News Up to date news and insights from in and around your community What would you like to read? CommunityDeveloperIndustry 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 MoreDiscover the Future of Smart Living with PEC Utilities and EV Chargers < 1 min readStay charged with PEC Utilities and EV chargers, leading the way in sustainable infrastructure and community convenience. Read MoreView more video news View all video Ensuring 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 MoreIs your estate ready for POPI? 3 min readUnderstand the POPI Act and its requirements for estate management regarding personal information of homeowners and tenants. 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 MoreRegal Escapes Luxury Bespoke offerings for July and August 3 min readEmbark on a luxury journey with Regal Escapes, offering bespoke ocean cruises and unforgettable travel experiences in South Africa. 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 MoreLoad more Living by Design 3 min readExplore the complexities of retirement and learn how financial planning can lead to a fulfilling life after work. Read MoreRegal 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 MoreLife right ownership at The Somerset 2 min readA Life Right purchase is a transaction where you and your spouse/partner, as the nominated occupants, attain the right to live in a particular house for the duration of your lifetime, after which your capital is returned with an additional profit share, depending on the options chosen. Read MoreDiscover the Future of Smart Living with PEC Utilities and EV Chargers < 1 min readStay charged with PEC Utilities and EV chargers, leading the way in sustainable infrastructure and community convenience. 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 MoreEstate Living KZN Community Management Networking Breakfast < 1 min readDiscover how to boost resident satisfaction and efficiency at our Networking Breakfast for property professionals. 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 MoreGetting teens away from screens 5 min readUnderstand the importance of keeping teens away from screens by creating vibrant outdoor spaces for active living and bonding. 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 MoreHow to control mould in your home 2 min readLearn how to control mould effectively in your home by managing moisture, humidity, and building materials. Read MoreGarden grabs 3 min readDiscover the value of a spacious garden in Birmingham and the interest it has drawn from property developers in recent times. 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 MoreThe Garden Route’s undiscovered gem 4 min readExplore the stunning Garden Route estate perched on Indian Ocean cliffs, offering luxury living and breathtaking views. Read MoreE-bikes 3 min readE-bikes offer pedal assistance to make cycling easier and more accessible. Discover the truth about E-bikes today. Read MoreDo due diligence before investing in an estate 2 min readLearn the essential tips for investing in an estate to ensure a secure and informed decision on your investment. 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 MoreEstate Living KZN Community and Property Management Networking Event < 1 min readEstate Living is proud to host our next Community, Estate, Property Management Networking Event in Durban, following the success of our sessions in Cape Town and George. 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 MoreFirst-time buyers: Here’s how to actually DO what your bank expects 4 min readAre you a first-time buyer? Discover essential tips to qualify for your dream home and navigate the housing market effectively. 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 MoreSan Parks Awards Chiefs Tented Camps 2 min readExplore the San parks awards and their significance in celebrating the beauty of Namaqualand’s wildflower season. 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 MoreInvesting in Water 7 min readThere’s a new buzz phrase doing the rounds – investing in water. Is that wise? Is it even possible? Read MoreWhy Golf Is the Perfect Game for Women 4 min readExplore how golf can help women excel on the course and overcome challenges in life. Learn about the mental growth, honesty, and self-confidence that golf fosters. 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 MoreYour guide to food and wine pairing 3 min readDiscover essential tips for successful wine pairing. Enhance your meals with the right wine choices and expert advice. Read MoreNew Airbnb rules set to benefit many Sectional Title schemes 3 min readFind out how the new Airbnb rules will affect buy-to-let investment and property letting in major cities. Understand the compliance and tax requirements that Airbnb hosts will face. Read MoreLekwena Wildlife Estate 4 min readExplore Lekwena Wildlife Estate, where modern comfort meets nature with giraffes grazing at your doorstep. Read MoreLocal author launches children’s book < 1 min readExplore the creative journey of a children’s book that transforms a backyard into a thrilling adventure with imagination. Read MoreHOA update 5 min readStay informed with the latest HOA update on traffic measures and reports from Kingswood’s meetings and security assessments. Read MoreLOCAL N LEKKA 6 min readExplore LOCAL N LEKKA at Raffaele D’Amato Jewellers with master designer Michél Nunes showcasing stunning handcrafted art. Read MoreGOLF @KINGSWOOD 3 min readJoin the excitement of golf at Kingswood, where competitions like the King of Ages bring players together for fun. Read MoreEVENTS @KINGSWOOD 3 min readExplore the exciting events at Kingswood, including a Valentine’s writing competition and a successful Potjiekos cook-off. Read MoreGOLF COURSE 4 min readDiscover how climate affects golf course management and learn insights from Kingswood greenkeeper Ivan van Heerden. Read MoreBuild@ KINGSWOOD 3 min readDiscover how to build at Kingswood with improvements to road safety and new community facilities enhancing resident life. Read MoreSecuritys all systems go 5 min readExplore the latest advancements in security at Kingswood with a digitised system that reduces human error and enhances safety. Read MoreMeet the team 6 min readGet to know the new Operations manager and other HOA insiders. Meet the team and learn about their unique backgrounds. Read MoreKingswood HOA Update: New Community Centre/Clubhouse 3 min readGet the latest Kingswood HOA update on the exciting construction of the new community centre and clubhouse facility. Read MoreTop reasons to buy Sectional Title properties 2 min readExplore how to buy Sectional Title properties and benefit from the rising market trends and increased value in South Africa. Read MoreWhat’s mine is yours … 3 min readExplore the concept of shared resources with ‘What’s mine is yours’ amidst economic challenges and environmental concerns. Read MoreWhat pet owners should keep in mind when moving to an estate 2 min readExplore the important aspects of having pets in estates. Know the rules and restrictions on pet ownership in different estates. Read MoreBitcoin adoption in South Cape 4 min readSpearheaded by a couple of ambitious initiatives, such as Bitcoin Ekasi, Bitcoin Ubuntu, and Bitcoin Witsand, the South Cape is set to develop into a pioneering hub for decentralised finance in Africa. 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 MoreEnhance Your Lifestyle & Home with Samsung’s A Better Life Campaign 2 min readExplore Samsung’s A Better Life campaign and discover how innovative products enhance daily convenience and enjoyment. 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 MoreAustralian Parent Visa offers a path to reunite families 4 min readExplore the Australian Parent Visa process and learn about the balance of family test for successful applications. Read MoreExperience luxury, security and energy-efficient living at The Somerset Lifestyle & Retirement Village. 3 min readDiscover the perfect retirement lifestyle at The Somerset with stunning views, convenient location, and a wide range of activities. Read MoreThe benefits of water smart plants 3 min readDiscover how water smart plants can transform your landscape in South Africa. Choose indigenous options for a sustainable future. Read MoreEstates of Play: BG Vol 2 issue 11 4 min readExplore the concept of Estates of Play and its relevance to personal space and autonomy in home life. Read MoreInterest Rate Cuts 2 min readDiscover the impact of interest rate cuts on the property market in South Africa. Lower rates make home loans more affordable, stimulating demand. 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 More5 Tips on getting kids interested in golf 3 min readThere are many benefits to children choosing golf as a sport. It helps develop their core muscles and improves their hand-eye co-ordination. It also gets them out and about in the sunshine and can be a boon for mental health. Read MoreA fresh look at farming 3 min readIt may surprise you to learn that the ingredients in your salad were probably harvested – not on the rolling fields you imagine – but at a rooftop or urban allotment. Read MoreHere’s how estate can mine the marvel of padel 4 min readWe speak to operators in the know about the game, the process, the costs, and the maintenance required to base your padel venture on informed decisions. Read MoreBe wise when buying cars online 4 min readDiscover the convenience of buying cars online from the comfort of your home. Learn about the risks to watch out for and how to avoid fraud. Read MoreNew Year, new beginnings 5 min readStart the New Year with a fresh perspective. Explore the concept of New Year’s resolutions and how to make the coming year better than the previous one. Read MoreLeasing out estate facilities 3 min readLeasing out estate facilities like country clubs and sporting facilities to external parties, whether it be for weddings, an equine event or a golfing championship, can be beneficial not just for the estate purse, but also for the marketing mileage that these events can generate. Read MoreOpen door, healthy boundaries 3 min readManaging a residential estate is different to managing most other businesses because your clients are part of your product, and what you do affects them – not only in a business way but also as humans and families. And what they do affects you, and your other clients. It’s quite a juggling act. Read MoreMount Edgecombe’s ‘Bunnies’ Programme Emphasises the Importance of Golf Etiquette: 3 min readLearn about Mount Edgecombe’s Bunnies Programme and how it helps beginners understand golf etiquette for a safe and enjoyable game. Read MoreMount Edgecombe Country Club and Driving Range Join Forces to Support Beginner Lady Golfers 3 min readDiscover the Ladies ‘Bunnies’ program at Mount Edgecombe Country Club, designed to introduce beginners to the world of golf in a fun and supportive way. 