised how we grow our own organic food and provided an alternative to many communities. People have introduced the practice of aquaponics into their own homes but, increasingly, it’s being adopted on an event grander scale. Read MoreAurum Zimbali Lakes is built with the future in mind < 1 min readAurum Zimbali Lakes is located within the Zimbali Lakes development on the Durban North Coast in South Africa. Learn more about Aurum and meet the developer, Dean Young, and the professional teams who through calibration have developed the first Edge certified development within Zimbali Lakes. Aurum includes a number of renewable energy solution that will create enduring value of investors. Read MoreSleepy coastal towns – what’s the allure 3 min readYou probably haven’t heard of Kwelera (don’t worry neither had we) but the small suburb in the Eastern Cape is quite the investor magnet. Read MoreCatering to the competitive and non-competitive horse rider 3 min readHorse riding has become an increasingly popular sport in South Africa. This trend is partly due to the pandemic. People realised that they wanted more quality of life, a luxury life in the country and sports that complimented it. Read MoreBMI Coverlands new Vibrant tile < 1 min readGuaranteed more vibrant and richer colours which will compliment any residential estate ensuring great aesthetics and long term value. Consistent roof colour across the development delivering great value for money for developers and investors alike. Read MoreHow developers are catering to digital nomads, staycationers and business travellers 3 min readWhat do you do when you’re seeing an increase in digital nomads, staycationers and business travellers as clientele? You cater to them by giving them exactly what they want, a place to stay – but only for a little while, with no big strings attached. Read MoreSemigration to the Klein-Karoo: what’s in it for developers? 3 min readIn a recent Property24 feature, Seeff agents in Oudtshoorn, Calvinia, Middelburg and Harrismith expand on the benefits of living in smaller towns reporting that up to a quarter of buyers relocating to these towns hail from the main centres of Johannesburg and Cape Town. Read MoreHow to choose the right landscaper for your estate 3 min readThe true value of quality landscaping should never be underestimated. Done well, and it can save you huge amounts of time and money as well as do wonders your estate’s aesthetic and even be kinder to the environment. But not all contractors charge the same price – so how do you ensure your chosen landscaper meets your requirements. Read MoreShedding light on solar installation 5 min readAs the country continues to experience the untenable rising cost of power and ongoing load shedding, more and more residents are turning to solar power for their energy generation. Read MoreThe true value of the great outdoors 2 min readThe pandemic has changed people’s lifestyle needs and priorities considerably. Read MoreGetting to grips with the City of Johannesburg’s Development Contributions policy 3 min readThe South African Property Owners’ Association (SAPOA), the country’s biggest property organisation, has been locked in a legal battle with the City of Johannesburg over their Development Contributions Policy. We take a deeper look at what is causing such furore. Read More5 Lessons the building industry has learned from supply chain problems 2 min readSupply chain problems have plagued all industries and companies (large and small). The construction and development industry in South Africa is no exception. Read MoreMigration to suburbs on the rise again 3 min readNot many of today’s Millennial and Gen Z clan members will be familiar with the term ‘Baby Boomers’, or realise that they may share common traits with that generation and era in (especially, but not exclusively) American history. The moniker applies to people born between 1946 and 1964, and apart from their urge to people the planet, Baby Boomers were also known to choose the “burbs in pursuit of an ideal lifestyle”. Read MoreHow to guarantee your paint guarantee 3 min readGuarantees are major selling points for coatings systems, especially when investing a substantial amount into a property portfolio. Plascon has high performance paint systems (primer, undercoat and topcoat) that are fit-for-purpose and designed specifically for the trade professionals, from architectural and construction teams through to estate facilities managers. Read MoreWhy top quality paints are an investment worth making! 4 min readMention the name ‘Plascon’ to do-it-yourself enthusiasts and paint contractors and the association is invariably one of uncompromised quality and performance, reflected in superior application intrinsics and exceptional durability. It’s a perception that is based strongly on reality, as evidenced by the superior spreading and obliteration capabilities exhibited by Plascon’s paint products, not to mention the longer anticipated lifecycle of the finished coating. And industry-leading guarantees! Read MoreDevelopment Opportunities in Joburg’s Nodal Review 3 min readOn 28 February 2020, Johannesburg woke up to a new city map: one based on the Nodal Review, which had passed a council vote the day before. The Nodal Review, which aims to deliver on the City of Johannesburg’s Spatial Development Framework, could have far-reaching impacts for residents and property developers. Read MoreWeighing up the investment value of South Africa’s most exciting new beachside estate 2 min readThe new Preekstoel Beach Estate is considered not just a lifestyle investment but also an opportunity for a rental or capital return. This makes the sleepy seaside town of Stilbaai such a valuable investment option. From Stilbaai’s safety and security to its attractive beachside holidays, we address the increase in demand for properties to let, and look at Preekstoel Beach Estate’s value proposition. Read MoreCombining PV and energy storage 10 min readWith more than 140 countries and regions committed to carbon neutrality, Huawei actively supports and participates in climate action while accelerating the adoption of green energy through continuous technological innovation, helping countries achieve their carbon neutral goals. In response to the environmental policies in Europe, Huawei continues to innovate and collaborate with local partners to provide clean energy for low-carbon development, enabling a smarter, greener, and better life for people in the region. Read MoreWhat Investments beat inflation? 4 min readInterest rates have gone up several times in the last few months as the Reserve Bank tries to minimize the impacts of inflation. The Reserve Bank meets six times a year to try and manage inflation, which in South Africa currently stands at 7.6%. Read MoreEstate Living Western Cape Property Developer Event < 1 min readThe Estate Living Western Cape Property Development and Investment Event, was a great success with over 100 delegate participating in the morning. The focus of the event is to create a platform where information and insight, affecting the property development and investment industry, can be shared for industry growth. Estate Living invites leaders within the relevant sectors to discuss innovation, opportunity and collaboration. Read MoreThe role of micro-development in delivering affordable housing 3 min readPopulation numbers in the world’s largest cities have been steadily increasing and this has put pressure on governments and developers alike to find housing solutions. South Africa is no exception, with population increasing in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban by 1.93%%, 2.33% and 0.72% in from 2021 to 2022, according to macrotrends.net. Read MoreMixed use developments are becoming trendy with Cape Town leading the way in this type of development 3 min readMixed-use developments are a growing trend in the residential property development market because they reduce travel time for residents and offer convenience, choice and an integrated lifestyle. Find out more from those showcasing the latest of these projects. Read MoreIs selling land using NFTs the way of the future? 3 min readYou may have heard that it’s possible to buy land in the Metaverse using open source blockchain Ethereum. Apparently rapper Snoop Dog and companies like PwC, JP Morgan, HSBC and Samsung have all got into the action. Read MoreGaletti Corporate Real Estate will sell former Destiny Africa land 3 min readIt was supposed to be South Africa’s own version of Silicon Valley, with Hollywood like facilities, as well as hotel and residential accommodation and commercial buildings. Read MoreHow to choose the best colours for communal spaces 3 min readThe decoration of restaurants, clubhouses and other shared, communal spaces on estates is often a pulling factor for guests. An attractive space is more likely to be used or hired more frequently. What’s more, the colours chosen for these spaces will have an effect on those who visit, making colour choice an important decision. Read MoreDownsizing your home? How to make your living space look larger with colour. 2 min readIf your kids have flown the nest or you’re looking for a safer place to live, you’re probably considering downsizing. With all the appeals of downsizing — like saving money, reducing clutter and less maintenance —you may still be worried about your living spaces looking and feeling small. Luckily, there are tricks of the design trade that can make smaller rooms bigger. Read MoreWhy developing in townships is the future 3 min readBuilding properties, especially upmarket ones, in townships has been an unattractive proposition for developers for many years. This is because crime, poverty and lack of affordability among potential homeowners has always been a concern in these areas. Read MoreThe aparthotel appeal 3 min readEstate Living explores whether developers should expand into the aparthotel market. How appealing is this offering, and will we see more of them? Two experts share views of interest to potential property investors Read MoreBig guns bolster emerging developers 3 min readWho can up-and-coming developers turn to when finding their feet in this challenging sector? Read MoreA dynamic force behind South Africa’s digital infrastructure revolution 4 min readHaving sat down with Juanita Clark to discuss the digital landscape in South Africa, it is clear that she is exactly the kind of person the country needs to galvanise us into an inclusive Fourth Industrial Revolution economy. Read MoreClear Access Offering to Residential and Commercial Developers 2 min readThrough our extensive range of connectivity products and services, Clear Access is able to meet the needs of developers across the spectrum. Read MoreChoosing a Fibre Provider – The Answer is Clear Access 3 min readPeople buying new homes will have certain expectations, and these include being able to enjoy the best of their modern city lifestyle. Read MorePartnering up to keep buildings in prime condition 2 min readWhen it comes to building maintenance, it’s often best to take a preventive – rather than a corrective – approach. Here’s a look at the logic of not allowing things to get totally out of hand before you spring into action. Read MoreSmart cities for urban sustainability 3 min readGovernment has three new smart-city projects in the pipeline, but some developers claim that they’ve already pioneered this trend. We explain the concept in a nutshell, and provide good reasons for developers to take note and act. Read MoreXanadu Nature Estate, North West Province South Africa < 1 min readNestled in the Magaliesberg Mountain range, close to the Hartbeespoort Dam in the North West, Xanadu Nature Estate offers the perfect location for communal living in the tranquility of nature. Located within a 45 minutes drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, the estate is set on 240 hectares of beautiful indigenous bushveld, with a natural wetland, and is home to 280 different species of birds and many animals. Read MoreWhat are the benefits of the build to rent model? 3 min readA greater demand for quality, purpose-built rental accommodation, especially among young professionals and the over 50s has raised the need for alternative development models like buy to rent. It is a burgeoning sector in places like the UK where more than R50 million has already been invested. Read MoreCommercial property survey shows sales weakening 3 min readThe second quarter of the 2022 FNB Commercial Property Broker survey has been published and a key highlight reveals that two out of three major commercial property sectors – office and retail – are showing declines of market sales activity levels. Read More5 Best Ways To Advertise Your Estate On Social Media 2 min readHaving a social media presence is a non-negotiable for any brand or business these days, and estates are no exception. The reality is that if you’re not on social media, you are losing out on selling the lifestyle elements and amenities of your estate to a captive audience – which leaves them wide open to your competitors. Effectively leveraging social media isn’t easy though. Read MoreHow a bolder colour palette can change the face of a residential estate 3 min readA palette of vibrant shades is swaying contemporary developers to change their usual modus operandi when it comes to defining estate palettes; usually, this is to opt for beige, peach, white or grey. This bold change in approach is likely due to the effect of surrounding colour on our mental well-being. Read MoreShould property developers accept Bitcoin as legal tender? 3 min readThe price of Bitcoin recently dropped below $20,000 (R318,366) – its lowest level since November 2020. It’s not only the most famous coin that’s lost some value as other digital currencies have seen their value reach zero. Read MoreWhat is rentvestment? 3 min readA strategy that gives you the ability to maintain the lifestyle you want, while allowing you to launch your investment trajectory, seems like a great way to start building a property portfolio. Read MoreBuilding your property portfolio 3 min readYou’re fresh back from a magnificent holiday, and now the bug won’t stop biting: You’ve simply got to invest in Mauritius… if not relocating for good. But is this a sensible move, especially if deals may have to be clinched over a fair stretch of Indian Ocean? Read MoreFirst-time home buyers’ guide 3 min readWhich provinces or towns are popular among first-time home buyers, and what can developers do to mine and appease this lucrative market? Read MoreShould South Africa continue converting commercial spaces into residential units? 3 min readSouth African developers have been converting unused commercial spaces into residential units for quite some time now. However, according to Joff van Reenen, founding partner and lead auctioneer of specialist real estate auction company High Street Auctions, things are becoming a real challenge for developers and city planners post pandemic. Read MoreHow to deal with seasonal depression 3 min readWinter may not be everyone’s favourite time of year, but that’s not to say the colder days can’t be endured with a more positive outlook. Read MoreThe pros and cons of investing in gold 4 min readA company in the United Kingdom called TallyMoney is understood to be the first employer in the country to pay their staff in gold rather than pounds and pence to help them stay ahead of inflation. Read MoreHow to improve a bad reputation 3 min readWe chat with reputational managers to get some tips and tricks to tackle a bad reputation. Know what makes a good reputation, and what doesn’t. Read MoreLet retirement be everything you dreamed it would be 5 min readAgeing and retirement can be considered a rite of passage, in the same way that graduating, getting your first job, or buying your first house are. But what makes retirement and ageing different is that they are about letting go, and many people let go reluctantly. Read MoreApprovals precipitated 3 min readPlanning challenges are common for developers, but there are still things that the industry can do to ensure that approvals are attained more swiftly. Read MoreDo greener appliances help you save electricity and water? 3 min readThere’s plenty of noise in the news about getting to ‘netzero’ by 2050. It’s effectively the world’s ambition to achieve a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere and the carbon removed from it. Read MoreStyling, precision and luxury are the hallmarks of the new BMW 8 Series 2 min readThe company offers its most discerning customers a unique variety of vehicles that combine exclusivity with superior driving experience. The new edition of the BMW 8 Series provides a particularly emotional boost for the brand’s current model offensive in the segment. Read MoreHow to use the psychology of colour in your development 3 min readExperts use colours to evoke certain emotions. Colour is heavily used by marketing and branding specialists, but the principles apply just as much to property developments. We get some invaluable advice from South Africa’s paint experts. Read MoreColas SA Specialists in Road Construction and Maintenance < 1 min readColas South Africa (Pty) Ltd is a specialist manufacturer and applicator of bituminous binders and slurries for road surfacing. With a range of products and solutions developed for the maintance of residential estates roads and construction of new roads within developments. As leaders in the sector, they understand and address the needs of community living spaces. Read MoreSlow going for building growth 3 min readA recent report by FNB points to the prospect of slowdown in building growth, with fresh data from StatsSA supporting its insights. Read MoreHow to put first-time buyers at ease 3 min readBuying a property on a residential estate for the can be a minefield for the first-time buyer. They’re bound to ask a lot of questions of estate managers and other experts to put their mind at ease. Read MoreTop winter holiday destinations in South Africa and surrounds 3 min readIf you’re keen on a getaway to combat the winter blues, here’s our pick of some of the best local and SADC (South African Development and Economic Community) holiday destinations. Read MoreWill tax cuts create more ‘greener’ developments 3 min readIn a bid to reduce energy costs, the UK government last month, announced that it has scrapped VAT on energy-saving materials like solar panels, insulation, and heat pumps for the next five years. Could something similar work in South Africa? Read MoreThe Gauteng exodus in perspective 3 min readThere is a substantial hike – from 39% in 2019 to 43% in 2021 – in the number of homeowners leaving Gauteng. Read MoreHow to attract the female property buyer 3 min readResearch released by Lightstone Property during the pandemic shows that, over a five-year period (between 2015 and 2020), single female first-time property buyers have outnumbered male buyers, as well as married couples. Read MoreDisney+ launches in South Africa in May 2022 3 min readStreaming service Disney+ will launch in South Africa next month on the 18 May and is set to rival Netflix and DStv. Read MoreEstate Living – Everything you need to know about Community Living < 1 min readEstate Living is a consortium of businesses that focusses on the value of residential community living within South Africa and abroad. Estate Living’s audience and subscribers consists of investors, community management, homeowners and residents, and property developers. Read MoreThe growth of the small town 3 min readUnconventional towns have suddenly become cool. Young buyers are finding properties in non-metro towns financially attractive. They want to take advantage of lower prices and enjoy the medium- to long-term growth that investing in property in these towns brings. What’s more, they’re also keen to benefit from the lifestyle that’s on offer – clean air, country living and a laid-back lifestyle. Read MorePet owners 3 min readDomestic animals must live by these rules In terms of the constitution of Kingswood Golf Estate’s Homeowners Association and its House Rules, as amended in February 2021, animals and their keepers are bound by a reasonable list of do’s and dont’s. Read MoreHow will residential communities be affected by future corporate branding 3 min readOut of home (OOH) advertising (also referred to as outdoor advertising) is advertising that consumers may come across outside of their home. It includes billboards, posters and wallscapes. Read MoreFour Ways St Francis Links Overcame The Challenges Of Covid-19 3 min readNow that COVID-19 has changed in status from a pandemic to an endemic, many are reflecting on how they coped financially and spiritually when the disease was at its worst. Read MoreXanadu Nature Estate – The Ultimate Haven For Nature Lovers 3 min readWalking through Xanadu Nature Estate and meeting its residents, you quickly realise that it has become the ideal ‘work-from-home’ location. This is not because residents working in Johannesburg and Pretoria are choosing not to make the 45-minute drive to the city, but rather because families are relocating from other parts of South Africa, like Cape Town and Durban, to create their home in Xanadu Nature Estate. Read MoreCotswold Downs – Where Even The Greens Are Greener! 3 min readDancing on the fringes of Hillcrest in KwaZulu-Natal, Cotswold Downs is the place to enjoy gorgeous views of the rolling hills and indigenous forest, world-class golfing, spectacular birdlife, and free-roaming antelope – all from the comfort of your home. Read More5 Ways to protect a residential estate from fraudsters 3 min readDid you know that someone is defrauded online every 32 seconds? According to Sharon Knowles from Da Vinci Forensics, residential estates are prime pickings for scammers. Read MoreSelf-generated Electricity 101 3 min readSurvival of our planet lies in alternatives to conventional energy generation, which relies on coal, petroleum, natural gas and nuclear technology. But when focussing on property developers, what proportion seriously considers solar power and other renewable energy sources as prevailing standard? Read MoreAre high density apartments a good investment idea? 3 min readThey may be small, but they are the solution to the demand for more accommodation in tight spaces, particularly within city CBDs (central business districts). There are many names for them including ‘tiny homes’, ‘apodments’, ‘micro units’, ‘micro flats’, ‘nano units’ and so on. Read MoreHow Makers Landing can help catapult your food business 3 min readMakers Landing is a food emporium with a twist. Situated at E Berth next to the new Cape Town Cruise Terminal at the V&A Waterfront, it is withing walking distance from the Silo District and a quick water taxi trip from the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Read MoreCan you grow dagga in your backyard? 3 min readCannabis is in the spotlight yet again as cultivation regulations are revised by South African lawmakers. For growers, possibilities to plant weed for personal and medicinal use seem legion. But will relaxed rules have a bearing on estate managers and residents, and what are sentiments on this practice within estate gardens? Read MoreAll’s fair in property – or is it? 3 min readFemale representation in the property sector is a multifaceted topic, as the property sector consists of many moving parts that revolve around the life cycle of a property – from the concept and architectural designs all the way to the delivery of the property, property sales, property management, and the services required to run and maintain a property. Read MoreHow can your estate get rated as an ‘SA Top 100 Course’? 4 min readThe new South Africa was in its infancy when Golf Digest magazine started ranking the country’s best courses back in 1998. Adjudicators strive to rate candidates objectively, enabling a panel of knowledgeable reviewers to democratically decide on which courses to include in the coveted Top 100 list. Read MorePandemic impact on the construction industry 3 min readFew could predict the impact of Covid-19 and it’s reach throughout every sector, population, and country. It has caused the rise and collapse of many businesses and the construction industry has not been the exception to this. Read MoreWill rents go up or down this year? 3 min readThe cost-of-living crisis is unfortunately not showing any signs of letting up. Fuel and energy prices are soaring, a basket of groceries costs a lot more and if 2021 is anything to go by, then rent is likely to increase too. Read MoreHow to find Estate Living news on your Residential Community App powered by Glovent < 1 min readEstate Living is now available to read directly from your Residential Community App powered by Glovent. Easy to access directly from the ‘Lifestyle & Wellness’ Botton on your homepage . You can how read and watch a wide range of community relevant information and insight directly from you residential community app. Read MoreWomen in Sectional Title 2 min readWomen in Sectional Title (WiST) is a platform that focuses on connecting, supporting and uplifting women in the sectional title industry with the aim of uniting them in a vibrant and collaborative community. Read MoreIs waterfront living a cash cow for developers? 3 min readYou’d be forgiven for thinking that water features are a financial boon given that properties on waterside estates like Thesen Island in Knysna tend to fetch higher asking prices and rental income than ones that don’t. Read MoreChoosing the right fibre to the home (FTTH) supplier 3 min readThe global shift to remote working has amplified demand for fibre services over the last few months, and developments with the best connectivity are likely to be the most attractive to tomorrow’s buyer. Read More5 insurance must-haves for property developers 2 min readBuilding success as a property developer is often about balancing the amazing possibilities of a new project with the inherent risks. And mitigating those risks starts with a proactive assessment of your insurance solutions. While standard Contractors All Risk Insurance provides substantial cover, there are a few optional add-ons that could make your risk management solutions more watertight. Read MoreBuild peace of mind with the right Contractors All Risk Insurance 2 min readProperty development is certainly a multifaceted profession. But whether you’re making planning provisions, sourcing land, financing, budgeting, or coordinating your team, one skillset shines through. You are a master problem solver. And one of the many problems you need to solve is choosing the right Contractors All Risk Insurance. Luckily, the solution is relatively straightforward, provided you base it on your unique business needs. Read MoreHow to choose a good builder 3 min readA home renovation can be exciting, but it can also be a stressful process because there’s a myriad of things that could go wrong, especially if you hire the wrong builder. Read MoreHow will interest rates affect the retail and property market 4 min readFew things have a greater impact on the economy than an interest rate hike or cut. A hike is often welcomed by savers, especially if that is passed on by the banks via their savings products but it’s equally frowned upon by those of us in debt as it makes borrowing more expensive. Read MoreAzuri: A Pleasant Life by the Sea 4 min readLuxury Residences By The Sea In Mauritius – Azuri Ocean & Golf Village, a place of island elegance and serenity, to live truly and safely your dream of a tropical lifestyle. Since its inception eight years ago on a large estate in the North of Mauritius, Azuri has metamorphosed into a vibrant and tight-knit community. Read MoreLeading property developer creates 7000 employment opportunities amid SA’s perilous economic climate 3 min readBloomberg recently reported that South Africa’s unemployment rate, which includes people who have stopped looking for work, rose to 44.4 percent in the second quarter, 2021. It also pointed out that the country’s unemployment rate surged to the highest on a global list of 82 countries it monitors. Read MoreThe coolest roofing solution for your estate – Plascon Nuroof Cool lowers interior temperatures by up to 8°C! 2 min readWe all know that roofs take a beating from the sun, and especially so here in sunny SA! And summer 2022 has been marked by record temperature highs. With heat soaring up to 45 degrees in parts of the country, it has been near impossible to be outdoors at midday and stifling to remain inside. Read MoreJoburg teen makes it into the Ivy League 3 min readJohannesburg matriculant Sazi Bongwe has secured admission to Harvard University for the 2022 academic year, which kicks off in August. The eighteen-year-old, who was Head of School at St. John’s College in 2021, achieved nine distinctions in his final matric exams, with an average of 95.9% – in addition to building an impressive extracurricular portfolio throughout his school career. For high school students with dreams of studying at a top university abroad, Sazi’s journey is a masterclass in standing out to admissions officers. Read MoreNew laws, Eskom’s price hike and their impact 3 min readFour vital pieces of legislation, set to be introduced this year, is sure to affect South Africans. Read MoreKey commercial property trends for 2022 3 min readSo, 2021 one has come and gone, but the trends that have affected the commercial property sector last year will no doubt trickle through 2022 as well. We are, after all, still in the throes of the Covid-19 pandemic, although it has recently produced what many feel is a weaker variant. Read MoreOpenserve Connect App – control and information at your fingertips 2 min readOpenserve has redefined the broadband experience for customers with the introduction of their Connect App. Read MoreSitari Country Estate – A Success Story 2 min readDespite the uncertainty of the past 18 months, Sitari Country Estate continues to take form in the Helderberg basin, and 2022 promises to be even bigger and better. Read MoreRebuilding Tourism 4 min readThe tourism industry in George, as in many holiday destinations across South Africa and the world, has suffered greatly since the first COVID-19 lockdowns came into effect at the end of March 2020. The local tourism office falls under George Municipality and we tracked down the town’s tourism manager, Joan Shaw, who shared data collated over the past year, as well as a cautiously optimistic outlook for 2022. Read MoreGreen building 2 min readWhen it was announced in November that South Africa had concluded a historic agreement to secure R131 billion for the country’s transition to a low carbon economy, the news was celebrated in international environmental circles. On a national level, estate managers and developers can contribute by building green and maintaining planet-friendly standards. Read MoreArçelik unveils ambitious Africa expansion plans for with the introduction of Beko to South African Market 5 min readBeko is the international home appliance brand of Arçelik operating in more than 140 countries. It offers product lines that include major appliances, air conditioners and small appliances. Beko is the leading freestanding home appliances brand in Europe in the white goods sector and no.1 large home appliances brand in the UK. The brand is Main Partner of FC Barcelona, naming partner of Fenerbahçe Men’s Basketball Team and Official Supplier of European League of Legends Championship (LEC). Read MoreHealthier, eco-friendly lifestyle beckons as beko, Europe’s leading freestanding appliance brand is now available in South Africa 3 min readImagine being able to reduce your carbon footprint, and give your family 99% protection from bacteria and viruses – including COVID-19 – simply by turning on your washing machine or tumble dryer? Read MoreSustainable appliance brand beko launches in South Africa 3 min readEnvironmentally conscious consumers in South Africa will soon be able to choose from among the world’s most sustainable appliances when Beko, as a brand under the Arçelik umbrella in South Africa after Defy and Grundig., launches its home appliance range with stand-alone stores in Johannesburg and Durban. Read MoreShould developers create pet friendly estates? 