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 MoreSamsung Blue Tag Sale Deals 2 min readExplore the latest Samsung Blue Tag Sale Deals designed to enhance your home’s functionality and entertainment experience. Read MoreSimbithi Eco-Estate Announces Groundbreaking Sports Complex Development 2 min readUncover the hidden gem of Simbithi Eco-Estate. The newly built sports complex offers a range of facilities including a lap pool, tennis courts, and more. Read MoreWAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE 4 min readDiscover the secrets of growing great coffee at low altitudes. Uncover the truth about coffee prices and the reality for coffee farmers worldwide. Read MoreKINGSWOOD wildlife 4 min readDiscover the rare and intriguing black springbok spotted in Kingswood wildlife. Learn about this exceptionally uncommon genetic variation. Read MoreLOCAL N lekka 5 min readMeet Kobus Watson, the farmer-turned-businessman behind Watsons Meat. Learn how his passion for the land fuels his success in the meat industry. Read MoreGOLF @KINGSWOOD 3 min readStay informed about the happenings at Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO). Find out about the new Men’s Club Captain, upcoming competitions, and fundraisers for a good cause. Read MoreGood governance is the BACKBONE of a successful community 3 min readExplore the significance of governance in community associations. Learn how effective governance practices can maintain harmony, transparency, and conflict resolution in residential communities. Read MoreGOLF COURSE update 4 min readStay up to date with the latest golf course updates at Kingswood Golf Estate. Discover how the team’s dedication and programs have made a difference. Read MoreBuild@ KINGSWOOD 3 min readDiscover the latest updates on construction and building activities in Kingswood Golf Estate. Find out how the community is experiencing a slower pace and less commotion. Read MoreSecurity on track 3 min readLearn about the top-notch security at Kingswood Golf Estate in South Africa. Meet the dedicated team working to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. 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 MoreCharity begins at home with the Kingswood 2 min readDiscover how the Kingswood Ladies’ golf team helped raise funds for charities in 2024. Read about their special events and the impact they made. Read MoreA magical festive evening at Kingswood Golf Estate 2 min readExperience the magic of community living at Kingswood Golf Estate. Join us for an enchanting evening of music, laughter, and camaraderie. Read MoreGet More This Summer with Samsung’s Home Appliance Buy & Get Promotion 2 min readUpgrade your home with Samsung’s innovative home appliances. Experience advanced performance, flexibility, durability, and efficiency. Read MoreGolf estates create opportunities for women golfers 3 min readExplore how golf estates are changing the game for women golfers, offering convenience, community, and camaraderie. Read MoreGolfing residential estates host ladies ‘Bunnies’ programme 3 min readDiscover the ‘Bunnies’ programme for beginner lady golfers in South Africa. Get started with golf in a supportive and fun environment. 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 More5 Key Considerations for Buying Property in an HOA or BC 3 min readLearn about the important factors to consider when buying property in an HOA or BC. Don’t miss these key considerations for a smooth home buying process. 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 MoreBuilding well for living well 4 min readAchieve a healthier lifestyle with the help of the WELL Building Standard. Find out how this system promotes fresh fruit, physical activity, and more. Read MoreGolf Estates 3 min readDiscover how the pandemic changed the way we work and live. Learn about the unexpected benefits and challenges faced by different industries. Read MoreBreaking the grass ceiling – Inspiring women in golf 4 min readExperience the passion and friendship of women’s golf in KwaZulu-Natal. Join the celebration and be inspired to play this iconic sport. Read MorePezula Golf Estate – Enduring value 2 min readDiscover the luxurious Pezula Golf Estate and its latest upgrade, the renovated Pool House with a brand-new gym exclusively for residents. Read More30 african nation featured in the global network readiness Index 2024 4 min readExplore the 2024 Network Readiness Index (NRI) report, ranking Mauritius as the top African nation in ICT access and use. 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 MorePezula Golf Estate – Nestled in Knysna < 1 min readIntroducing Pezula Golf Estate – where opulence meets eco-consciousness on the stunning Cape Coast. 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 MoreZimbali Estate 4 min readZimbali Estate’s vision of being ‘the most authentic and sustainable lifestyle estate in the world’ is far from a dream — it’s a reality in progress. 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 MoreCopperleaf Golf and Country Estate sanctuary of luxury and leisure 3 min readCopperleaf boasts a meticulously designed 10.2-kilometre mountain-biking and running trail, crafted to showcase the estate’s scenic allure. This trail features two interconnected sections, each offering a distinct adventure. Read MoreEstate Living shines the spotlight on general wealth in the estate community 2 min readIn our spotlight, we take an in-depth look at Zimbali Estate, where their long-term approach to generational wealth is reshaping how we think about property investment. Read MoreWelgevonden Estate, Stellenbosch – a Residential Oasis 3 min readWelgevonden Estate in Stellenbosch undoubtedly holds a prime position. It has a countryside tranquillity with scenic views of the Boland mountains, and easy access to everything the vibrant town of Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands region have to offer. Read MorePezula Golf Estate a culinary destination 3 min readPezula Golf Estate offers more than just world-class golfing. It has become a culinary haven, catering to both casual diners and those seeking a refined dining experience. 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 MoreRetire with like-minded people 3 min readImagine a retirement community of like-minded people – of artists, academics, birders, mountain bikers, anglers or retired nurses. It’s possible. Read MoreBringing the ‘blue zone’ home 3 min readIt’s a shade that inspires tranquillity in the psyche, while communicating trustworthiness in business – which is why so many companies select it for their marketing collateral. but what does ‘blue’ mean when it comes to health and longevity? 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 MorePaul and Virginia 4 min readThey say truth is stranger than fiction, and we all know that facts have a way of inspiring fiction. But, sometimes, fiction has a way of superseding fact, and nowhere is this more evident than in Mauritius, where you will find monuments to famous people who never actually lived. But, hey, why should we let facts get in the way of a good story? 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 MoreCannabis in Sectional Title schemes 3 min readSince May, when the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (CPPA) was finally signed into law, there has been a new urgency to resolve questions about where cannabis can be smoked and grown within Sectional Title complexes and other community housing schemes. Read MoreUnderstanding estate rules 3 min readChoosing the right community for your lifestyle can be a daunting task, especially if you’re navigating these waters for the first time Read MoreTop 5 Questions Every Investor Should Ask Before Buying a Home in an HOA 3 min readWhen considering an investment in a home within a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), it’s essential to dig deeper than just the curb appeal and amenities. Read MoreExciting Launch: Ten New Luxury Life Right Condos 2 min readWe are thrilled to announce a significant addition to The Somerset Lifestyle and Retirement Village family. This September, we are unveiling our vision of ten new luxury Life Right upmarket condos Read MoreIs a smart city a healthy city 3 min readWhile developers of smart cities claim that they are healthier than non-smart cities, do they really address the issue that cities – regardless of their IQ – are unhealthy? Or are they just applying a metaphorical Band-Aid? 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 More5 Countries to visit in 2024 where the Rand is strong 2 min readGoing abroad is never an easy exercise for South Africans. Aside from visa requirements, we are also forced to make purchases with one of the world’s most volatile and weakest currencies. Read MoreExploring South Africa’s Two-Pot Retirement System 3 min readSouth Africa is set to introduce a two-pot retirement savings system designed to preserve and safeguard pension savings but there are doubts about whether it can work 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 MoreA Big Hand for the Spirits by Jennifer Stern 2 min readA Big Hand for the Spirits is an absorbing rollercoaster ride from the shady drug scene in Cape Town to the multicultural people and attractions of southern Africa. 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 MoreMaintenance critical as Sectional Title insurance costs rocket 3 min read Sectional Title (ST) owners are experiencing insurance premium shocks this year as insurance companies and re-insurers rethink the risks associated with building insurance. Read MoreThere’s a new security expert on KINGSWOOD GOLF ESTATE 2 min readPieter van der Walt has been appointed as on-site security manager for Fidelity at KGE – and a quick look at his mission and vision is indicative of the seriousness with which he tackles this task. Read MoreYoung angler’s remarkable catch: a tale of triumph and release 2 min readIt was a normal, sunny day in Kingswood, the kind that invites adventure and the thrill of discovery. Young Marcel and his father, Heinrich, decided to spend their afternoon fishing at the dam just below their house, near the sixth tee box. Read MoreA new feature in theKingswood BUZZard 2 min readAt Kingswood Golf Estate, we believe that a strong, connected community is the cornerstone of a vibrant and fulfilling neighbourhood experience. Read MoreBuild @Kingswood 3 min readIn the December 2023 edition of The BUZZard, we introduced readers to Kingswood’s new Security Coordinator, due to take up this permanent HOA position in January 2024. Read MoreWhen it comes to security, we’re on budget and ahead of schedule 3 min readThe BUZZard chatted to Kingswood trustee and chair of the Security Committee, Fielies Nieuwoudt, who was happy to report on the timeous progress of all operations set to be completed during the third quarter of 2024. Read MoreMeet the new trustee 4 min readThe latest arrival among Kingswood’s trustees (Jonathan Witts-Hewinson, Tony Jacobsen and Fielies Nieuwoudt) is former farmer Pietman van Heerden, who took the proverbial baton from outgoing trustee Edmund Franklin after the KGE Annual General Meeting on 24 June. 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 MoreEstate Living Durban Property Development, Management, & Investment Event < 1 min readThis premier event was packed with relevant and interesting content that captivated both developer delegates and sponsors alike. Read MoreJOHN COLLIER ANNUAL SURVEY 5 min readThe results of the 17th John Collier Annual Survey on environmental compliance, social responsibility and good governance (ESG) for South African golf courses have been released by John Collier Golf, and the tale of the tape shows Elements Private Golf Reserve as the winner of this year’s top award Read MoreRewilding as a strategy for economic sustainability 4 min readThat’s what colonialism was all about — but in a slightly nastier way. I’m thinking specifically of Britain. They ‘acquired’ a lot of ‘undeveloped’ land, and then set about remodeling it for their purposes. 