2 min readMost retirement homes have strict rules about keeping pets. But now there’s one retirement village that’s going against this status quo and allowing pensioners to keep their furry friends with them in retirement. Read MoreInternational flight bans impact on marketing internationally 2 min readMany countries have shut their doors to South Arica following the discovery of the Omicron coronavirus variant in November and foreign visitors have all but vanished over the usually busy summer. Read MoreImproving air quality in your estate’s offices 2 min readAccording to the World Health Organisation (WHO), air pollution is one of the biggest threats to human health after climate change. Using the latest clean air technology not only keeps employees healthy and lowers absenteeism, but it also appeals to increasingly healthy and lifestyle conscious residents. Read MoreTech needs of new homes 2 min readWhen researching technologies during the pre-construction phase, developers must consider the importance of building for a tech-driven society. During such research, one concept will underly most every alternative: fibre! Read MoreAffordable housing and megacities 2 min readDuring the third quarter of this year, the Western Cape Government was finalising a draft policy to address affordable housing. Billed as ‘ground-breaking’, its Inclusionary Housing Policy Framework (IHPF) tackles the consequences of ‘apartheid spatial planning’ – and developers form an integral part of the plan. Read MoreDealing With A Market Crash 3 min readMarket falls don’t come along often, but when they do they could affect our pensions and fund investments, and rattle us into thinking we need to preserve our money in cash-based investments – at least until it’s all over. Read MoreBe A Shrewd Global Investment Citizen With Caleo Capital 2 min readCaleo Capital is a global boutique investment management firm, with a strong focus on the principles that one would associate with a family office. The business prides itself on being fiercely independent, which means they provide unique, tailor-made advice to their clients. Read MoreBeat Loadshedding With Huawei Fusionsolar Residential Smart Pv Solution 4 min readSpanning 13 years, South Africans have lived with the spectre of load shedding, due to ageing and poorly maintained infrastructure. According to a report released by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in August, South Africa experienced 650 hours of load shedding in the first half of 2021, shedding an estimated 963GWh of energy. This represents 76% of the total load shedding experienced in 2020. Read MoreGreen Investment 3 min readAccording to one Cape Town-based landscaper, Rose Buchanan, investing in and renovating your outdoor space can increase a property’s value by up to 20%. Read MoreWellness In The Workplace 2 min readBig or small, it is important for a business to look after its people – after all, they are your company’s most important asset. Read MoreWelcome Home. Welcome To Xanadu Nature Estate 2 min readIf you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg and Pretoria, then take a 45-minute drive to North West, and you will soon stumble upon the majestic Magaliesburg Mountains and, nestled within them, the Xanadu Nature Estate. Read MoreSteyn City – More Than Just A Secure Lifestyle 3 min readIs Steyn City the most enviable address in Gauteng? Several local and international accolades indicate that this may well be the case. Read MoreCybersecurity: Info age security cracks require newfangled awareness 3 min readOnce considered futuristic, smart homes and offices are now a reality. We never seem to have enough new tech, with products added daily to improve efficiency and convenience. Read MoreWhy developers shouldn’t only cater to wealthy baby boomers 3 min readIt’s understandable that many developers want to create high-end retirement homes aimed at wealthy boomers – it’s a very lucrative undertaking, after all. While there’s a market for that, it’s important not to lose sight of what pensioners on lower incomes may need when it comes to housing. Read More5 Sustainable building materials that could save the planet 3 min readActivists have long called for the construction industry to ditch concrete. Back in 2019, there were calls at the Architecture of Emergency climate summit to stop using this building material because the four billion tons of cement produced each year account for 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions. Read MoreLoan scams 3 min readBad debt can often lead people to make snap decisions – often these are the wrong decisions. Some are so desperate to get out of debt that they will consider anything that could help bail them out quickly. Read MoreLet it flow 3 min readDevelopments in sewerage management are making a positive impact on estate infrastructure and expenses – other than the obvious use of irrigation on golf courses. This tech lightens the load on bulk services provided by municipalities and, in turn, minimises augmentation fees payable by developers to local authorities. Read MoreTackling tender transparency 4 min readIn January, the Government Printing Works (GPW) published its last Tender Bulletin before announcing that the GPW was experiencing technical difficulties. Read MoreLeasehold laws 3 min readThere are lots of desirable properties that grace the shoreline of Mauritius with the most pristine beach views and glorious sunsets that can be enjoyed with favourite sundowners. Read MoreGetting board approval for your estate’s budget 3 min readThe typical budget of an estate, whether bottom up or top down, can be anything upwards of R5 million and is often a very stressful juggling act for estate managers. Read More4 Tips to make your estate outsource-ready 2022 2 min readThe remote working revolution came with its fair share of benefits. As well reducing a business’s costs for water, electricity and in some cases even rent, the working-from -home model has also helped to combat some longstanding concerns regarding outsourcing. Read MoreProperty and construction jobs in Mauritius 2 min readLeading international recruitment firm, Michael Page, has just released their Mauritius Salary Guide and Hiring Insights research for 2022. In it, the recruiter focuses on several sectors including engineering, property, and construction to name but a few. Read MoreHow do you futureproof your development’s technology needs? 2 min readTechnology is constantly evolving, new trends emerge and what works today, might not be useful in the next decade. As technology needs change over time, it is important for real estate developers to make room for technology advancements, by futureproofing their developments to create a quality living experience for residents. Read MoreCable theft is not just a petty crime : How cable theft affects our communities 2 min readCable theft is a form of organised crime that has had a significant impact on businesses, communities, and the economy. The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry estimates that cable theft costs the SA economy between R5bn to R7bn a year. Read MoreAvoid being under insured 2 min readThe realisation that you’re under insured for your home contents usually happens too late. Often, it’s during the claims stage when you need to replace an item (or many items) and the insurance pay out isn’t quite as much as you thought it would be. It’s easy to get angry, but the truth is that this is within your control. After all, insurers only know what you tell them. Read MoreDo you even know who your buildings insurer is? 2 min readFew will dispute that buying a home is an emotional time. It’s near impossible not to get caught up in the excitement of it all, which understandably has you racing through the mountain of paperwork, just to get those keys in your hands as soon as possible. Read MoreCyprus’ Permanent Residency Programme is the Best In Europe! 3 min readThe timing is perfect to put a plan in place for you and your family to secure a Plan B. Nothing is more expensive than a missed opportunity. Read MoreMauritius Property with a Personal Touch 2 min readFounded over 17 years ago by Philippe and Frederique de Beer and their brother-in-law Brian Blatch, Park Lane Properties has developed a very solid reputation as a real estate expert on the island. This 100% Mauritian brand with global reach has become a point of reference in terms of real estate and has become synonymous with expertise, integrity and trusted advice. Read MoreLive the Island Life and Get Exclusive Hotel Privileges 3 min readWhether you’re into short-term staying or long-term living in Mauritius, this is where memories are made. Read MoreWelcome to The Peninsula 2 min readWith its rich history and a mix of various cultural traditions, Mauritius is a privileged country in which to live. An attractive and thriving place for business, with an incomparable quality of life, Mauritius is home to the citizen of the world. Read MoreSimbithi Eco-Estate is 17 Years Old 2 min readThe ‘Eco’ in the estate’s name was conceptualised by the developer, who envisioned restoring a sugar-cane farm to the biodiversity and natural beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal coastal region. Read MoreElevating lifestyle 3 min readSteyn City’s Ultimate Helistop was recently hailed as a first for residential developments in South Africa. Introduced to the market in 2015, the 900-hectare luxury private estate is located close to Lanseria in Joburg, and the largest in the country in terms of land size. Read MoreRental revolution or residential nightmare? 3 min readNoise, a blatant disregard for the rules, too many people, and a disruption to the ‘community feel’ is just a few of the many reasons why residents on family estates are against short term rentals. Read MoreClosing the deal 3 min readIt’s a good time to sell because people are feeling bullish about taking on a home loan. ‘The favourable lending conditions have encouraged more first-home buyers to enter the market, accounting for 60% of BetterBond applications for the 12 months ending September 2021. Read MoreThe best (and worst) places to live as an expat 3 min readEvery year InterNations runs The Expat Insider survey, polling countries according to scores given by expats. Read MoreShould Covid-19 vaccinations be compulsory? 3 min readFor South Africa to meet its target of vaccinating 70% of its population by December, more than half of all adults need to have had their first shot by — well now — end October. Read MoreGLOVent CMS 4IR < 1 min readThe GLOVent CMS 4IR is packaged in a core solution, with integrated specialised modules, combining to form a total integrated Community Management System. One of the newest specialised modules is the Utility Management Module. The GLO CMS Utility Module integrates water, electricity and/or gas readings in near real-time directly in our GLO CMS Admin Portal and Member Application. Read MoreFit for families 3 min readThe focus when it came to building residential estates ten or 20 years ago was security. While security was and is as priority now, and rightly so, there’s a lot more that developers and estate managers need to focus on to cater to the demands of a modern-day South African family. Read MoreAre you being paid fairly? 3 min readIn the United Kingdom construction salaries advertised by employers have soared 6.7% in the space of just five months, according to new data by jobs site, Indeed. Here, employer demand for workers is outstripping the number of candidates, which is why salaries are being pushed up. Read MorePlett property review 3 min readPlettenberg Bay rates right up there with the most sought-after property markets along the Atlantic Seaboard and in Gauteng. Its property market is booming, with high demand for houses and semigration driving the increases. Record sales have been recorded since the lifting of the Covid-19 lockdown in June last year. Read More4 Ways to create the perfect ‘green’ impression 3 min readMaking a good impression is key in a residential estate market. An outdoor area is often the first impression potential buyers or visitors have of your estate. Buyers want to see clean and well-maintained landscapes that celebrate the local flora and fauna. Read MoreWhat does Bright Light Solar offer Developers at the onset of a development project? < 1 min readEstate Living and Kevin Shames Director at Bright Light Solar discusses Bright Light Solars process and offering for developers at the onset of the development process, which includes securing all the regulatory requirements for the renewable energy products supplied. Read MoreCleaning up the CSOS 3 min readAfter taking the helm of the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) in April, Boyce Mkhize started to make some big changes. We spoke to him about his first few months in office and his plans for 2022. Read MoreInvesting in the community 3 min readRiots, like the ones experienced in July, may have been preventable if developers did more to address socio-economic issues in South Africa. Read MoreTougher Together 2 min readThe trusted and proven duo of mica for stretch and marble for strength has made Plascon Micatex South Africa’s favourite exterior paint choice for decades. Now there’s a new duo that’s even tougher – Plascon Micatex with Polycell Read MoreThe Somerset Lifestyle and Retirement Village New Release 2 min readHaving listened to prospective buyers and researched market demand, we are excited to launch our new planning of Aversham Lane freehold homes, situated in phase 7 of The Somerset Lifestyle Retirement Village. Read MoreYour Mauritius Journey – Updated Travel Options, Visa Requirements and Regional Property Options < 1 min readMauritius is the one of the most accessible options to the South African community looking to invest or emigrate with favourable taxation policy and residency permits. Estate Living runs a number of educational webinars presenting property options, support structures and finance solutions. Read MoreCheap credit or tantalising temptation? 3 min readIt’s a great achievement to be close to paying off your home loan. For many, this type of credit takes the better part of around 20 years to pay off. So once the last payment is due, there’s good reason to just clear it off and cancel the loan agreement. Read MoreFinancing your next development 3 min readResidential developments can cost millions of rands to build. But raising the money can be a challenge, especially when it comes to pitching the concept to prospective lenders. Read MorePerfect prefab? 3 min readSouth Africa needs to build 2.1 million homes in the next five years if the government is to meet its own target of providing affordable housing for 12.5 million citizens by 2030. The monumental task has been made worse by the pandemic, which has plunged even more people into poverty and pushed up the cost of conventional building materials like bricks and cement exponentially. Read MoreSouth Africa current economic climate and investment opportunity with Signal View Boutique Hotel 2 min readJoin Estate Living on our #ExpertInsight webinar. Economist Izak Odendaal shares insight into our new Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and how the changing of the guard could impact the South African economy. Joining the discussion is Mason Lecuona, a South African property developer who is offering a uniquely position property investment in Plettenberg Bay. The Signal View Boutique Hotel allows for 18 investors who are looking for a rental return and capital growth. This bespoke product offers investors an opportunities to diversify their portfolio. Read MoreCement and CO2 3 min readWe’re seeing the effects of climate change daily across the world. There’s uncontrollable fires such as the ones currently raging in Greece, extreme heat, and flash floods to name but a few related incidents. Read MoreDeciding the right annuity for you < 1 min readAn at-retirement annuity is a way for you to make sure you receive a steady stream of income (pension) after you retire. The amount of income depends on various factors, including how much you have saved in your retirement fund and the annuity you purchase. Read MoreBuilding up young engineering and construction talent 3 min readEncouraging the youth to commit to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects is a challenge. This has created a skills shortage, particularly in the technically trained professions. South Africa also struggles with an unemployment crisis where half of young people are unemployed. Read MoreInvesting in Zanzibar 3 min readThe government of Zanzibar has introduced a new tax and residency programme to attract foreign investors, developers and residents to the Tanzanian island. It comes on the back of significant infrastructure and tourism-friendly initiatives that allowed the island destination to survive some of the challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Read MoreDreaming of life off the grid? 3 min readRecent legal developments are affecting estates and homeowners – who are only allowed to produce a percentage of alternative energy on site in relation to bulk municipal electricity supplied – in many ways, depending on local municipal bylaws. The onus is thus on developers to stay abreast of criteria and duly inform potential buyers. Read MoreNudge, nudge, think, think 4 min readWe are all familiar with the sweets and snacks in the checkout queues of supermarkets. And we have all carefully averted our eyes from them, or – somewhat more difficult – tried to distract our children from them. This is just one – and possibly the most graphic – example of how we as humans (and especially as consumers) are nudged into ‘desirable’ decisions daily. But who decides what is ‘desirable’? Read MoreInvesting in property in UK, USA, UAE vs. South Africa 3 min readWhen it comes to investing in property abroad, investors and developers have a smorgasbord of choice available to them. Overseas property investments are particularly attractive, given the current talk of a worldwide property boom, claims of better capital growth and higher rental yields. Read MoreGlowing mistakes 3 min readThere’s a big demand from people to reconnect with nature and many are keen to leave the big city life and have homes build close to it. But being close to nature comes with its own perils. Read MoreConcrete plans 3 min readAccording to Afrisam, the cement industry in South Africa produces approximately 20 million tons of cement a year. In 2019 the total demand for cement in South Africa was about 13 million tons but that dropped significantly last year due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Read MoreGoing Green 3 min readThe demand for eco-friendly homes presents a unique opportunity to leap into a low carbon and resource-efficient future by building responsibly, incorporating energy efficient design and construction strategies. Read MoreLive in nature at The Rest Nature Estate 3 min readSituated on 320 tranquil hectares of subtropical bushveld vegetation, yet only a short drive from the city centre, The Rest Nature Estate has quickly become Nelspruit’s (now Mbombela) most sought-after residential address. Read MoreBuilding up beautiful Bankenveld 4 min readSituated on the northwest bank of the Witbank Dam is the charming Bankenveld. The dam is one of the largest municipal dams in the southern hemisphere, as well as one of the cleanest, and forms an integral part of this unique, yet thoroughly relaxing estate. The estate was first conceptualised in 1998, and the first home built in 2001. There is an exciting range of properties, including waterfront homes, freestanding homes further inland, and fashionable townhouses. Read MoreSilver Lakes Golf and Wildlife Estate 3 min readAs the first estate of its kind in Pretoria, Silver Lakes has stood the test of time for more than a quarter of a century, in recent years thanks mainly to CEO Henk Booysen’s inspired and consistent leadership. Read MoreLevies decided by majority vote in a Communal Scheme 3 min readIs it constitutional for CSOS to determine that the agreed levies are unreasonable after the fact? We recently had cause to deal with an adjudication before the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) in Johannesburg, in which our client was the homeowners association of a residential development (the estate), which comprises 328 residential units, including various types of property. Read MoreRetirement planning is a necessity 3 min readIt’s no secret that we are a nation of poor savers. Almost half of the South Africans surveyed (49%) in the recent 10X Retirement Reality Report 2020 (RRR20) admitted they didn’t have a retirement plan. Read MoreNew EB-5 ruling allows you to invest in America for your Green Card from only $500 000 2 min readThe sought-after EB-5 Investor Programme has become more accessible for a limited time only. As announced on 22 June 2021, by the U.S. federal court. Immigrants can now diversify their investment portfolios for a lower fee of $500 000 (as opposed to the previous rate of $900 000) to secure green cards, for a limited period only – until 30 June 2021. Read MoreMicrofarms 5 min readMicrofarms probably won’t solve world hunger, but it wouldn’t be far from the truth to say that they may be the best candidate for that honour. And, while it’s unlikely that many people living in residential estates are starving, it’s almost certain that most can benefit from more fresh veggies – and from fresher veggies. Read MoreXeriscaping 4 min readIf you live – or are planning a development – in one of the drier parts of the country, you are faced with some serious gardening and landscaping challenges. But you’re not the first person to have to deal with little or no water and hot, dry winds that shrivel up every little hopeful green shoot. Many landscapers have very successfully created dramatic xeriscapes of intriguing hard elements and extremely hardy plants. Read MoreHow can developers attract international investors? 4 min readAn international study says around half of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) want to buy at least one luxury home in the next 12 months, and that South Africa is one country that they’re considering. Read MoreShould you invest in property abroad? 3 min readWhy are we seeing a property boom when the world is engulfed in a global pandemic? This is a very valid question, considering that, during the financial crisis in 2008, real house prices fell by an average of 10%, wiping trillions of dollars off the value of bricks and mortar. Read MoreThe best Cheesecake in the world 4 min readI love cheesecake, and always have, but – as I discovered one rainy night in Wilderness – there is cheesecake, and then there is cheesecake. Aidan’s cheesecake is cheesecake. Read MoreHOA in Action < 1 min readThis was indeed the case on Friday May 14 when hanging with Dan de Wet – part of the furniture at Kingswood Golf Estate for the past 10 years and serving as Community Facilities Manager to the Home Owners Association. Read MoreSee the trees through the wood 3 min readResearchers in Sweden have succeeded in making a sustainable, renewable transparent wood that is strong enough to use as a structural element. It will be a while before it is widely available, but it has the potential to profoundly affect the construction industry. Read MoreDive Mauritius 4 min readA picture perfect tropical island with crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping golden beaches, Mauritius ticks all the boxes for a beach and watersports holiday. The snorkelling is fantastic, but to really appreciate life beneath the shimmering ocean surface, you need to scuba dive. Read MoreDigital nomads are a great new market 4 min readUntil recently, most new developments had a tourism component, but some developers started rethinking that since Covid hit our shores. But perhaps it’s more a matter of tweaking your offerings to appeal to a new type of ‘tourist’ – the digital nomad. Read MoreThabo Mbeki Presidential Library 3 min readThe design of the Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library is a truly African interpretation of Mbeki’s concept of African Renaissance, and a wonderful example of the place- and culture-specific style of award-winning architect David Adjaye. Read MoreAdventures in Mauritius 5 min readThink Mauritius and the images that spring to mind are probably of lazing on white sand beaches, swimming in the turquoise waters of the shallow lagoon, and sipping cocktails while watching spectacular sunsets. But there are plenty of active adventures in this tropical paradise. Read MoreRevised SABS standards on fire safety 2 min readThe South African Bureau of Standards has updated the national standard on fire alarm systems, in a move that could have far-reaching consequences for residential estates. Read MoreDurban to divorce Eskom 2 min readThe various things that we’ve all said about Eskom (especially after bashing our shins in the dark) are not printable. Let’s face it. We are all – well – tired of what has become an asymmetrical relationship in which one side fails to deliver on promises. But we feel that we’re stuck in what is becoming an increasingly toxic relationship. So it is with great interest that we anticipate the City of Durban’s imminent divorce from the power (non-) provider. Read MoreIntegrated energy storage 3 min readWhether it’s just as a back-up for when Eskom throws a wobbly, or whether it’s a serious commitment to using renewable energy, storage is almost always the constraining factor. So incorporating a rechargeable battery in the actual cement structure of a building sounds like a great idea. Read MoreNormalisation of deviance 4 min readNobody is perfect, and no system is perfect, so we just have to do the best we can, and hope that it is good enough. But how good is ‘good enough’? Or how bad do things have to be before they are not ‘good enough’? And is this culture of ‘good enough’ wise? It’s certainly expedient but, if we trawl through the news headlines, we can find many instances of when ‘good enough’ was not good enough. Read MoreRenewable energy’s biggest constraint is cost-effective storage < 1 min readLast year we wrote about an interesting UK-based startup that had designed a system to store electricity by raising heavy weights during low demand (or bright sunshine), and releasing them into mineshafts when needed. Seemed like a great idea – and now they are crowdfunding to build a prototype. Read MoreGardens as fire defence 3 min readGardens serve many purposes – decoration, food production, and even status symbols. But gardens can be so much more. Depending on what – and how – you plant, your garden can increase or decrease your risk of fire (and many other things, but let’s stick with fire). Read MoreRising sea levels threaten coastal homes 3 min readAs low-lying coastal homes are threatened by rising sea levels and extreme weather events, some landowners and governments are proposing proactive action. While others, of course, bury their heads in the sand, hoping against all logic to defy the tides in an ironic twist of the story of King Canute. Read MoreForged in flame 4 min readWhat is the lesson we take home as we count the cost, and to try to reconstruct, after this last in a series of devastating fires? We need to think – not just about how we deal with the aftermath, or even how we deal with the actual fires – but how we prevent them from happening again. And, for those of us responsible for large tracts of land, like estates, it’s not just an academic exercise. Read MoreConstruction’s deepening skills crisis 4 min readWhen the government recently published a new proposed list of critical skills, or high-demand occupations, which would make it easier for certain foreign workers to get visas to work and live in South Africa, ‘project manager’ was a recurring theme across industries. Construction – which has suffered a severe project management skills shortage for years – emerged as a particular problem area. Read MoreVaccination passports 3 min readWe are all tired of restrictions, and many of us are aching to attend football matches, mega-church services or raves, and we all want the tourism industry to recover – both so that our economy can recover, and so that we can head off somewhere exotic to destress. We long for ‘normality’. So we are lining up for vaccinations and hoping that they (and the proof thereof) will fix the world and bring everything back to the way it was. But is a vaccine – and a ‘vaccine passport’ – the panacea it’s made out to be, or will it prove to be a two-edged sword with some unexpected consequences? Read MoreUnpacking the Traditional Courts Bill 3 min readThe Traditional Courts Bill is lurching its way through Parliament, amid howls of protest – mostly, ironically, from the very people it’s intended to protect. What is the Bill, and what do we need to know about it? Read MoreNew Work 7 min readMost of us work because we have to, not because we want to. But New Work, as defined by Frithjof Bergmann, is work that we do because we want to – because it enriches our lives, not just our bank balances. Until recently, it’s only been artists, hippies and new-age hunter-gatherers who have managed to step off the conspicuous consumption–conspicuous busyness roller coaster, and just live. But, with new technology and an open mind, this option is open to more of us. Maybe it will, one day soon, become the new normal. Read MoreUmhlanga Arch KwaZulu-Natal and Kansai Plascon < 1 min readUmhlanga Arch on the KZN North Coast is a triumph for the professional teams that worked tirelessly to create this soon-to-be iconic landmark. For the paint finishes, the developers elected to use Kansai Plascon’s 360 Professional Pledge offering, a premium paint range and application. The Kansai Plascon Preferred Applicator was Smith and Winfield. Read MorePlastic pipes are polluting drinking water systems after wildfires 4 min readWhen wildfires swept through the hills near Santa Cruz, California, in 2020, they released toxic chemicals into the water supplies of at least two communities. One sample found benzene, a carcinogen, at 40 times the state’s drinking water standard. Read MoreMauritius is on track to achieve herd immunity 2 min readSince the outbreak of COVID-19 last year, Mauritius has upheld the sanitary safety of Mauritian nationals and that of visitors as a topmost priority. The island nation has been widely recognised as exercising one of the best responses to the pandemic – a strategy that has resulted in a surprisingly low incidence of the disease. Read MoreAgeing infrastructure: a risk to developers 3 min readBefore starting projects in areas with ageing municipal infrastructure, developers should beware of the indirect – or, in some cases, direct – costs. Read MoreThe world’s first 3D-printed, zero net energy, residential estate 3 min readThe Palari Group, in conjunction with Mighty Buildings, is planning the world’s first zero net energy, 3D-printed residential estate in Rancho Mirage, California, USA. It will be a small, low-density, upmarket estate but, perhaps, the ease, speed, efficiency and sustainability of the construction process may lend itself to rapid deployment of affordable housing. Or not. Read MoreAfrica’s data centre boom 3 min readYou may have noticed that we’ve all been using the internet a lot more than we used to. The global shifts towards remote working, online learning, cloud-based business operations and streaming entertainment – all of which were gathering steam before 2020 happened – have been propelled forward by the local lockdowns of COVID-19. That spells opportunity for developers who can meet the growing demand for South Africa’s internet backbone infrastructure needs. Read MoreThe legal rights of trees … 3 min readWe are all aware that we need to do an environmental impact assessment before we embark on any large- scale (or sometimes even small-scale) endeavour like mining, new building, landscaping – even farming. Read MoreLife in a degrowth economy 6 min readWhat does genuine economic progress look like? The orthodox answer is that a bigger economy is always better, but this idea is increasingly strained by the knowledge that, on a finite planet, the economy can’t grow for ever, and academics, economists and activists have, for decades, been exploring ways of moving beyond growth economics and towards a ‘steady-state’ economy. Read MoreEden to Addo 4 min readWalking is much more than a way to get from A to B. It’s a meditation and a pilgrimage. Read MoreCommon pool resource management – Strategy to avoid tragedy 4 min readManaging a residential estate is a little like juggling with eggs. It can be tricky to balance each resident’s rights to fully enjoy all the communal facilities and services with the need to protect, preserve and maintain all the elements that go to making the estate the special place it is. Read MoreHorror story 4 min readUsually, when you review a book that you think is good, or even – as in this case – excellent, you wax lyrical about how much you enjoyed it. Well, this was not the case here. Reading this book is not enjoyable. Every page you turn feels like being hit over the head with something big and heavy – perhaps a book, but definitely a hardcover one. Seriously, it’s a traumatic read, but a very important one, especially for developers with a social conscience who are hoping to create something sustainable. Read MoreOffshore property and your estate 4 min readAs the local economy continues to wobble, more and more South Africans are looking overseas to build and diversify their wealth. Property is an increasingly attractive part of that offshore investment picture. But whether it’s a small rental apartment in Portugal or a seaside villa in Zanzibar, that offshore property needs very careful attention when it comes to estate planning. Read MoreEbotse Golf and Country Estate 4 min read‘The best way to experience Ebotse Golf and Country Estate is from the water,’ developer and director Vince Cockbain said as I gingerly stepped onto the boat from the jetty. And he was right. The 40-hectare Rynfield Dam is the heart of this green enclave on the East Rand. Read MoreMeyersdal Eco Estate 4 min readWho says you can’t have it all – convenience, security, space and the sense of being in the wild? Well, that’s not true. You can have it all. You can have state-of-the-art everything that opens and closes, and easy access to schools, shops and business centres, and still be surrounded by wide open spaces filled with a variety of nature’s amazing beauty filled with kudu, wildebeest and zebra. It’s a kind of magic that’s hard to find in a modern world, and it’s called Meyersdal Eco Estate. Read MoreKingswood Golf Estate 2 min readThe international award winning Kingswood Golf Estate is an urban lifestyle golf estate with a championship golf course in George, the centre of the Garden Route’s golf Mecca. The Sally Little signature golf course designed by Danie Obermeyer is the prime attraction, but the residential estate hosts various other leisure activities and facilities that you can enjoy… and all in a setting of breathtaking, natural beauty at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains. Read MoreInvesting in biodiversity 3 min readWhen we think of return on investment, we tend to think in monetary terms, but we forget that money is not much use if there is nothing worthwhile to spend it on. So, while we do need to ensure our financial security, we – possibly even more importantly – need to ensure that our planet remains liveable for humans. And the key to that is biodiversity. Read MoreBalancing community needs with developer’s needs 3 min readExplore the unique developer’s needs in property