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 MoreMaking change work 3 min readWhether you’re moving down the road, semigrating to the coast, or upping sticks and making a new life in a new country, change can be scary. It’s exciting, and full of possibility, but it’s not without its risks. Read MoreCan sectional title trustees take resolutions via whatsapp? 4 min readFor trustees of sectional title schemes, this raises the question: Can trustee resolutions be validly taken via WhatsApp? The answer lies in understanding the legal framework provided by the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act of 2011 (STSMA), its regulations, and the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act of 2002 (ECT Act). 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 MoreOpen a view to new possibilities with a folding fabric roof < 1 min readUser-friendly features, practical touches and advanced technological innovations abound in the Defender, including a practical Folding Fabric Roof 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 MorePecanwood leads the way in mitigating risk from eutrophic waters 4 min readWe are inundated by bad news stories about deteriorating water quality. Recent events in the Vaal River have shown us that aquatic ecosystems can be rapidly overwhelmed by floating weeds caused by uncontrolled flow of sewage effluent into rivers. Read MoreHow to stay on top of your taxes 3 min readMany of us are guilty of leaving tax filing to the last minute. But there are plenty of easy habits you can adopt that will help you streamline the admin that comes with filing your tax return. Read MoreJuly Savings Month – what did you achieve? 2 min readSouth Africans are notoriously bad at saving money but the annual National Savings Month is a great opportunity to get your kids involved in some good financial habits which can set them up for life! Read MoreEnd of year holiday planning 3 min readHaving the right travel information at your fingertips can greatly enhance your holiday experience – whether exploring local destinations or those outside of South Africa. Read MoreMauritius: South Africa’s Rising Star for Offshore Property Investment 3 min readMore and more South Africans are realising the growing value of offshore property investment. Whether it’s purchasing their forever-home as they emigrate Read MoreEstate Living Partners with Private Property 2 min readEstate Living Announces Exciting New Partnership with Private Property – This collaboration promises to elevate convenience for house hunters and investors, providing comprehensive information for everyone invested in estate living. Read MoreThe Best of Knysna & Plett < 1 min readReaders’ Choice Awards is about identifying and celebrating the very best that Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and surrounds has to offer. 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 MoreEmpower Your Business with Vodacom 4U and Vodacom Business Products 2 min readCollaborating with Vodacom Business Products, we present a comprehensive suite of services meticulously crafted to streamline your operations and propel your business towards unparalleled success. Read MoreUnleashing the Power of Connectivity with Vodacom Fibre at Chatz Connect 2 min readVodacom Fibre, available through Chatz Connect, stands out as a premier choice for those seeking robust and lightning-fast internet services. Read MoreEXCLUSIVE commercial plots of land for sale in Cascavelle 3 min readSeventeen exclusive plots of land are available for sale in Cascavelle, allowing you to enjoy comprehensive range of services and facilities available within Medine’s Smart City. Read MoreHow to create a happy estate 3 min readCreating a happy estate community is essential. Happy residents enhance the estate’s reputation creating greater demand for homes which pushes up property values. 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 MoreGolf in paradise 3 min readWhether you’re planning on moving to Mauritius, or just taking a well-earned break on this lovely island, you definitely will not want to leave your golf clubs behind. There’s more to this idyllic tropical paradise than pretty beaches, warm, crystal-clear water and coconut palms. Read MoreLedvance wins prestigious german innovation award 2024 for everloop linear indiviled 2 min readLEDVANCE, one of global leader in innovative lighting solutions, is excited to announce that it has been honored with the German Innovation Award 2024. 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 MoreSamsung South Africa’s Latest Screen Line-up Unboxed, Bringing a New Era of Samsung AI TV 5 min readSamsung South Africa unveiled its 2024 TV and sound device line-up at the local Unbox & Discover event which took place at Samsung Experience Store, Design Quarter, Johannesburg, showcasing the latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K, OLED TVs and sound devices. Read More4 Gen Z travel trends that are reshaping the tourism industry 3 min readGeneration Z-ers are growing up and coming into their own. For the travel and tourism industry, this emerging generation represents immense potential. Read MoreWind down into muted tranquillity 2 min readWhile the zeitgeist is said to be the cultural climate of an era, colour has an uncanny ability to reflect how people think and feel, and showcase climatic conditions. 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 MoreReady, set, host! Easy tips to make your home guest-ready 2 min readPreparing your home for guests can be both exciting and a bit stressful. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or having overnight visitors, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment is key. Read MoreThe single woman’s guide to buying their first home 4 min readAlmost 60% of South African homes are owned or co-owned by women, and women are increasingly buying property without a spouse or partner. 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 MoreThe rise of lifestyle estates for over 50s 4 min readNot so long ago, turning 50 was regarded as the first stride on the slippery slope towards retirement, but nowadays many see it as a passport to freedom as youthful 50-somethings take advantage of better health, greater financial stability and abundant energy to do the things they had no time for when they were raising children and working. 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 More4 Simple ways to keep weight down over winter 3 min readWinter is the perfect time for a break and embrace comfort dishes like stews. While we deserve it, winter weight gain can be a problem. Read MoreFive of the best winter holiday destinations 3 min readA list of the best holiday destinations for South Africans keen to get away in winter 2023. As winter looms, many South Africans start thinking of spending the July school holidays in warmer climates. 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 MoreArtificially yours 4 min readArtificial intelligence – real stupidity, really creepy. Or really clever, really great? Depends on how you look at it. And how you use it. 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 MoreConflict resolution on estates 3 min readOne of the biggest selling points of residential estates is that they are removed from the stresses of the ‘world beyond the wall’. So we need to guard carefully against conflict arising within our communities – and we need to deal creatively with any tensions between residents, and between residents and management. Read More7 Exceptional residential estates to look out for in 2024 4 min readWhen it comes to buying a home, personal choice shapes the decision-making process. Estate Living’s CEO, Louise Martin, handpicked these luxury estates to showcase a spectrum of options that provide distinct property, Lifestyle, and environment options catering to families, retirees, and investors. 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 MoreCSOS Updates & Levy Tips with Chief Ombud & Estate Living CEO < 1 min readDive into the latest insights with Louise Martin, CEO of Estate Living, and Thembelihle Mbatha, ( Acting ) Chief Ombud from CSOS, as they unpack the freshest updates on CSOS’s mandate and the crucial details on levy collections. Read More16 Steps to Understanding Community Schemes and Estate Living in South Africa 5 min readLouise Martin, CEO of Estate Living, aptly states: ‘Living in a community scheme can foster a sense of belonging and shared responsibility, enhancing the quality of life for all residents.’ Read MoreUnderstanding CSOS: A guide for homeowners and property managers 3 min readEstate Living was delighted to meet with the Acting Chief Ombud of the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS), Thembelihle Mbatha, to spend some time discussing the key issues that CSOS is focusing on right now. 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 MoreShould you take your car abroad? 3 min readMany people end up selling their vehicle way below what it’s worth just to get rid of it before moving abroad, thinking it’s too much hassle to ship it over. 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 MoreThree ways an estate manager can improve relationships with the local municipality 3 min readAs your estate’s most important external stakeholder the local municipality holds huge sway, so developing and maintaining good relationships with them is imperative. Read MoreEssential questions to ask before buying into an estate 2 min readBefore purchasing a home in any community housing scheme that is governed by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA), prospective buyers must make sure they understand all the rules and regulations as well as the financial implications of their decision. Read MoreEmpowering Communities 2 min readIn the intricate landscape of communal housing development, effective infrastructure management serves as the bedrock of resilience. Read MoreLocal N lekka 4 min readNew Kingswood resident Dr Dané van den Berg is a long-time George local who recently returned to the town where her parents and grandparents still live, and where she now shares her extensive healthcare experience with patients young and old. Read MoreFour tips to safeguard your estate from vandalism 2 min readPicture this: a pristine neighbourhood, its streets lined with elegant homes and lush greenery, suddenly marred by graffiti scrawled across walls, shattered windows, and defaced public spaces. Read MoreKINGSWOOD’S BIRDERS 4 min readThis interview with legendary birding expert, educator and author Peter Ginn is complemented by input from resident wildlife fundi Adrie Conradie – enjoy the flight! Read MoreMastering the Rental Journey 2 min readAs the dynamics of property ownership evolve, the surge in demand for rental accommodations prompts both tenants and homeowners to tread the rental path with utmost care and thoroughness. Read MoreGOLF @KINGSWOOD 5 min readWhen perusing weekly newsletters disseminated by the able team at Kingswood Golf Operations, it’s clear that there truly is an event included in the monthly lineup for every skills level and preference. Read MoreGOLF COURSE update 4 min readA