markets and learn how cycles affect investments and local businesses. Read MorePoint-and-call 4 min readJapan, rightly, has the reputation of having one of the world’s safest and most efficient rail transport systems. And one of the most important contributors to its impeccable safety record is a simple, inexpensive technique that can be used by anyone in almost any industry – it’s the simple system the Japanese call shisa kanko, or point-and-call. Read MoreEstate Living 2020 Educational Webinars < 1 min readThank you to everyone who participated in the educational Estate Living webinar series this year. There has been great engagement across all of our audiences – Property Developers, Community Managers, Residents, Homeowners and Property Investors local and abroad. Read MoreWater tariff freeze 4 min readThe recent announcement by the Minister of Human Settlement, Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, of a tariff freeze preventing the water boards from increasing their charges sounds like a good idea, but it is likely to have serious consequences. Read MoreHow to support estate aesthetic guidelines and homeowner alteration applications 2 min readHomeowners that buy into estates generally understand that there are strict architectural and building guidelines. These are designed to maintain harmony in home design and with the surrounding environment as well as the standard of the estate. Read MoreRenewable Energy – Navigating the Landscape for Developers, Community Managers and Homeowners < 1 min readEstate Living, Green Housing Compnay, eThekwini Energy Office, ST Solutions, PEC Utility and Teljoy navigate the landscape of green infrastructure and renewable energy. Looking at how new developments and existing estate, can be planned in a manner that ensures security of supply of services to residents, in a financially sustainable manner. Read MoreHistorical intentional communities 6 min readAs we become more and more disillusioned with the inequity and unsustainability inherent in the way society is run, we sometimes dream of living in a utopia – a community in which everyone is respected equally, there is no poverty, and we live in harmony with the seasons and the rhythms of the planets. Read MoreHeirloom vegetables 3 min readA few years ago I stopped at a farm stall selling pumpkins and cucumbers, and not much else. Now you may think that’s pretty boring – until you see the range of pumpkins and cucumbers! Read MoreBerkeley researchers use 3D printer to make concrete stronger 4 min readResearchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new way to reinforce concrete with a polymer lattice, an advance that could rival other polymer-based enhancements and improve concrete’s ductility while reducing the material’s carbon emissions. Read MoreAudio camouflage 3 min readExplore the concept of audio camouflage and how it can transform your auditory experience in bustling environments. Read MoreAre intentional communities a viable investment? 6 min readWe know that – as a country, and as property developers – we have failed to effectively and equitably utilise South Africa’s resources. Land use is illogical – based on narrow perceptions, and still subject to the legacy of colonial and apartheid spatial planning – and decidedly inequitable. We know that we have to change the relationship of people to land, but we are almost paralysed by the enormity of the challenge. Read MoreKeep cool 4 min readHouses in warm parts of the world are traditionally painted white – think of Greek islands, or Cape Dutch houses. Now that might be through lack of alternatives – or lack of imagination – but it is actually a good idea. White paint reflects sunlight, which means the walls absorb less heat. Read MoreCape Town’s bold new water strategy 4 min readIn a document entitled ‘Our Shared Water Future – Cape Town’s Water Strategy’, the City of Cape Town has announced its intention to make a fundamental change in its management of risk – a clear indication that they are taking to heart the lessons learned from the Day Zero near-miss. Read MoreSecurity Team steps out in Style 2 min readOne of the main reasons people move to residential estates is for the security (although, in our case, the great golf course is a close second). Security is of paramount importance and so, when it came time to renew the security contract, the estate management considered carefully tenders from a number of security companies. Read MoreEmpty shopping malls: crisis or opportunity? 3 min readIn an environment in which retail is under pressure, and there’s already an oversupply of shopping centres, mall owners are being forced to rethink how they use their space. Read MoreA matter of some gravity 3 min readThere are very few people by now who don’t acknowledge that renewable energy is the way of the future, but there is that pesky problem with managing peak demand, and the storage of, for example, solar energy for ‘a rainy day’. Storage is the main constraint for the installation of renewable energy, so it’s not surprising that this is a growing field. Read MoreLiving architecture: A Greener Building Approach 3 min readA new design concept is pushing the limits of green building. Extreme as it may seem, this approach is an indication of where architecture is going. Read MoreUnderstanding the Eastern Cape’s Day Zero 5 min readPort Elizabeth has hit Day Zero – that dreaded spectre that had Capetonians tossing and turning in their unwashed sheets a few years ago. In some parts of the city the taps have – literally – been turned off, and water is trucked in by tanker. All this while Cape Town is revelling in full dams and continuing rainfall, but there is a distinct possibility of a Day Zero in Gauteng too. How did we get here? Read MorePolicy allows 5G towers to be installed on private property 3 min read5G will change our lives, as the fifth generation of cell phone technology catapults South Africa into the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With faster connectivity and more bandwidth enabling Augmented Reality, self-driving cars, the Internet of Things, and mobile data connections at unimaginable speeds, 5G is amazing. A whacking great 5G tower erected on your property without your permission? Not so amazing. Read MoreScaling down 4 min readMoving to a retirement estate can be – and should be – a positive, liberating experience. It’s a line in the sand that states that you are no longer planning your life around your children, and that you have time for yourself. It’s a time to decide exactly how you want to live without the albatross of a huge suburban home, lawn, garden and two-car garage full of tools hanging around your neck. It’s time to lighten up. There’s even a word for it: dostadning. Read MoreTop property trend 3 min readWhen we talk of semigration now, we are no longer just talking about the familiar pattern of movement from Gauteng to Cape Town, but about the worldwide counter-urbanisation or de-urbanisation movement, which sees people actively moving away from cities to smaller towns in search of a less stressful, more peaceful country lifestyle, while still retaining their city jobs, if they wish to do so, by working remotely. Read MoreHansgrohe’s electronic mixers 2 min readIf you love beautiful design in the bathroom and kitchen, and recognise the importance of excellent quality that doesn’t compromise on functionality, Hansgrohe’s electronic mixers are the perfect fit for you. While Hansgrohe is known for being a leading bathroom specialist, kitchens have also become an important focus for them in recent years. Their innovative, state-of-the-art mixers are testament to their longstanding commitment to quality. Read MoreCan air conditioners spread coronavirus? 3 min readWhile the country slowly starts to open up after an extensive lockdown period, the spread and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic are far from over. As scientists begin to understand the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, new methods of potential spread are emerging. Read MoreWorking from home is becoming the norm 5 min readSARS-CoV-2 has changed so many things – the way we socialise, the way we work, and – yes – even the way we think. But will it irrevocably change the landscape in which we live? Cities evolved to accommodate the way people worked, so will they now evolve to embrace a new work-life balance? And how will this affect our bottom line as developers? Do we need to think outside of yet another box that we thought was watertight? Read MoreThe real estate market has gone virtual 3 min readVirtual property viewings in South Africa were few and far between pre-COVID-19, but they have been rapidly gaining traction, especially during the national lockdown. As we now begin to adapt to a new, post-pandemic, socially distanced normal, they could become part and parcel of buying and selling a home. So, what exactly does a virtual viewing entail, what are the positives and possible pitfalls, and is the South African property market ready for it? Read MoreThe future of 12J 3 min readIt sounds like a win-win deal: you invest in a small- or medium-sized enterprise (SMME), helping it to grow by increasing its access to equity finance, and in return SARS gives you a handsome tax deduction. From a property investment point of view, many of these 12J enterprises were in the hospitality space, with investors buying into properties that catered to South Africa’s booming tourism industry. Then, in early 2020, COVID-19 struck. Boom turned to bust, leaving investors wondering if there’s any future for 12J. Read MoreRental Guarantees 3 min readBuying a property for rental is a big investment that is not without risk. So, can rental guarantees sweeten the deal? Rental income is key for investors, so developers offer rental guarantees as a way to entice investors to sign on the dotted line. A rental guarantee is usually a net return that a developer promises to pay an investor purchasing a buy-to-let property. Read MorePicking up the slack for municipal incompetence 3 min readSouth African communities are buckling under the weight of municipal mismanagement and broken promises. What role could – and should – developers play in digging local municipalities out of the mess? Read MoreNo trees were harmed in the construction of this skinny house 2 min readThis spectacular, low-impact Frankie Pappas-designed home in the Waterberg sits lightly on the land, appearing to float among the trees. The brief was to design a home that disappears into the landscape, that sits among the rocks and trees and birds, that offers animals and plants and humans equal opportunity to find shelter, and that treats the bushveld with the respect it deserves. Read MoreKeep safe and cool in the pool 3 min readResearchers at the University of South Australia have developed a new microchip that enables continuous monitoring of pH and chlorine levels in swimming pools, and that will vastly improve water safety. New research shows that it can deliver consistent and accurate pool chemistry for reliable pool management, so it can safely be used by individual home owners and estate management. Read MoreRepurposing student housing amid the COVID-19 pandemic 3 min readThe coronavirus pandemic has caused an unprecedented disruption in the student housing sector, because the number of international students coming to the UK has fallen dramatically. This has left cities like Cardiff with an oversupply of high-end, purpose-built student accommodation blocks (PBSAs). Read MoreWild at heart 4 min readThere is a new foodie trend sweeping across five-star hotels, award-winning restaurants and granite-topped kitchens in leafy suburbs. Actually, maybe ‘new’ is not quite the right word. The trend is foraging, and – let’s be honest – it’s hardly new. Read MoreConveyancers support property owners and sellers during COVID-19 9 min readProperty buyers and sellers are facing uncertain times during the COVID-19 pandemic. Buyers who are accustomed to a regular salary cheque are concerned that they will no longer qualify for a home loan, as many consumers face the dire reality of a salary cut, retrenchment, or shorter working hours. All these events can result in a substantial reduction of income. Read MoreOld Mutual survey results are in 6 min readThe outcome of a recently published financial survey amongst the members of the Old Mutual Rewards Programme is a significant one for property industry. Read MoreSensible permaculture for residential estates and developments 4 min readPermaculture is one of those words being bandied about as possibly the only way to save the planet, and to slow down or prevent the demise of humanity. Well, that’s probably a bit over the top, but it is a revolutionary way of looking at how we relate to our world, and – who knows – it might just save the planet after all. Whether you are developing an estate from scratch, managing an existing estate, or just wanting to decrease your personal carbon footprint, permaculture principles can increase efficiency and save costs. Read MoreSmooth and seamless transitions 5 min readA development is not a residential estate – it’s a place with houses in a greater or lesser stage of completion. But there comes a time when the developer steps out and the homeowners association steps in – and from that moment, the estate becomes a community – a place where people live. Read MoreFanie Loubser from Colas SA discusses road maintenance in residential communities < 1 min readFanie Loubser from Colas SA and Louise Martin of Estate Living share updates on Colas’s Covid-19 company protocals. We breakdown a road maintance plan and look at how cost saving can be taken into account through road resurfacing products. Read MoreEstate and community branding understand how this effects property values < 1 min readIn the #BestOfCommunity series, Jeff Gilmour of ARC, Jaime-Lee Gardner and Louise Martin of Estate Living discuss community living spaces in South Africa. In the 3rd episode we look at the estate and community brand. Understanding how public and homeowner sentiment plays role in the value of the collective community and individual properties. Read MoreHunting SARS-Cov-2 3 min readYou know you need to manage COVID-19 but you can’t manage what you can’t measure. So how do you measure the extent of SARS-Cov-2 infection in your estate? Sounds like a long, involved process, but it isn’t. In fact, it can be done really simply. Read MoreRetirees buying off plan: risks and rewards 3 min readBuying off-plan is the norm for new residential estates, but it has proven to be not that popular in the retirement village market. Read MoreCommercial space is standing empty in South African cities 6 min readA 2019 report by the South African Property Owners’ Association (SAPOA) states that nearly 20% of the office space in the Durban CBD and Rosebank (Gauteng) was empty in the last quarter of that year. And that was before office workers skedaddled home en masse and cyber-commuted while battening down the hatches against SARS-CoV-2. What does that mean for our cities, and for the people who live in them? Or, more importantly, the people who don’t live in them. And what does it mean for developers? Read MoreA second life for hotels? 3 min readSouth Africa has had an oversupply of tourist accommodation since at least 2010. With the hotel industry now reeling from COVID-19, what are the prospects for owners and developers of hospitality properties? Read MoreProducts and tools developed by Meyer de Waal 4 min readThe introduction of the National Credit Act had an immediate impact on the approval of credit agreements. The affordability factor, which is the capability of a debtor to pay back a loan became, the lender’s primary focus of a lender before granting a credit facility. Lenders are imposed with severe penalties if found guilty of risky lending but, as the market experienced a major decline in home loan approvals, there was an unsurpassed increase in unsecured lending. Capitec Bank is a prime example of expansion of unsecured lending, and African Bank is an example of a lender that was almost sunk as a result of risky lending practices. Read MoreGreen, green, green 4 min readOne of the main advantages of living in a residential estate is that – usually – you are surrounded by significant tracts of open land. And very often that land will be left in a relatively natural state. This is a good thing for a whole lot of reasons. Read MoreSelling your development: estate agent vs sales team 3 min readYour development is ready for sales, and you need widespread marketing to reach as many potential buyers as possible, followed by a flawless sales process. What is the best way – a dedicated sales team, or an estate agency? Read MoreAre nuclear families really the norm? 5 min readOther than developments specifically designed for retirees, students and/or ‘young professionals’, the homes on estates, and even in apartment blocks, are designed as ‘family homes’, and estates are marketed as places in which families can thrive. But what, exactly, is a family? First let’s look at those ‘family homes’. Read MoreCommunity Scheme COVID-19 Code Of Conduct/Policy & Workplace Plan (Level 4) 4 min readOn 15 March 2020, in terms of Section 3 of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002, the Covid-19 pandemic was classified as a national disaster, due to its potential severity and magnitude. Pursuant thereto, on 29 April 2020, the Risk Adjusted Strategy Regulations were published. These Regulations can be made available upon request. Read MoreTrout 4 min readTrout are originally from the northern hemisphere, but they are a highly sought-after species for epicureans and anglers alike, so they have been introduced worldwide. Their popularity as a fly-angling species makes their introduction into dams or lakes well worth considering. But consider carefully. Read MoreWhat are security companies doing to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic? 2 min readCOVID-19 has had a massive impact on how we interact with others. This impact is particularly felt by essential services staff, who have to continue working despite unsafe conditions. We examine the dangers of COVID-19 to estate security staff, and what companies are doing to keep both their clients and workers safe during this uncertain time. Read MoreCOVID-19 and the property market 3 min readAs we change the way we physically interact, all industries have to change the way they do business – and the real estate industry is no exception. Even before the lockdown, estate agents and prospective sellers were reluctant to let people into their houses – and prospective buyers were reluctant to enter houses where the absent owners may or may not be carriers of SARS-CoV-2. So, even once the lockdown is over, it’s clear we will have to make some serious changes in the way we market, buy and sell property. Read MoreGeckos, lizards and chameleons 5 min readThere can be few things as rewarding as watching a healthy natural mini biome unfold in your own garden. A close encounter with one of our amazing four-legged reptiles reminds me that biodiversity can be maintained in even the smallest of suburban gardens. Read MoreAgility is the new normal 3 min readAt a time when all non-essential services are either in lockdown or reeling from the multiple blows to the economy, a handful of businesses are changing the way they work to stay relevant, and to stay in operation, and to make a difference. Read More5 Ways to keep safe from crime during the lockdown 2 min readWe hope that the increased police and army presence on our streets means that we’re safer from crime as well as the Corona-19 virus during the lockdown. But there will always be those opportunistic thieves that take a chance, so here are some tips from Trellidor to help you stay safe while home during the lockdown. Read MoreUnpacking the National Water Act 5 min readThe National Water Act of 1998 (NWA), which was the first comprehensive legislation adopted immediately after the transition to democracy, has far-reaching implications of which most people are blissfully unaware. Read MoreSolar energy around the world 4 min readThere is a worldwide trend towards the uptake of renewable resources for power generation, but it seems that South Africa is lagging behind. So let’s have a look at what other countries are doing, focusing mainly on solar, and see how we compare. Read MoreHow boreholes work 4 min readIn times of drought, it’s common practice to sink a borehole. Many estates, and individuals, do this without fully appreciating how an aquifer works, and what legal implications are associated with going off grid, even partially. Read MoreInfectious diseases and the workplace 4 min readEmployers – including HOAs – must provide a safe workplace, even if that means insisting on disease tests for employees. During the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak, cruise ships turned into living, floating laboratories for scientists studying the disease. With their close confines and high proportions of older people (who tend to be more vulnerable to the novel coronavirus), combined with their lack of access to the outside world, cruise ships were – tragically, in some cases – the perfect incubator. Read MoreLet’s Talk Property, Hosted by Derek Watts 2 min readLast week’s webinar saw Derek and our expert panel give their opinions on the merits of investing in property on the North Coast of KZN, and brief insights on the SA property market as a whole. Read MoreCall for the designation of construction sector as essential services 3 min readThe construction industry has the potential to create employment opportunities to cushion the impact of an anticipated increase in unemployment in the immediate aftermath of the current nation-wide lockdown. This is according to a submission made by the Construction COVID-19 Rapid Response Task Team (CCRR19TT) to motivate for a phased reactivation of the Construction Sector. The task team is a body representing major organizations in the sector including contractors, property developers, construction professionals, suppliers, and service providers. Read MoreSea Point: An Investor’s Eye View 3 min readSea Point has long been regarded as one of the property jewels of Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard. But does it still offer good investments? With Sea Point’s natural attractions and strong short-stay letting market, but should investors be scared off by talk of ‘carnage’ in the local market, and new regulations around short-term rentals? Read MoreNever let a good crisis go to waste 4 min readThe crisis we are going through is unprecedented in our lifetime – even in living memory. But it’s not unprecedented in the history of the world and, almost invariably, this kind of crisis leads to immense social, technological and philosophical change. The one thing we can be sure of is that life after COVID-19 will be different, but we can’t be sure of the form that difference will take. So it’s up to us to decide how we want to change, and how we want to live in the future. Read MoreAnother brick in the wall 4 min readWhen we think of bricks, we tend to think of either baked clay bricks or cement bricks, both of which have a very high carbon footprint – conventional clay bricks are fired at temperatures of over 1,000C, and cement requires temperatures in excess of 1,400C, which requires the burning of coal with all its attendant environmental fallout. But there are bricks – or brick-like things – that can be produced at much lower temperatures, thereby using much less carbon, and producing less pollution. Some are the result of amazing new technological breakthroughs, and are only in the trail phase, while some are so old as to have been virtually forgotten. Read MoreBuilders face an uncertain post-COVID-19 future 3 min readWith construction not categorised as an essential service, all projects are suspended under the national COVID-19 lockdown – leaving the sector facing a deeply uncertain future. Read MoreVertical forests 4 min readJohannesburg lays claim to being the largest artificially cultivated urban forest in the world, which is great, even if it’s not entirely true. It’s great because it instils a sense of pride in the trees of the city, encouraging citizens and authorities alike to nurture them, and to plant more. Read MoreConservancies 4 min readIf you own, live on, or are developing a piece of land of significant natural value, you will need to come up with a way of ensuring that you manage it responsibly – and the best way to do that is to think beyond your boundary fence. The plants, soil, birds and animals don’t recognise title deeds, so managing for nature requires thinking outside of the strict ownership model of land use. Read MoreHerd immunity 3 min readOur ancestors were devastated by diseases like smallpox, polio and measles, but we hardly give these ailments a thought. They’re just not a threat, due to an interesting phenomenon called herd immunity – a term that’s being optimistically bandied about in relation to COVID-19. Read MoreThe 2019 amendments to BBBEE legislation 2 min readGovernment gazetted amendments to the BBBEE legislation on 31 May 2019, with a six-month implementation timeframe. This limited implementation period could negatively impact on your business, depending on your financial year end, and the date of the next BBBEE verification. Read MoreConradie Park’s model for sustainability 4 min readConradie Park, a new mixed-income, mixed-use housing development in Cape Town, has been launched for sale to the public. Its marketing campaign lauds its ‘affordability, sustainability and security’, but how exactly will it be funded and maintained in the long run? Read MoreSustainable, impactful CSI 4 min readCorporate social investment is a great way for companies – and for estates – to give back to the community. But, while any CSI is a good thing, there is a huge difference between merely diverting funds to a good cause and actually getting involved with the community on a person-to-person basis. The former – at best – improves living standards for the target community, while the latter builds real relationships that can grow into an ongoing circle of benefit. Read MoreTackling salary inequity 5 min readUnder capitalism, the argument goes, it’s every man for himself. Through the relentless pursuit of self-interest, everyone benefits, as if an invisible hand were guiding each of us toward the common good. Everyone should accordingly try to get as much as they can, not only for their goods but also for their labour. Read MoreThe grass is greener 3 min readAs South Africa becomes more water-stressed, many home owners and estate managers are considering replacing lawns with artificial turf. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so you need to look carefully at how the two options stack up against each other in terms of eco-friendliness, durability, and convenience. Read MoreFree telephonic consultation for Sectional Title Scheme dwellers < 1 min readMarina Costas of BBM Law is offering free telephonic or Zoom 30 min conversations from Thursday the 2nd of April until the end of lock down from 11 am – 1 pm. All Trustees can join one meeting and ask top of mind questions around the implications and requirements of the lockdown on Sectional Title Schemes. Read MoreGiving developers a greener EDGE 3 min readWhile green building practices – and Green Building Council certification – are known to improve sustainability and reduce running costs, EDGE certification is now also showing its worth as a marketing tool for estate developers. Read MoreDistrict Six open for development 4 min readProperty developers are encouraged to invest in District Six, despite rumours that the historic Cape Town precinct might be declared a National Heritage site. That’s according to Shahied Ajam, chairperson of the District Six Working Committee (D6WC). Read MoreSchooling solutions 3 min readEstates offer families the opportunity to ‘live, work, and play’ in a single space, which has led to a demand for practical schooling solutions in or close to estates. But schools take up a lot of space, so it’s worth considering smaller collaborative learning spaces, fuelled by online educational centres and curriculums. Read MoreCOVID-19 3 min readOkay, it’s official. COVID-19 is a pandemic – and it’s caused a national and international emergency. This is serious, and – yes – there is a risk of contracting the disease, and even of dying from it. But is this really the biggest risk? As with many things, it is easier to see the problems ‘out there’ and ignore the ones in our heads. So, while I’m not for one moment denying the seriousness of COVID-19, let’s look at the real risks. Read MoreSingle mothers constitute a growing demographic of home buyers in South Africa 3 min readSingle moms have become a force to be reckoned with in the property market. Developers who want their estates to appeal to this growing demographic will need to keep in mind factors such as security, open spaces, schools and modern living units. Read MoreMud buildings of Groot Constantia 3 min readShould we be looking to the past for ideas for alternative building methods to reduce our carbon footprint? It makes sense, because traditional, low-tech building methods are almost naturally low carbon-intensive. Read MoreTop influential women developers share their industry experience 3 min readWhile the property industry has historically been dominated by men, an increasing number of women are making their mark in property development. Read MoreBDI pod homes 3 min readAs sustainability and the desire to live off grid have become mainstream, so too has the trend of tiny homes risen in popularity. We take a closer look at BDI’s PanGoPod home and explore how developers can utilise these methods by thinking out of the box. Read MoreSomerset Nurse’s’ Home to become affordable housing 3 min readAfter years of controversy, the old Helen Bowden Nurses’ Home near Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront is set to be developed into social housing following the City’s decision to rezone the site for this purpose. However, the building remains occupied by the Reclaim The City activist group, who moved in in March 2017 and renamed the site Ahmed Kathrada House. Read MoreThe Property Practitioners Act 2 min readThe Property Practitioner Act is a new piece of legislation that, once it is signed into law – probably mid-2020 – will replace the Estate Agency Affairs Act of 1976. Its main purpose is to establish the Property Practitioner Regulatory Authority (PPRA), which will replace the Estate Agency Affairs Board; to regulate the affairs of all property practitioners; to allow for transformation in the property sector; and to provide for consumer protection. Read MoreWhere does Johannesburg get its water 3 min readJohannesburg is a unique city because it was built without a local water supply. It has become the only major city in the world totally reliant on water sourced from distant rivers and pumped across mountain ranges. This creates a vulnerability that few appreciate when buying or developing real estate. Read MoreIs overpopulation to blame for climate change 3 min readA seemingly innocuous comment about overpopulation at this year’s World Economic Forum in Davos highlights how oversimplification of the issues and processes can exacerbate the problem, and shift blame from the perpetrators to the victims. Read MoreSize counts 4 min readOne of the main reasons people move into residential estates is to recreate the sense of community typical of villages or small, well-defined suburbs. People knew their neighbours – and their neighbours’ pets – and they memorised each other’s phone numbers. In their heads! Kids played in the street or in public open space, wandered in and out of each other’s houses, and only came home when they were hungry. Read MoreIs it worth building a doggy park on an estate? 2 min readBuilding a dog park on an estate can bring in increased revenue and foster a sense of community. Many of the drawbacks of being dog-friendly can be mitigated through careful planning. Read MoreBiometrics: Is Gait ID The New Gate ID? 2 min readNew technologies allow security teams to identify guests – and intruders – by how they walk. Is this the future of estate access? Read MoreEco-friendly design and sustainability define modern lifestyle estates 2 min readThe worldwide movement towards eco-friendly living has taken centre stage in the design ethos of lifestyle estates across the country, directing architectural and decor trends without compromising on luxury and style. Read MoreForget streets paved in gold – plastic roads are the future, and Jeffreys Bay is leading the way. 3 min readJeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape is best known as a top surf spot, home to the perfect wave. The J-Bay Open is one of the stops on the Men’s Surfing Championship Tour, and boasts the longest right-hand point break on the planet. Read MoreKZN fastest growing wealth market in SA 3 min readThe AfrAsia Bank SA Wealth Report for 2019 has named Durban-Umhlanga-Ballito corridor as the fastest growing wealth market in South Africa, with a 25% growth trajectory reported over the last decade. Read MoreZimbali Lakes Resort – Development Site available for development < 1 min readEstate Living discusses opportunities for development at the gorgeous Zimbali Lakes Resort Read MoreServest Landscaping – What makes a great community landscaping partner < 1 min readSebelo Khoza from Servest Landscaping chats to Estate Living about what makes a great community landscaping partner. Read MoreProperty Practitioners Act: What it means for developers 3 min readEarly October 2019 saw the Property Practitioners Act of 2019 signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The new law was generally welcomed by property practitioners … even if there was initially some confusion about who exactly counts as a property practitioner! Read MoreDr Mulder does it again 2 min readChris Mulder is no stranger to winning awards. In his illustrious career, Dr Mulder – together with his team from CMAI Architects – has won numerous awards from US and South African professional associations and universities since he founded the firm in 1980. Read MoreWhy developing retirement facilities under R1.5m is a no-brainer 3 min readWe all know retirement facilities are the new big investment opportunity, and research shows that the R1.5 million price mark is the sweet spot. The most recent census conducted in 2011 put the total South African population at 57.7 million people. Of this number, 5.4% were aged 65 and over. When compared to the same figure in 2000, only 3.7% were aged 65 and over. Read MoreHow does Johannesburg measure up as a megacity? 