brief sit-down with Kingswood greenkeeper Ivan van Heerden is of the essence when wanting to know how it’s really going on the golf course. Read MoreBuild@ KINGWOOD 4 min readThe Kingswood Estate plant list has been meticulously curated to pinpoint precisely what thrives in Kingswood gardens. Read MoreMeet the team 3 min readJolene Smit joined the Kingswood HOA fray in April, so here’s a nutshell introduction to this able lady responsible for keeping good relations all round. Read MoreSECURITY PLAN on track 3 min readThe BUZZard was again fortunate to score an audience with Willem Scholtz on matters related to the grand security plan currently being rolled out at Kingswood Golf Estate. Read MoreKingswood Community Centre/Clubhouse Project celebrated in street-party style and with OFFICIAL APLOMB 4 min readAfter nearly two decades of envisioning such a facility, the Kingswood Community Centre/Clubhouse (CC/C) Project is now a reality. Read MoreKnow the law when procuring vendors for your residential scheme 3 min readTo protect your financial interests and your investment, you’ve volunteered to be chairman of your body corporate or homeowners’ association. As the person in charge, you’re now navigating things like cleaning, greening, security and a host of other issues. When it comes to handling the vendor procurement process, understanding the law will help you avoid any pitfalls. Read MoreHow to start a career in estate management 3 min readWith 3,000 Homeowners Associations in South Africa, 56 000 Sectional Title Schemes and 1.9 million homes established in organised communities, there are many opportunities to find work in the property and estate management sector. Read More3 Simple ways we can recycle more and send less to landfill 3 min readProbably one of the most difficult and time-consuming issues facing estate managers and residents of estates is waste management. It’s so easy to throw items and food away in the general waste bin and forget about it. Read MoreWhat are the costs involved in buying or selling a property? 2 min readBe fully aware of all the costs involved when buying or selling a property. We asked real estate partners at the Woodland Hills Wildlife Estate in Bloemfontein to share some expertise on the purchase costs – Apart from the purchase price of the property, buyers will also be responsible for the following costs: Read MoreTips for buying a first home or a new home for the self-employed 3 min readAt Estate Living one of us is in the process of finding our first home, and the other, a new home – all within an estate, naturally! Read MoreFive ways you can boost tourist on your estate 3 min readThere is no denying tourism is big business in South Africa. Pre pandemic figures show that the country generated more than R130 billion from tourism each year, which directly contributed to nearly 3% of our GDP. 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 MoreFour things you never knew an app could do for your residential estate 3 min readMost residential estates in South Africa today have invested in high-tech security solutions to make sure that they can offer residents much-needed peace of mind. However, when it comes to maximising the benefits of app technology, South Africa is still somewhat lagging behind. Read MoreFamily Community Living – Closing the Gap 3 min readThese days your age is not as relevant as your lifestyle, and the concept of retirement estates is changing to accommodate changing needs. Read MoreFinancial reserve planning for estates 4 min readThe world is changing faster than any of us can comprehend. So how can homeowners associations and estate managers plan for the future? And what is reserve funding, anyway? Read MoreEstates of Play – Final Part 3 min readAside from the granular detail, and as I have said before, the overarching role for me, for an HOA, has always been as an asset manager. 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 MoreSolo studios 2024 crowns Riebeek Valley as art and culture hub 2 min readGet ready for a weekend of artistic immersion and cultural celebration at Solo Studios 2024, lighting up Riebeek Kasteel on Women’s Day weekend, from Friday, 9th to Sunday, 11th August. In its eighth year, this intimate art encounter promises an array of delights, set against the stunning backdrop of the Riebeek Valley, just a stone’s throw away from Cape Town. 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 MorePick n Pay Wine & Food Festival 2 min readMake the most of the sunny autumn weather and taste some of South Africa’s finest wines with delicious food at the Pick n Pay Wine & Food Festival this April. Read MoreChoosing the right sectional title insurance 3 min readRight now, there are about 66 000 residential and commercial sectional title schemes registered in South Africa. However, that number is expected to increase exponentially in the next couple of years as our cities continue to become increasingly built up to meet growing demand. Read More5 Tips to cut spend in your home 3 min readWinter can be a depressing time of the year as we often must face cold temperatures and rising costs as we try to keep our homes. This year is going to be particularly tough as South Africa and most of the rest of the world endures a cost-of-living crisis, due in part to the conflict in Ukraine. 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 MorePreparing your estate for winter storms 3 min readInfrastructure management is a key part of any communal housing development and stormwater planning forms part of this. 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 MoreCape Town In World’s Top 5 Second Home Hotspots 5 min readGlobal searches for second home purchases hit an all-time high in the summer of 2020, however since the pandemic, there’s been a significant uplift in the number of people purchasing a second property – either in the country they’re already living in, or further afield. Read MoreEstate Living Property Development, Management and Investment Forum annual regional Events are a GO! < 1 min readThe theme of this year’s event is: Generation Z – Your new buyers are here. Do you know what they want?’ Gen Z are commonly referred to as the first fully ‘digitally native’ generation. 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 MoreCommunity Scheme living has become first choice for SA home buyers 3 min readCommunity Scheme sales now comprise more than half of all property sales in South Africa, with price growth for this type of asset exceeding that of freehold properties for the first time in two decades. 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 MoreDealing with parking issues 3 min readHaving more vehicles than available parking space on communal living grounds is the norm worldwide, and this dearth invariably creates challenges for estate management. The problem is exacerbated when residents ignore the rules in place by parking on common property or using visitors’ bays. Read MoreTo have and to hold – ‘life right’ explained 4 min readBuying property is a big decision at the best of times, but when you’re buying into a retirement scheme, there are other issues to take into account. 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 MoreEstates of Play – Part 3 3 min readWith the competition in the market, between new developments and existing estates, coupled with an ever-shrinking pool of investors, the question to be addressed, is should an estate be creating its ‘sense of community’ around the golf course, or the entire brand? Read MoreGrowth 2 min readWelcome to the March 2024 edition of Estate Living magazine, where we delve into the world of community living. 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 MoreEfficient Delivery Solutions for Business Owners 3 min readWe understand that delivering products to customers efficiently and on time is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Read MoreThe West 3 min readLocated in the heart of The West of the island, the smart city of the Medine Group captivates with the beauty of its surroundings Read MoreYou have mail 3 min readI remember the days of taking my mini grey postbox key, looking for my postbox number among all the little labelled blue boxes neatly lined up in the basement parking of the local mall, and being exceptionally excited to receive a slip telling me that there was something for me to collect in the post office. What could it be? 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 MoreSquaring is Caring 9 min readBoredom is a killer. Ask any preschool teacher or any retirement facility manager and they’ll tell you that the worst thing they can do is let their charges get bored. 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 MoreTransforming green waste into Gold 4 min readThese heaps of garbage at the corners of the stone blocks, these tumbrils of mire jolting through the streets at night, these horrid scavengers’ carts, these fetid streams of subterranean slime which the pavement hides from you, do you know what all this is? 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 MorePezula Golf Estate – The Cape Coast’s Best Address 3 min readPezula Golf Estate – The course offers spectacular views, undulating greens and a variety of holes that provide a challenging round for golfers of all skill levels. Read MoreHow does South African politics shape real estate? 2 min readIt’s hard to think of a time when politics didn’t influence land and how people lived on it in South Africa. People were forced to travel around the country to find adequate grazing land, or they moved around to find safety from aggression. 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 MoreThe Reality of Conventional Farming vs Biological Farming 3 min readWhy do diverse farming models exist, and why do they not uniformly succeed across all regions? This inquiry delves into the fundamental principles guiding agricultural practices. Read MoreNational Betterball Championship Competition – 1 Mar – 2 Sep 2024 2 min readPut simply – it is the best event ever created for the average club golfer. Read More5 Ways to reduce your food waste 3 min readIn South Africa we waste around 10 million tonnes of food every year according to WWF. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has valued this lost at R61.5 billion! Read MoreEstates of Play: PART 2 4 min readWe continue our discussion with Louise Martin – CEO of Estate Living. Read MoreAirMobile by Afrihost 3 min readAirMobile is an MVNO – a wireless and virtual network operator with which you can have a registered number, buy airtime, make calls etc. 