3 min readJoburg is fast becoming a megacity, but how does it compare with existing African megacities for return on investment? Cairo, Kinshasa and Lagos all carry the status of megacity – cities with a population of at least 10 million inhabitants. Fast on their heels are Dar es Salaam, Luanda and Johannesburg, which are predicted to attain the status of megacity by 2030, according to the United Nations. Read MoreBamboo houses 3 min readBamboo is sustainable and easy to grow, and South Africa has the perfect conditions for cultivation. Could this be the answer as a building material for affordable housing? Read MoreHow green is green? 3 min readTo take the greening of your estate seriously, you must consider each step from conception to design, through the building process and continuing to operation and management. Read MoreXers mark the spot 2 min readAs Gen X hits 50, existing and planned estates need to re-evaluate their position on retirement, and on multi-generational living. As the oldest of the Gen Xers are turning 50, and watching their baby boomer parents ‘raging against the [dimming] of the light’, they are starting to ponder their own mortality, potential morbidity and – shock, horror, gasp – old age! Read MoreEstate Living interview with Santam < 1 min readLouise Martin, COO of Estate Living, interviews Santams Head of specialist real estate, Karl Bishop, on Santam’s development guarantees. Read MoreA global trend 2 min readIt should seem unsurprising to most of us that urban space is at a growing premium. It’s been a growing trend across the world since the industrial revolution, but particularly so in the last few decades as people flock to urban areas. Read MoreCustomer complaints & social media 3 min readNot so long ago, if somebody wanted to have their complaint heard, the best options were to write a letter to the newspaper (and hope that it would be published) or dial into the radio. now, in the digital age, everyone has a voice. Never before has it been easier to have your concerns or thoughts heard – no matter how insignificant or trivial they are – and that has implications for estate managers Read MoreProtecting your investment with insurance 3 min readYour home is likely to be one of the most valuable assets you will own. While you put a lot of time, effort and money into making it the ideal home, it is equally important to keep yourself informed on how well this investment is protected. Read MoreEstate living: getting ahead in today’s risky property market 2 min readAs with anything in life, knowledge is power and in today’s risky economic climate, investors need as much as possible to make bold, calculated investment moves that yield great results. Cue Estate Living, South Africa’s leading resource and specialist consultancy within the community living environments. Masters at building relationships and identifying new opportunities, Louise Martin and Jaime-Lee Gardner’s innovative services are helping investors and developers all over the country to understand their market. Read MoreHow to find the luxury in city living 2 min readFind out how luxury in city living can transform your daily routine. Ease traffic woes and enjoy urban comfort. Read MoreWhat deteriorating municipal infrastructure means for residential estates 5 min readNot a day goes by without one hearing of some municipal crisis somewhere in the country. These range from banal but extremely annoying stories of billing crises, lack of budgetary control and bloated bureaucracies to the horror story unfolding in Emfuleni, where total collapse of the municipality as a functional entity has unleashed a tsunami of raw sewage flowing unabated along the streets and through the buildings, as it makes its way to the nearest river. Read MoreSimple, transparent utility metering can be a differentiator for developers 3 min readIn a worryingly flat property market, developers are facing an ever-growing challenge to find value-adds to help them move units. Read MoreInvesting in a sustainable future 3 min readWe’ve come a long way since Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth documentary in 2006. Although not the first we’d heard of climate change and the effects of globalisation, it was an eye-opener for many and it sparked fierce debate. Things that were only spoken of then are now becoming reality, and we probably all understand the severity of global climate change, and what this means for future generations. Read MoreBuilding Retirement Communities 3 min readPeople aren’t retiring like they used to. Instead, many are working longer out of necessity or from a desire to remain vital and engaged. Read MoreKeep it Clean 3 min readProbably one of the most difficult issues facing estate managers is waste management. It’s a truly Sisyphean endeavour – just when you think you’ve cleared the pile, it grows back. But creative waste management is essential, not only to maintain the beauty and integrity of our estates, but of – yes – the whole world. Read MoreFire Risk Management for Estates 3 min readEvery time we hear stories of veld fires, we are alerted to the very real danger to our homes of a runaway fire. The devastating Knysna fires of 2017 are a vivid reminder of just how quickly a fire can rage out of control and cause millions of rands of damages. Coupled with domestic risks such as faulty wiring or appliances, it’s essential that bodies corporate and trustees review their estate’s insurance to ensure that they are adequately covered against fire risk. Read MoreThe Next Chapter < 1 min readARC (Association for Residential Community), proactively supports Homeowners Associations and Bodies Corporate, their management teams and trustees, to establish, maintain and enhance the value of residential communities and mixed-use developments. Read MoreEvergreen Sitari 4 min readA recently concluded joint venture between Evergreen Retirement Holdings and the Uvest Property Group will see the development of Evergreen Sitari, a premier retirement village, set within the Sitari Country Estate in Somerset West. Read MoreBamboo 5 min readBamboo is one of the world’s oldest natural building materials. In Asia and South America, where it occurs naturally, it’s been the building material of choice for centuries for everything from homes to bridges and scaffolding. This wonder plant of the past offers a multitude of options for the contemporary homemaker. Read MoreA Home With A Thousand Views 3 min readIt’s hard to choose between adventure and security or travelling and home comforts, so – here’s the good news – you don’t have to. Read MoreRetirement developer expands into KZN region 3 min readThe KwaZulu-Natal province is set to see the development of a number of new retirement villages, designed as vibrant communities to accommodate active, healthy and happy retirees. Read MoreBuilders DIY: How to Make a DIY Chalkboard Serving Tray < 1 min readIn this video we show you how to make a DIY chalkboard serving tray that’s cute and easy to make. Read MoreHow Do Insecticides Work < 1 min readIn this video Tanya Visser talks about the different types of insecticides and how to use them. Insecticides are ideal to use for eliminating insects in your garden. Make sure you choose an insecticide that’s suitable for your needs in order to get the best results Read MoreUsing Water Crystals For Your Plants < 1 min readThe Efekto water-wise crystals is a polymer which attracts water and it’s completely biodegradable and non-toxic. This means it’s safe and good for your plants. The crystals turn int o jelly when mixed with water, plants then absorb the water from the jelly.It’s perfect to use for garden beds, lawns, plants in containers, hanging baskets and more. Read MoreHow To Use Fired Earth Woodworks < 1 min readFired Earth Woodworks is a water based wood stainer and sealer that’s perfect for interior and exterior use. Read MoreProtect your walls with Fired Earth Breakthrough 5-in-1 < 1 min readOne paint with five applications. It’s a world-first in paint technology. Read MoreBuilders DIY: Paint your ceiling with Fired Earth Ceiling Paint < 1 min readIt applies pink and dries white – so you’ll never miss a spot again. Read MoreBuilders DIY: Geometric feature wall < 1 min readTransform a bland white space into a stunning feature wall in a snap with this short and sweet DIY video! Read MoreRedefine typology 2 min readThe exclusive Somerset Lakes is situated in Somerset West close to the Hottentots Holland Mountains, False Bay, and the Western Cape’s wonderful wine country. Read MoreBreaking Ground with Cape Town student accommodation at the right price 3 min read‘Our upcoming studio units in Obs are ideal for first-time investors’ – Rawson Developers’s Brad Morgan. Smaller units geared to students and short-term renters, sold at competitive price points to first-time buyers or investors, is Rawson Developers’s winning formula that is leading the property market in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs. Read MoreSouth Africa’s premier property expo back in Joburg! 2 min readSouth Africa’s premier property exhibition is making its way to Johannesburg once again on 12 – 14 October at the Sandton Convention Centre. The Property Buyer Show is designed to introduce you to the right brands to help guide you along your property journey. Meet leading brands such as Private Property, Standard Bank, Select Property, Nedbank, Seven Capital, Just Property, Old Mutual, RealNet, REMAX, Lightstone Property and more… Read MoreNew jozi developments may have to include affordable housing 5 min readExplore new Jozi developments aimed at affordable housing to tackle Johannesburg’s pressing housing shortage. Read MoreWhy estates should join association of residential communities and estate living partnership 2 min readThe Association of Residential Communities (ARC) has been in existence for over 10 years, with 11 founder members, 10 chapters around the country and over 300 member estates, home to over 200,000 residents and representing 58% of the market in respect of number of homes. Read MoreIf you build it, they will come – or will they? 5 min readSo, you’ve gazed upon your ‘fields of corn’ … you’ve dreamt, you’ve designed and you’ve built. Now what? Do you sit back and ‘wait for them to come’, as Ray Kinsella (a.k.a. Kevin Costner), the Iowa farmer in the movie Field of Dreams, did? If you’re Kevin Costner or some other A-list Hollywood star, chances are they’ll come in droves; unfortunately, the rest of us must rely on good, not-soold-fashioned sales communication strategies and good marketing, which curates leads, from a qualified market. Read MoreBest practice transition 5 min readA development is not a residential estate – it’s a place with houses in a greater or lesser stage of completion. But there comes a time when the developer steps out, and the homeowners association steps in – and from that moment, the estate becomes a community – a place where people live. Read MoreGoing green is profitable 3 min readIt’s good business to protect natural areas within your housing estate, not only because they make it a nicer living space that can command a higher property price, but also because the functions they provide have monetary value for both you as the property owner and also the municipality within which you live. Read MoreLandscape construction 3 min readBrand image is everything. We understand the importance of this, which is why we ensure that your image reflects perfection and elegance. Read MoreSecurity and beyond security 5 min readA professional security presence with 24/7 staffed access is a given, but sometimes a developer needs to add an extra loss prevention and safety component to its security plan. Read MoreFibre is the digital differentiator but what is the cost to you? 2 min readAs a developer, you are already adding fibre to new properties; in fact, you may very well be retrofitting it to old buildings. Why? Because fibre is the digital differentiator. It adds value to a property and is a make-or-break factor in the buying decisions of property and business owners alike. Read MoreMobile’s next generation 3 min readAs providers prepare to roll out 5G mobile technology, what does this mean for us? A generation ago, mobile video calls were the stuff of spy movies and science fiction. Now, as mobile technology enters its fifth wave of evolution, we’re stepping into a future that not even James Bond or Star Trek could have imagined. And that’s not hype. Read MoreThe battle of the brands 3 min readThere are people who get a thrill out of picking out new furniture and appliances when they move house – and then there are the rest of us, which explains the growing appreciation of, and demand for, integrated appliances. Read MoreGetting the retail mix right in mixed-use developments 3 min readGone are the days when developers took a shot in the dark choosing retail tenants, with some white elephants that followed. Read MoreSweet spot – Tongaat Hulett Developments 6 min readThe beautiful plantations of sugar cane that are such an intrinsic part of the landscape of the KZN North Coast are transforming into new urban spaces made up of well-planned mixed-use precincts, and also into green open space and rehabilitated coastal forest. Read MoreUrban regeneration vs gentrification 6 min readRejuvenating inner-city neighbourhoods can be an uplifting, progressive and profitable enterprise, but it’s not as simple as that. Read MoreDem bones 6 min readYou’ve probably heard all the hype about Maropeng and the Cradle of Humankind, but there is a lot more to it than the tourism marketers make out. Read MoreFTTX Council Africa workshop for estate managers and property developers < 1 min readEstate Living and the FTTX Council Africa will once again be hosting a Property Stakeholder Workshop during the annual FTTX Council Africa Conference taking place at the Durban Exhibition Centre in September 2018. Read MoreWork hard, work fair, nobody hurt 3 min readConstruction is a hazardous endeavour, so here’s how you can make it as safe as possible – and stay on the right side of the law. Let’s say, for example, ABC Development and Property Management is planning to build a new ultra-modern clubhouse at ABC Golf Estate. Read MoreBuilders DIY: DIY Kitchen Stand < 1 min readAndrew Donkin and Builders Warehouse show you how to build your own DIY kitchen Stand. Read MoreBuilders DIY: How to build a Kitchen < 1 min readCreating a kitchen with off-the-shelf units not only makes building your kitchen a breeze, but is really affordable too. Read MoreProactive Security is the best protection for todays retirement village 3 min readSecurity is top of mind for people looking for a retirement village, so cutting edge security systems such as CCTV surveillance, intercom systems and 24-hour security guards are the norm – much as they are on many existing residential estates. But, according to Edward van der Linde of JNCS Beyond Security, the best-of-breed security goes beyond these standard measures. Read MoreWireless – the 5G vision 2 min readMobile and wireless data are expected to increase a thousandfold over the next decade as more than 50 billion devices, all of which will be able to access and share data, anywhere and any time, connect to the cloud by 2020. Read MoreDynamic security solutions with Enforce Security Excellerate Services’ 3 min readCentral to any estate security product offering should be the understanding that estate security is not only about keeping the criminals out, but also about managing the behaviour of those that belong in the community. This includes residents, personal and recreational guests, staff and contractors. Read MoreSmart City: Security adds value to estates 3 min readMost companies and HOAs strive to appoint a board of directors that will be competent and effective in providing leadership and good governance but, in my opinion, vested interests and limited stakeholder perspectives often reduce the long-term effectiveness of their efforts. Read MoreTreasure in the cellar 4 min readPerspectives change, and that’s just one of the reasons you need to keep an open mind. This whole management-speak gobbledygook of “thinking outside the box”, “blue-sky thinking”, and – my favourite – “win-win situation”… they’re