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 MoreEstates of Play – Part 1 3 min readTo date, in this discussion series, we have looked at some of the historical factors that sparked the rapid rise in the numbers of golf estates being developed. Read MoreThe Discount Dilemma: Part 3 4 min readTackling these types of challenges, and finding suitable solutions requires good business intel, which goes well beyond the number of rounds played per annum, in order to generate better revenue yields from each round played. Read MoreEstate Living Expands Market Dominance with Estate Life Publishing Acquisition 2 min readEstate Living – South Africa’s foremost authority on community schemes media and marketing, from new development financing and community management to information for investors and homeowners – proudly announces the strategic acquisition of Estate Life Publishing (Pty) Ltd., effective January 2024. Read MoreDemystifying the CSOS levy 3 min readThe Community Schemes Ombud Service’s job is to foster harmonious living within community schemes and resolve disputes but there is still much confusion around how the CSOS levy works Read MoreLook before you leap into renting 3 min readWith many property buying decisions having been delayed by rising interest rates over the past two years, the number of prospective tenants has, of course, increased, and thus also the competition for rental homes, but this does not mean that tenants should be any less thorough when checking out a property or the terms of a lease. Read MoreSungrow Introduces Unprecedented Security for Prestigious South African Estates 2 min readIn an era where safety takes precedence, Sungrow’s power optimizer technology stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of South African households. Read MoreCan your children become victims of gaming fraud? 3 min readThe global video game industry is thriving, but so too are video game scams. An increasing concern is how children are becoming targets of scammers while they’re innocently playing games and interacting with people online. Read MoreWhat do you need to know before downsizing your home? 3 min readA big home has its advantages, but what happens if that space becomes a burden. Perhaps the children have flown the nest, or you find yourself alone after a divorce? Perhaps you’re travelling more than you used to and are hardly at home. Read MoreChoosing a residential estate 3 min readThere are so many fabulous residential estates from which to choose that you can be forgiven for feeling a tad overwhelmed. But, don’t be intimidated by the cornucopia of choice. Many of them will suit your needs, but some may be just perfect for you. It’s worth doing your homework. Read MoreEvergreen Lifestyle 3 min readWe’re all living longer, thanks to healthier lifestyles and advances in modern medicine. Average life expectancy has risen to 73 years in 2023, from 66 years in 2000, and it is predicted that the global population of people aged 60 years and over, will increase from 1 billion in 2020 to 1.4 billion by 2030. 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 MoreA New Era of Transport and Business Innovation 2 min readIn the past few years, the sharing economy has emerged as a transformative force, particularly in the transport sector. This paradigm shift towards utilizing shared resources—like trucks and bakkies—is not just a trend but a strategic approach to achieving economic efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability. Read MoreThe Ideal Transport Solution for Interior Designers 2 min readAs an interior designer, you’re tasked with transforming spaces into works of art, often requiring the transport of furniture and other decor items from various suppliers to your client’s doorstep. Read MoreTHE GARDEN PERGOLA 5 min readPergola’ might be the one word more than any other in the language of gardening that gets us thinking of hot, quiet, lazy Mediterranean afternoons heavy with the scent of newly cut grass; afternoons filled with family and Chianti, fresh basil, and rich, ripe tomatoes anointed with the thickest, finest olive oil. Read MoreTop 10 home and decor trends for 2024 and how to bring them home 5 min readAs 2024 unfolds, the world of home and decor continues to witness dynamic shifts, embracing innovative ideas that redefine the way we approach interior design. From sustainable living to the resurgence of classic styles, the trends of 2024 offer a diverse palette for homeowners to draw inspiration from. Read More4 Things that will influence your property value in 2024 2 min readEvery homeowner wants the best possible return when selling their property investment. Objectivity is often difficult though, because, unlike other investments, owners can have a financial and emotional stake in their property. Read MoreLifta SA is the exclusive distributor of the Stiltz Home Lift in Southern Africa. 2 min readStiltz started selling lifts in England in 2010 and since then has grown rapidly to become a key player in the Home Lift industry with markets in the USA, Germany, Australia, China, the Middle East, and of course South Africa. 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 MoreExpert Home Services Most in Demand in 2023 3 min readData from leading South African online home services marketplace, Kandua.com, shows that South Africans are staying put in their homes and making smart investments with the help of experts. 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 MoreFive top design and décor trends to look out for in 2024 3 min readWe live in a world where our homes and living spaces have transformed into sanctuaries of solace, where safety, self-soothing, vibrancy and personal expression are pride of place. As we prepare to step into 2024, this holistic approach to design is likely to continue – blending a harmonious balance between aesthetics and well-being in our homes. Read MoreThe solar energy boom comes to holiday homes across South Africa 2 min readAs South Africa’s rooftop solar capacity skyrocketed by *349% from March 2022 to June 2023, the country’s solar wave is now reaching popular holiday destinations as demand for integrating sustainable energy solutions into holiday homes grows, says Ross Mains-Sheard, Co-Founder and CEO of Versofy SOLAR. Read MoreSmoking in sectional title schemes 2 min readIn South Africa, smoking tobacco products is governed and regulated by the Tobacco Products Control Act (TBCA), which regulates smoking in public places, among other functions, and is defined as “any indoor, enclosed or partially enclosed area which is open to the public”. Read MoreFirst buyers take ownership at KZN South Coast’s exciting new eco-estate development 3 min readReal estate on the KZN South Coast holds major potential for keen investors looking for a quality coastal property at unbeatable value for money. This is fast being realised as local and international buyers are investing in a number of catalytic property developments in the region. Read MoreDouble digit price growth in Western Capes Coastal Towns 3 min readA surge in semigration since the pandemic has bolstered the coastal market, especially in the Western Cape’s where towns like Plett where homes like this stunning designer Signal Hill Home are being snapped up by upcountry buyers. Read MoreNew Year, New Rules 2 min readOver the Summer Holidays you have likely spent more time in your sectional title property than you do when you’re working your nine to five; either because you had the opportunity to relax in your sectional title home or because you got to escape the city and stay in your seaside holiday apartment. 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 MoreTrim your budget to grow your savings 3 min readWhile you know you need to save, it may be a difficult concept to relate to while you are caught up in simply making ends meet each month. Saving can be compared to losing weight or getting fit. Although you start out with the best intentions, you tend to fall off the wagon, because the timelines or goals you set for yourself, are not realistic. Read MoreWhich Fibre speed is right for you 2 min readFibre is up to 25 times faster than the fastest ADSL. But which Fibre speed is right for you? Today we’ll give you a quick overview of what the different fibre line speeds are capable of. Read MoreDolly Parton joins Drumstuck on stage during their global tour 4 min readIt is rare for any theatre show to run for more than a few weeks in South Africa, let alone twice daily to full houses and consistent five star, rave reviews. But then again, Drumstruck is not just any theatre show. Billed as the most authentic and interactive African experience in Cape Town Read MoreHow best to work with CSOS 2 min readThe Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) is governed by the Community Schemes Ombud Service Act (CSOS Act), and the mandate of the CSOS is to regulate the conduct of parties in community schemes and to ensure their good governance. Read MoreFun Fibre Facts 2 min readThese days it is nearly impossible to live without an Internet connection. And there is a good reason for that! Almost everything we do is online-based or is linked to some online task. Read MoreTrend Group highlights what the office workspace is likely to look like in 2024 3 min readAs the global workforce continues to navigate the evolving landscape of work, Stacey-Lee Kruger, Head of Design at Trend Group, sheds light on the prominent trends anticipated to continue to shape office and workspace design in 2024. 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 MoreArt as a Catalyst for Change 4 min readSouth Africa, 15 Jan 2024 — Baz-Art, a trailblazing non-profit organization established in 2016, proudly announces the 8th edition of the International Public Art Festival (IPAF) set to transform the streets of Cape Town into a vibrant canvas of public art and community engagement. Read MoreSungrow’s Innovative Home Energy Solution System Redefines Luxury Living in 2024 2 min readAs we prepare to embrace the promising dawn of 2024, Sungrow, the trailblazer in smart energy solutions, is delighted to introduce its groundbreaking 3 Phase Home Energy Solution System. Read MoreCollective property buying 3 min readTraditionally, mortgage applicants consisted of two people (whether married or otherwise), but now banks are launching lending solutions that enable groups of people to buy a house together. Read MoreProperty stokvels 3 min readStokvels are pooled savings schemes with several members who are obliged to contribute a set amount on a monthly basis. Traditionally, each member receives a hearty payout based on a predetermined rotation. Read More“The Living Relay: Navigating Financial Independence and Generational Momentum” 2 min readIn the captivating reel of life, each frame captures a moment in our personal movie. From childhood innocence to the wisdom that accompanies age, life is an ever-evolving narrative. In this perpetual motion, we find ourselves navigating two distinctive but interconnected financial journeys: the pursuit of personal financial independence and the relay of assets across generations. Read MoreHow to Choose a Moving Company 3 min readWhen it comes to selecting the perfect moving company for your home or office relocation, you may find yourself facing numerous questions. Read MoreGetting Business Deliveries Right 2 min readLike any company, Zorora Sofas has experienced significant changes over the years, driven by advancements in technology, changing consumer preferences, and a growing emphasis on efficiency. Read MoreNew Year rituals for luck, love and laughter 6 min readWhile most of the serious New Year traditions are about effective practical strategies to ensure that you start the New Year with the best possible chances of health, happiness and success, there are some lovely traditions for bringing in some good old-fashioned luck. And some that are just silly, frivolous and fun. If you’re planning a New Year’s do for the estate, consider some of these (obviously, not all) and remember to play safe. Read MoreKINGSWOOD 2023 successes 4 min readThere’s a long list of achievements that Kingswood Golf Estate can be particularly proud of when looking back at the year that was. Read MoreLOCAL N lekka 3 min readWhen meeting Kingswood resident Anine van der Westhuizen, you would be forgiven for wishing you’d had a physical qualm she could check out and fix – such is the good energy flowing from this well-established George biokineticist. Read MoreGOLF @ KINGSWOOD 6 min readWhen perusing the lists of competitions and golf days and special events hosted by Kingswood Golf Operations over the last quarter, it’s clear that there have been way too many notable occasions for all to be included here. 