all just words, until they’re backed up by action. So I was recently delighted to actually witness a bit of corporate blue-sky, out-the-box thinking that really did produce a win-win situation. Read MoreOpen up your Views 3 min readIf there’s one strong design feature that defines homes in a modern estate, it has to be expansive, frameless glass doors, enabling a seamless transition from inside to outside, and letting in tons of natural light. Read MoreA new semigration destination 2 min readThe Western Cape may be the primary destination for inlanders seeking a coastal lifestyle, but soaring property prices in the province, and Cape Town in particular, have made potential home buyers turn their focus to the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) North and South coasts. Read MoreEnigma Private Estate in KZN sets new records 2 min readHaving launched 9 months ago, Enigma Private Estate in KwaZulu-Natal has had a positive response, so positive that this new development is in the lead as the fastest selling estate in the greater Umhlanga area. More interestingly, the beginning of this year has been one of the most successful sales phases to date. The recent announcement confirming that construction is set to commence at the end of April 2018 has stimulated a strong response from the market, with the sales team achieving R30 million in sales in just one week. Read MoreSilence is Golden 2 min readNoise is one of the major stressors of urban living, so almost all residential estates include a clause about noise in their Code of Conduct. Read MoreWireless – the 5G vision 2 min readMobile and wireless data are expected to increase a thousandfold over the next decade as more than 50 billion devices, all of which will be able to access and share data, anywhere and any time, connect to the cloud by 2020. Read MoreWater and Real Estate – Making the Connection 3 min readFor decades, residential real estate developers and managers have worked within a given set of relationships between themselves, the municipality as service provider, the state as regulator and the investors whose primary interests they serve. Read MoreOccupational health and safety act (OHS) 2 min readAt a recent health and safety workshop, the question of contractor responsibility was raised in cases where the homeowners’ association (HOA) of the estate agrees to take responsibility for a contractor hired by the owner of a residence to perform work on the owner’s behalf. Read MoreEstates of Play 5 min readSince the advent of the first golf estate in South Africa, Selborne Parkin KwaZulu-Natal, which opened for play in 1987, the golf estate phenomenon has been characterised by often unforeseen change. The developments at Selborne were unusual, as they moved the estate away from its original function as a working dairy farm into Denis Barker’s dream of a residential golf estate. Read MoreHow will we live in 2025? 4 min readAs early as 2025 homes could look vastly different. Read MoreDay Zero 16 min readIn September 2017, when it became clear the City of Cape Town had few viable solutions for a drought of potentially precedent-setting proportions, members of a non-profit organisation, Water Shortage South Africa, took matters into their own hands. CEO and water expert Benoit le Roy began planning for a proactive campaign to lobby the United Nations for aid and expertise. “This (drought) is bigger than South Africa can handle,” Le Roy said “How does a country handle four million refugees?” Read MoreRegulation of roads in secure estates 3 min readOver the past couple of decades, the number of secure estates in South Africa, both residential and commercial/ industrial, has increased exponentially. This has been largely driven by security concerns because of the escalating crime rate in the country. Read MoreSeeing value in the Life Right model 4 min readOne of the biggest business surprises in the latter half of 2017 was PSG’s investment of R 675 million in the Evergreen Lifestyle retirement business. Read MoreSibaya Coastal Precinct: What’s on the cards for 2018 7 min readThe 1 000 hectare Sibaya Coastal Precinct on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast is well on its way to realising its vision as a mixed-use estate for every generation, with new residential and commercial developments, as well as a 2 000-learner school developed by the ADvTECH Academies Brand, in the pipeline Read MoreHuge demand sees rapid uptake in Mount Edgecombe Retirement Village – Over 60% of units sold in phase one 3 min readWith people today living longer and opting for a more active lifestyle, when planning for their future retirement many have no desire to spend their latter years in a typical old age home but prefer a far more independent and active lifestyle – all within a secure location and with medical facilities readily available. Read MoreWaterfall wins International Property Award 3 min readAt a ceremony held at the iconic Savoy Hotel in London on 4 December, Waterfall Management Company was awarded the International Best Mixed-use Development 2017/2018 for the Waterfall development. Read MoreBattle of the appliance brands 3 min readToday’s executive and luxury properties have one thing in common – they come equipped with fitted, state-of-the-art appliances. The oven is already installed, and often a fridge and washing machine too. Read MoreBiodiverse places that connect people to their environment – By the Servest Environmental Team 4 min readA new awareness is spreading across the world and it is bringing tremendous hope and excitement. People now understand the vital importance of making our individually small, but collectively massive contribution to the protection of all life on Earth. We are increasingly more willing to practise consumer restraint at home and at our workplaces. Read MoreStudent accommodation – a robust investment opportunity 4 min readIn 2009, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) confirmed there was a serious shortage of student accommodation in and around universities and campuses in South Africa. Fast forward to 2018, and the situation remains largely unchanged, with a constant influx of students from all around the country. Read MoreAffordable estate living thrives in Joburg south 3 min readThe south of Johannesburg has its fair share of lifestyle estates, but what stands out about these is the proliferation of highly affordable cluster and apartment offerings within these gated communities, offering residents all the facilities of the lifestyle estate but within reach of a young professional’s budget. Read MoreSome of the main pros of having a GYM at HOME 2 min readMany of us aspire to being fitter, stronger and healthier overall than we were yesterday (or at least maintain the level), and one of the best ways to achieve this is by exercising – and the more appropriate the exercise the bigger the gain. Read MoreSteyn City Properties CEO named Business Person of the Year 2 min readGiuseppe Plumari, CEO of Steyn City Properties, has been named Business Person of the Year at the Nedbank Business Excellence Awards 2017, hosted by the Italian-South Africa Chamber of Commerce and Industries at a gala dinner last night at the Wanderers Club in Illovo, Johannesburg. Read MoreFTTX Conference 2017 – Cape Town ICC: 3 – 5 October 2017 3 min readUnder the patronage of Dr Siyabonga Cwele, Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services, Dr Andile Ngcaba, President FTTX Council Africa, the CEO Juanita Clark and other dignitaries, the 6th Annual FTTX Council Africa Conference was held at the CTICC, Cape Town, from 3 to 5 October 2017. Read MoreWhat makes a modern home better? 4 min readTwo words define modern lifestyles – mobility and flexibility. Building a contemporary home or home office, therefore, has become all about embracing these freedoms, in design elements and materials chosen. Read MoreSecuring your Information: Arabella Country Estate’s Protection of Personal Information Act Project 4 min readArabella Country Estate’s Homeowners’ Association (HOA) management have always viewed the protection of the personal information of residents, visitors and other stakeholders on the estate as an important issue.In early 2016, the estate management initiated a project to implement measures to address their concerns and reinforce their strong commitment to good leadership, governance and compliance practices. Read MoreCape Town’s signature urban spaces 5 min readTen years ago, a desirable lifestyle would probably have been to own a modest house in the suburbs with a pretty garden, located a decent distance from the city for work. Today’s young professionals have a completely different outlook and it’s pushing developers to think way outside of four concrete walls. Read MorePropertuity: Bringing Durban’s grande dames back to life 3 min readWith land at a premium and in short supply wherever in South Africa you may be, property developers are now steering towards repurposing existing buildings rather than starting from scratch. Read MoreCentury Property Developments: One size for all 3 min readThe residential property market, just like any other market today, continues to evolve, and one developer is fast off the mark when it comes to meeting the changing needs of today’s property consumer. Read MoreFire-mitigation – the new priority 2 min readThe New Priority in construction and building maintenance – Passive fire protection through fire compartments. Architects, engineers, developers and contractors need to look beyond the Building Regulations to proactively seek and apply new solutions to mitigating the spread of fire in buildings. Read MoreCMAI Architects 5 min read“As long as I am useful, I want to be around and as long as I am around, I want to be useful” Dr Chris Mulder, Founder, Chairman and CEO of CMAI Architects. “I love my work; it is my hobby, my life and my passion and I am in the fortunate position that I share my work with my family who are all involved somehow or the other”, says Dr Chris Mulder who set up CMAI in 1980 with his wife Pat upon their return from America. Read MoreAnother vote of confidence for Cornubia 3 min readThe beginning of May this year marks a milestone for MMI Holdings as it takes occupation of its new R306 million KwaZulu-Natal regional headquarters. The milestone is equally significant to Tongaat Hulett Developments as the new building adds to the body of evidence that Cornubia; KwaZulu-Natal’s most ambitious mixed-use property project is booming. Read MoreInteresting Easter Traditions from Across the Globe 3 min readA typical South African Easter day could go something like this… attend church, eat to many hot cross buns, enjoy an Easter egg hunt, and then spend the rest of the day in a horizontal position. Others are out of town enjoying a mini-break. For some lucky folks, they have the opportunity to travel to far away exotic places, enjoying their Easter traditions with ice and a little colourful umbrella. Read MoreBest practice for transitioning developments 4 min readAlmost every aspect of life can be described in terms of relationships, and the development and growth of a residential community is no exception. Like relationships between people, relationships within residential communities evolve, and we call that process “transitioning”. And, just like evolving relationships between people, transitioning in communities can be harmonious or acrimonious, or even downright nasty. Read MoreEdison Property Group – the time for integrated design 4 min readMixed-use development in South Africa started gathering momentum in the late 1990s. It aimed to re-connect people with their workplaces, homes, shops and leisure activities, especially as road congestion continued to increase in our major cities. Read MoreFibre to the home – the next generation utility 5 min readToday telecommunications are as much part of life as electricity and water. There are many telecommunications operators and service providers to choose from, and many companies can offer you a next-generation broadband network. These broadband networks will connect ultra-high-speed – 1 Gbps and above − to homes, offices and premises around your development, whether business park, residential community or mixed use. Read MoreUrban designs for future cities 3 min readFounded in 1996, with offices in Durban and Johannesburg, Iyer has been involved in numerous large-scale projects such as Sibaya Coastal Precinct, Moses Mabhida Stadium Precinct and Cornubia, to name just a few. Read MoreTechnology the fourth industrial revolution 4 min readDark fibre, dirty movies and sewerage pipes – it sounds a little seedy and sordid, but it’s all part of Link Africa’s mission to bring us closer to the limitless world of the Internet through fibre optics. Read MoreLights, Camera, Action – Estate security that delivers on demand 4 min readVizual Security was established in 2005, in response to a real need in the market for a truly holistic and fully integrated security services offering. Initially Vizual provided primary services including cleaning and hygiene, landscaping and garden services, as well as physical security and manned guarding. Then the founding members of Vizual Security identified a need in the property development and secure estate market for a unique security services offering that would present a fully integrated security solution, together with an attractive and affordable long-term financing model. This would benefit the developers of estates and in particular homeowners’ associations who find it challenging to raise finance for these bespoke projects. Read MoreNew urbanisation with Amdec Group 4 min readThe past decade has seen a surge in mixed-use property development, a concept described by developers as a space that provides the public with a place that combines living with business and pleasure. The growth and development of South Africa’s major cities in recent years has made space one of the most valuable commodities of our time, but is the mixed-use property concept really all that new? Read MoreA new vision for urban renewal 5 min readWhat makes an area attractive to residential and business investors? Good security, aesthetic appeal or convenient access to amenities? For most of us experiential beings, it’s the perfect combination of all three. But employment and budget constraints sometimes prevent us from achieving the picturesque suburban ideal that so many seek. So what if there was a formula that could improve on what’s already been established? Read MoreAn alternative financing model: Crowdfunding 7 min readRealty Africa is a services company in the sub-Saharan region. Their dream is to empower local landowners, developers and architects in sub-Saharan Africa by developing new services and seeking partnerships with other companies. They want to create a total service portfolio that supports local real estate professionals and enables their businesses. Read MoreAll along the watchtower 4 min readWith more than 10 000 registered security companies, South Africa has one of the largest private security industries worldwide. The extent to which we rely on the private sector for our personal safety and security is exemplified by the fact that there are 2.5 security personnel for every police officer in the country – and this number is growing exponentially with our crime rate. Out of necessity, private security performs functions in the public sphere which used to be the sole domain of the South African Police Service. Read MoreThe value of brand publicity 3 min readIn the growing and highly competitive landscape of property development, creating a clearly defined brand proposition supported by the right sales and marketing strategy is an essential component of any new development. Read MoreSales-driven communication 4 min readCurrent statistics show boundaries of 6 000-plus residential communities in the country and solid growth of 15% in the development and construction of residential communities annually. Competition in the market is healthy but fierce, and we know that a brand communication strategy is imperative. Read MoreTongaat Hulett Developments Open for business 4 min readTongaat Hulett is still primarily what it has always been: a major agribusiness involved in farming, milling and refining sugar cane throughout Southern Africa. But for the past 25 years its development division has also been converting surplus agricultural land into infrastructurally serviced real estate for residential, commercial, industrial, resort and mixed-use developments in KwaZulu-Natal. Read More
![As Gen X hits 50, existing and planned estates need to re-evaluate their position on retirement, and on multi-generational living. As the oldest of the Gen Xers are turning 50, and watching their baby boomer parents ‘raging against the [dimming] of the light’, they are starting to ponder their own mortality, potential morbidity and – shock, horror, gasp – old age!](https://www.estate-living.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/staging-2816464.jpg)