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 MoreSamsung Announces Global Launch of Bespoke Jet™ AI, the World’s First UL Verified AI-Powered Cordless Stick Vacuum 3 min readSamsung Electronics Co., Ltd. recently announced the global launch of the Samsung Bespoke Jet™ AI, the company’s most powerful cordless stick vacuum yet with up to 280W of suction power, a self-emptying enhanced All-in-One Clean Station™ and artificial intelligence (AI)-based functionality. Read MoreGOLF 3 min readKingswood greenkeeper Ivan van Heerden provides an update on work done on the golf course of late, and plans for the year ahead. Read MoreMeet the team 2 min readThe most recent appointee in the security sector of HOA is Caron Manchest – a George lass born and bred, and never readier to tackle her role as Kingswood’s new Security Coordinator as soon as January dawns. Read MoreBuild@ KINGWOOD 4 min readThis new feature is speaking to buyers planning to build a new home at Kingswood, as well as residents wanting to renovate. Read MoreKINGSWOOD HOA 4 min readRegular readers of The BUZZard will remember the interview published in March of this year with KGE trustee Gerrit ‘Fielies’ Nieuwoudt – chairman of the estate’s subcommittee for risk and security. At the time, he elucidated the upgrades worth in excess of R20 million that would be attained over the next five years. Read MoreThings to consider when choosing the right Solar Installer 3 min readImagine that you decided to get an early start to your work week and finalise that proposal you’ve been working on only to discover that you are caught in load shedding. Frustrating, right? Read MoreSolana Energy and South32 uplifts KZN communities with six solar installations 3 min readSolana Energy collaborated with South32 to bring about the completion of six solar installations across KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). These installations brought immediate relief to various social impact organisations by providing clean and sustainable energy sources to aid the beneficiaries on their quest to make a significant difference in the lives of the people that they serve. Read MoreMake this your favourite place 3 min readAs we move closer to December and South Africa rushes towards it peak summer season, Mariah Carey, Boney M and Michael Bublé songs are drumming from every retail store and radio station. Read MoreSeamless Magic Moving 3 min readMoving can be an absolute nightmare, especially if, like me, you’re heading abroad. Thankfully, if you have HouseHoppers in your corner, you’re in for a stress-free and efficient experience. Read MoreWake up and Smell the Coffee 4 min readEVERYBODY KNOWS THAT COFFEE GROWS IN A SPECIFIC ‘COFFEE BELT’ BETWEEN THE TROPICS, AND THAT GOOD COFFEE GROWS AT THAT LATITUDE AT HIGH ALTITUDE, Well, sometimes what everybody knows is not necessarily the whole truth. Local coffee farmer Dylan Cumming thinks differently. Read MoreTrees for pots/containers 2 min readIt is best to start by selecting a pot large enough to fit the root ball of the size tree you are considering planting. Container size will eventually determine how large your tree can grow as it gives you the opportunity to manipulate how large the tree is able to grow. Read MoreElevating Luxury Living 2 min readSungrow’s cutting-edge smart energy solutions designed to seamlessly integrate with the upscale energy landscape of the country. Read MorePreparing homes for outdoor entertaining this festive season 2 min readNobody loves outdoor entertaining quite like South Africans — especially during December. Where the northern hemisphere festive season is a winter wonderland, we in the southern hemisphere are blessed with a hot, summery season of good times – swimming, braaiing and partying with friends and family. Read MoreSolar Panel Survey < 1 min readWith the majority of estates in South Africa either moving to solar or investigating their solar options, Estate Living is undertaking a solar survey to provide the market with a report as to the state of solar in estates across South Africa. Read MoreMyLnD™ Programme : Revolutionising Estate Planning 3 min readThis groundbreaking simulation, MyLnD™, emerges as a safeguard against the chaos that often follows an individual’s passing. Read MoreComposting in small spaces 4 min readWe tend to think of compost as a huge heap in an obscure corner of the garden – something that needs to be strenuously turned regularly, and that can generate enough heat to warm bathwater or possibly roast a chicken. Well, that is the traditional method, and it may well be the most biologically efficient way to compost, but there are much neater, smaller, more user-friendly options, some of which can even be used indoors. Read MoreThe Discount Dilemma – Part 2 5 min readIf there are actually no real differences in terms of quality, facilities, etc. between two adjacent golf clubs, then price might well be the only differentiator. However, in a marketing sense and if revenues are down, the first step should be to creatively package up the rounds, rather than engaging in a price war, and there are very good reasons for this. Read MoreWhat Steps can a Homeowner Take to Secure their Water? 4 min readThe daily news coverage contains a growing number of reports about failure of municipal water systems. Of increasing concern, we are hearing of major metros in crisis. Read MoreArt Unleashed 2 min readAs Baz-Art turns seven, the organisation proudly celebrates its rich history of artistry and community engagement by launching an Interactive Art Trail, featuring the most compelling works created over the past decade. This celebration is made possible with the support of Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) and Arte-Mea, who have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Read MoreColour is also a spectrum 5 min readYou’ve decided to bravely break away from purchasing a few cubic metres of ‘builder’s beige’ when it comes to painting or repainting. But, before you gaily decorate the frail care centre bright yellow because it’s cheerful, the restaurant red, because it increases appetite, and the spa blue, because it is said to be calming, be aware that it’s not that simple. 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 MoreHow a Private Bank can protect and grow your wealth 5 min readAmol Prabhu, CEO of South Africa and Market Head of Africa at Barclays Private Bank, explains the services the bank offers and how it supports influential individuals and global families in South 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 MoreFive amazing things in Mauritius 2 min readWe all know that Mauritius is a gorgeous tropical island paradise with a fantastic infrastructure and awesome standard of living, but it’s also a place of wonder and mystery. Here are five strange things you may not have known about the island. 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 MoreSimplify your life – space is freedom 6 min readLess is more, space is freedom, possessions weigh you down, clutter makes you sick. So tidy up. Decluttering is the new big thing, and a quick Google search will reveal a slew of best-selling books on the subject, all published in the last three years. So rush off and buy them all – you’re bound to find space for them. Read MoreEstates can benefit from cheaper solar finance 2 min readWith South Africa contending with frequent power outages and rising energy costs, many estate owners are actively seeking alternative energy solutions to sustain their operations. Among the available choices, rooftop solar has emerged as the favoured option. 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 MoreThe secrets to first-time buyer success 3 min readGreater Pretoria, Johannesburg, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal have the most new buyers applying for home loans, accounting for 80% of BetterBond first-time home loan applications in the past year, says Bradd Bendall, BetterBond Head of Sales. Read MoreSteenberg Farm celebrates ABALOBI’s prestigious nomination for the Earthshot Prize 3 min readLike with Steenberg, ABALOBI has resulted in many meaningful collaborations with small-scale fishing communities to reposition them in the value chain, rebuild their fisheries, and help develop more ethical food systems towards social and ecological sustainability. Read MoreInnovation to Protect Rivers and Users from Upstream Pollution 4 min readThe first category is plastic pollution. All modern products come with packaging, and all of this creates masses of landfills. Most packaging is plastic, and in South Africa, a lot of this ends up in rivers. We have some pioneering individuals who have been blazing the trail with innovative solutions. Read MoreWhat Measures Must be Taken to Prevent your Day Zero? 4 min readDay Zero scenario has many benefits beyond the mere convenience of having water, because it also boosts the confidence of any investor willing to buy real estate in a well-designed development. Read MoreWhat Steps can Durban South Coast Developers and Community Take to Secure Future Water Supply? 5 min readSouth Africa is facing a new reality. Major urban centres are under growing distress caused by failing water infrastructure. Two of our biggest water boards – Rand Water and Umgeni Water – are both intimately connected with this failure. Read MoreSolar financing solutions for residential estate HOA’s and Bodies Corporate < 1 min readJoin Estate Living and Jaltech Fund Management, as we discuss financing solutions for residential estate HOA’s and Bodies Corporate. Read More11 Tips to ensure your pool is safe 2 min readThe tragic accidental drowning of Jannie du Plessis’s one-year-old son last month highlights just how important safety around the pool is, especially during the holidays. Read More3 Things you need to know about buying land abroad 3 min readInvesting in offshore property has always been popular with South Africans seeking stability and alternative residency options. Read MoreTrees that will create shade < 1 min readOne of the most popular reasons for buying a large tree is the requirement for instant shade in the garden. Read More‘FROM THE FAIRWAYS’ – Part 3 5 min readIn this month’s issue of Estate Living, we conclude our discussion with Ryan Reid and Gerhard Van Rooyen at Fancourt. Read MoreStaycation Garden Route 4 min readThe Garden Route is one of the best tourist destinations in the world, and you are already here!. So – if you need a break (and we all do) – take one in your own back yard. It’s time for a fabulous staycation. Do some day trips, or take time out to really appreciate the great opportunities just down the road. Read MorePut your Estate Plan to the Test with Carrick Consult < 1 min readThis edition of Estate Livings ExpertInsight webinar series, we discuss Carrick Consult innovative programme that has launched to streamline estate planning and execution. The MyLnD™ Programme will give your estate plan a ‘dry run.’ Read More10 Ways to save on groceries 3 min readAs food prices rise globally, South Africa is unfortunately no exception to this. Despite the cost of the weekly food shop increasing, alongside electricity bills and interest rates, salaries are failing to keep up. Read MorePut your Estate Plan to the Test! 2 min readJoin Estate Living and Carrick Consult as we discuss an innovative programme that Carrick Consult has launched to streamline estate planning and execution. Read MoreHow to manage Halloween on a residential estate 3 min readCelebrating Halloween with trick or treating may be a relatively new concept in South Africa, but neighbourhoods in the US have been celebrating October 31st for decades. Part of Halloween’s charm is that it gives one, particularly children, the opportunity to dress up and canvas the neighbourhood looking for the infamous trick or treat. Read MoreHow do you ship unusual things abroad? 3 min readMany people ship furniture, pets and other necessities abroad. But what is the best way to ship bigger items like caravans and boats? And is it worth it? We unpack the best tips to help make moving abroad that little bit easier and more efficient. Read MoreCreate lasting connections at The Somerset 3 min readWestacre Property Group is proud to announce the launch of the next phase of 25 freehold properties in one of the Western Cape’s most sought-after-retirement villages located in the beautiful Somerset West, The Somerset Lifestyle and Retirement Village. Read More5 Ways to teach kids good money habits 2 min readYou may think that children don’t understand the intricacies that come with managing the household budget, but they understand more than you think. What’s more the way in which you treat, manage and view money is something that your children will copy by observing what you do. Read More‘FROM THE FAIRWAYS’ – Part 2 6 min readWe continue our discussion with Fancourt’s, Gerhard Van Rooyen, Head Golf Course Superintendent, and Ryan Reid, Director of Sports and Recreation, who now joins the discussion. 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 MoreIndependent Power Providers and Traders Survey < 1 min readEstate Living has been requested to assist with a survey for Independent Power Supplier. These suppliers will be changing the way we see and purchase power. Read MoreBenefits of trees for boosting property value < 1 min readAre you looking to boost your property value and enhance your quality of life? Here’s a tip that’s rooted in both beauty and investment: Planting large trees on your property. Read MoreBuying your first home 3 min readThere is nothing more exciting – or daunting – than buying your first home. It’s a rite of passage, and also a passport to financial, emotional, social and family security. There are so many advantages to home ownership, but it’s a big step, so it’s worth planning carefully. Read MoreBest practices and rules for swimming pools 3 min readEstate managers have a duty of care when it comes to swimming pool safety for residents. With the arrival of spring and temperatures warming up, it won’t be long before families and children living in housing estates and complexes start heading for the communal pools to cool down. Read MoreHow do capital protection products work? 3 min readCapital protection products can offer South African retail investors a secure way to safeguard their investments while enabling them the ability to participate in financial markets 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 MoreBenefits of trees as privacy hedges 2 min readAre you looking to elevate your property’s appeal and privacy simultaneously? Consider the incredible benefits of using trees as privacy hedges! Read MoreStrategic planning for HOAs 8 min readStrategic planning is about projecting where your association expects to be in five, 10 or 15 years – and how your association will get there. It also ensures that your association will remain financially sustainable, and be able to maintain its reserves Read MoreUnlocking the power of proxies in AGMs 3 min readIn the realm of sectional title living, annual general meetings (AGMs) serve a pivotal role in the decision-making process, offering a platform for residents to voice their opinions and influence the community’s direction. Read MoreUnderstanding VAT claims for Homeowner’s Associations in S.A 3 min readHomeowner’s Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in managing and maintaining shared spaces in residential communities. In South Africa, there are specific circumstances under which a HOA can claim Value Added Tax (VAT) on expenses. Read MoreExploring the practice of offering discounts on upfront payment of annual levies 2 min readIt’s possible to award discounts on levies for payment in advance but there are rules and limits to consider. It’s rare for households to pay for anything upfront, especially when it comes to a big expense that can be paid off month to month in the year. Read MorePlacing of statues on common property 3 min readStatues or sculptures can serve as powerful elements that shape the character and atmosphere of a place, making it memorable and meaningful to those who experience it. They add aesthetic beauty, cultural significance, emotional depth, and sometimes even practical functionality. Read More‘FROM THE FAIRWAYS’ – Part 1 6 min readJohn Cockayne has embarked on a series of discussions with various venues and commentators, to look at what the golf community, especially golf estates and resorts, can do to lessen the game’s impact on the environment, and mitigate the influence of extreme weather events, which, over the past few decades have gone from being occasional, to increasingly frequent occurrences. Read MoreTax emigration and expat tax 3 min readEmbarking on a journey to emigrate from South Africa is a life-changing decision, brimming with excitement, opportunities, and new horizons. Whether you’re seeking fresh career prospects, pursuing a new chapter in your life, or simply exploring the world, emigration represents a profound step towards a different future. Read MoreElevating Estate Living 3 min readOur reputation is second to none, we are renowned and respected for our expertise, passion for our craft, and commitment to outstanding customer service and after-sales support. Read MoreWhat are the pros and cons of joining Threads 3 min readMost of us are already on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and many other platforms. But as if that’s not enough there’s a new social media platform in town. 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 MoreThe pros and cons of investing in residential property in the most sought-after offshore locations 3 min readFor South African investors seeking to diversify their property portfolios, offshore residential investments in some of the most sought after locations, including Portugal, Mauritius, the United Kingdom (UK) and Spain, can offer a range of opportunities. 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 MoreCan estate managers or the HOA issue speeding fines to residents? 4 min readDiscover what authority estate managers and HOAs have over issuing speeding fines to ensure the safety of their community while upholding the law in South Africa. Read MoreThe Discount Dilemma – Part 1 3 min readWe had this discussion some years ago, but given that the ‘free ride’ in terms of the interest in golf as a result of the COVID pandemic has proven to be a bubble for many clubs, I thought it worth looking at again 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 MoreWhat are the pension options for residential estate staff? 4 min readResidential estate staff are the backbone of any well-functioning residential community. From security personnel to gardeners and maintenance workers, their contributions help to create an environment that residents can call home. Read MoreTake your power back with energy-efficient appliances 3 min readSouth Africa grapples with a persistent challenge that often dims its charm: loadshedding. As power outages continue to disrupt daily life, many are turning adversity into opportunity by rethinking their energy consumption habits and upgrading their homes and the contents within to become more energy efficient. Read MoreShot hole borer (PSHB) beetle takedown 3 min readA silent, subtle threat to biodiversity is spreading across the country, almost unnoticed. It’s hitting us in our gardens and our cities. It’s killing our trees, and it’s chomping its way across the country. Read MoreThe Welgevonden Estate revolution 4 min readWelgevonden Estate is a residential estate located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. It is a well-known and sought-after secure community situated in the picturesque Cape Winelands region, which is renowned for its vineyards, scenic beauty, and historic architecture. 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 MoreWhat are the various schemes available for retirement? 3 min read In recent years, the choices and options for purchasing in a retirement development have increased with many new estates and complexes coming on board, each offering very different options for retirees. It can be overwhelming, especially under the current economic circumstances, to figure out what suits you best and which is right for your pocket and your future. Read MoreBooks and Birds 6 min read‘Colour your World’ is the PNA pay-off line, and when meeting Kingswood resident Louis Fourie, proud owner of six branches of the well-established stationery brand twixt the Garden Route, Klein Karoo and Kimberley, it’s clear his world is colourful by design. When doing some brand stalking on PNA, one learns that there are over 100 independent, owner-managed stores nationwide. Read MoreDo you have to elect a chairperson in a body corporate? 2 min readSometimes, the management rules of a body corporate would dictate who the chairperson must be. In this regard, it may be an independent person, or the developer, or the developer’s representative(s). It may even have to be a trustee from a specific component of the scheme, for example, the residential or commercial component in a mixed-use development. Read MoreGeorge Leads the way 4 min readCountering crisis through good governance The Southern Cape capital of George is one of the country’s top semigration destinations, not least because of its well-run local government. Read MoreGolf @Kingswood 4 min readWhat has happened on the Kingswood course since we last spoke to Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) chief Liesel Niehaus, partner Mike Quinn and their team? ‘The mild weather between March and June allowed for much action on and off the course,’ says Liesel – and the report below bears witness to this claim Read MoreThe rain in George stays mainly on the course 2 min readThis here headline was inspired by the well-known ditty from My Fair Lady: ‘The rain in Spain stays mainly in the plain’. In this case, however, the lesson to be learned is less about elocution and all about dealing with whatever blows the weather in George deals those responsible for keeping the Kingswood course in shape. Read MoreMeet New Trustee 6 min readAs part of Kingswood AGM proceedings on 26 June, a new trustee was elected to serve alongside current office bearers Anthony Jacobsen, Jonathan Witts-Hewinson and Gerrit ‘Fielies’ Nieuwoudt. Edmund Franklin chatted to The BUZZard over coffee on a freezing Thursday morning Read MoreKIngswood HOA 3 min readAmong the many issues that take up the working day of Kingswood CEO Willem Jacobs and his team are three important projects in various stages of development and implementation 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 MoreShould you trade in your old phone for the iPhone 15? 3 min readPhone enthusiasts don’t have long to wait – every year Apple introduces the new iPhone (this time the iPhone 15) in September or October. The actual unveiling of the new device typically occurs in the month of September. Read MoreFlorida the ultimate investment destination 5 min readThe pursuit of the American Dream has captivated the aspirations of countless individuals worldwide, and the key to this, is the sought after Green Card, a symbol of permanent residency that opens doors to endless possibilities in the United States. Read MoreThe value of the EB-5 Investor Program 3 min readThrough the expertise of the American Dream and their partners, Pam Golding International and USA immigration attorneys Versfeld and Hugo LLC, your journey into Green Card status is taken to a new level. 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 MoreFive ways to leverage the power of online marketing 3 min readIn the ever-evolving world of real estate marketing, staying ahead of the game is crucial. The advent of social media has created exciting new avenues for property professionals to reach their target audience and create brand awareness online. 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 MoreFive top wedding trends for 2023/2024 3 min readIf you want to host weddings at your estate, you’ll need to have some bells and whistles to stand out from the crowd. Read MoreSought after suburbs in Mauritius 3 min readThe allure of azure seas and an island lifestyle has drawn many South Africans to our island neighbour, Mauritius, in recent years. Estate Living chatted to Natasha Lauderdale, a South African property professional, working for Pam Golding Mauritius as a Foreign Sales and Projects Consultant. Read MoreWill AI lead to a collaborative evolution or redundancy? 3 min readMany expect artificial intelligence to take over jobs, but AI is set to also boost the economy and if people adequately retrain and prepare they’re unlikely to lose their jobs. Read MoreWhat are the different solutions for renewable energy and how can they be financed? 3 min readDiscover the various funding mechanisms and options for financing the adoption of renewable energy technologies in South African households. Read MoreHow to win in a competitive UK rental market 3 min readThe rental property market for expats is very competitive in the United Kingdom. But finding the right rental property is possible if you follow these tips. 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 More5 Tips on passing the ‘Life in the UK Test’ 3 min readThe Life in the UK Test is an unavoidable exercise for many South African expats as it’s a necessary requirement for those who are applying for either British citizenship or settlement in the UK. 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 MoreThe importance of communities and facilities beyond a residential estate’s borders 3 min readDiscover the significance of communities and facilities beyond residential estates in South Africa 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 MoreGas Guidelines 3 min readMost of the gas used in South African homes is comprised of liquefied petroleum (a mixture of propane and butane). It is a simple chemical structure that allows for safe and clean burning. 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 MoreFLISP – Making homeownership a reality for lower income households 3 min readThe Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP) offers an amazing opportunity for qualifying individuals to own their first property. It’s unfortunate that the details and implications of FLISP are not commonly known, and that there are some misconceptions about its process and value. 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 MoreIs Mauritius still an affordable place for South Africans to relocate to or is just for the elite? 3 min readWith its enchanting landscapes, pleasant climate, and thriving economy, Mauritius has become an enticing destination for South Africans considering relocation. Read MoreHow to ensure that your management team is the right fit for elderly residents 3 min readGetting the recipe just right is vital to the success of the estate as balance must be found between intelligence, experience, social skills, and personality types, to build a team that is able to protect the estate and its assets, while connecting with the community and delivering a quality service that meets the needs of the homeowner. Read MoreHow to get the best bank account for your teenager 3 min readAs teenagers transition into young adulthood, it becomes essential for them to have a bank account that caters to their financial needs. A well-structured bank account not only allows teenagers to manage their money effectively but also helps them build responsible financial habits for the future. Read MoreEstate Living International Roadshow Mauritius, Cyprus, Portugal and the UK < 1 min readEstate Living successfully hosted a series of International Emigration and Investment events in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. 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 do you beat loneliness on a retirement estate? 3 min readRetirement is meant to be a time of relaxation, fulfilment, and new adventures. However, it can also bring about feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially as life undergoes significant changes. Read MoreHow to ensure you have fair rules and regulations 3 min readDuring a recent interview with the CEO of a Western Cape residential estate, our meeting was interrupted on three occasions: on her private line was the legal representative of one of the estate’s homeowners. Read MoreWhat options do buyers have when it comes to new developments? 3 min readAmid house prices falling, interest rates rising, increased financial pressure on the average SA consumer and lack of electricity supply causing national havoc, developers remain optimistic about the property market as many beautiful developments are currently underway or nearing completion across the country. Read MoreWhy has the Rand depreciated? 2 min readThe Rand has recently depreciated to its lowest levels and its events within our borders that are to blame. The Rand has always been erratic but recently it has depreciated so much that it’s caused concern among economists, policymakers and investors. Read MoreThe Devastating Effects of Pollution in our Rivers and Dams 4 min readThe year 2023 will undoubtedly be associated with the National Cholera Crisis. Triggered by the headline- grabbing news of multiple deaths in Hammanskraal, the story spread like wildfire as the media decided to follow it. Read MoreFrequently Shouted Questions 5 min readHasn’t this happened to all of us? We’ve walked into a store that sells telecommunications devices, armed with our credit card and the specials page from the newspaper, all set to purchase a device that we’re convinced will make our life easier. We’re met at the front of the store by a pimply-faced whippersnapper who rolls his eyes in boredom before we’ve asked a single question. He then tries to baffle us with science. He couldn’t care less about the customer, and by the end of the engagement you are enraged beyond reason. Read MoreMastering the art of effective communication with seniors 3 min readSix ways estate managers can effectively communicate with elderly residents. It is crucial that estate managers understand the diverse communication needs of everyone in their estate 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 MoreHow to plan a financially comfortable retirement 3 min readThere are many South Africans that can’t afford a comfortable retirement. There are many reasons for this but one of the things that people tend to do is dip into their retirement pots too early (especially when changing jobs) and fail to preserve their retirement savings. Read MoreComparing Mauritius and Seychelles 3 min readWith two beautiful islands just off our eastern coast, Mauritius and the Seychelles, we did a deep dive into how the two compare when it comes to access for South Africans, healthcare facilities and living costs. We also had a look at what expats are saying on forums about the negatives they were not expecting when they first moved. Read MoreIs your estate gender aware? 3 min readEvents to create awareness of the GLBTQ-community is celebrated in nearly every province annually, the most recent of these being last month’s Soweto Pride, which saw jubilant crowds wrapped in rainbow flags furthering its cause. Read MoreTshwane School for Business and Society partners with CAISA 2 min readThe University’s Tshwane School for Business and Society (TSB) has recently signed a license agreement and accreditation partnership with the Community Associations Institute (CAI) and the Community Associations Institute of South Africa NPC (CAISA). Read MoreTop 10 things to do before signing your Lease Agreement in a Residential Estate 3 min readOur residential estate environments provide some of the very best options for rentals, due to the security and lifestyle offerings. Read MoreExploring the finest cities in Cyprus for luxury homes 2 min readIn recent years, Cyprus has emerged as a sought-after destination for luxury real estate. From lavish beachfront villas to elegant apartments with breathtaking views, Cyprus offers an array of options for those seeking a sophisticated and opulent lifestyle. Read MoreInvest with 10X 2 min readSouth Africa is currently grappling with a severe cost-of-living crisis and 10X Investments, is taking proactive steps to support individuals in securing a lasting retirement income. We are excited to announce the launch of a new initiative, offering an exclusive opportunity to invest with no fees for six months. Read MoreInnovation in the Water Management Sector 5 min readWhen I served as a deputy governor on the World Water Council, and as executive director of the International Water Resource Association, I was given a privileged insider view of the global water sector. Read MoreThe PPRA vows to investigate and stamp out high accreditation fees 3 min read‘Accreditation fees’ that are charged by some well known estates have come under scrutiny by the PPRA and other oversight bodies in the property industry, like the CSOS, for being too exorbitant and thereby excluding most estate agents from trading in estates. Read MoreAre urban living aparthotels able to cater to digital nomads? 3 min readAparthotels are rejuvenating cities while meeting the needs of the upcoming generation. Stylish designs and clever use of space offer comfort in a fraction of the area of traditional babyboomer dream homes. Read MoreThe Jukskei River – Abused but Historically Relevant 5 min readWhen South Africa became a democracy in 1994, there was a high level of anticipation that a new dawn had begun. The first set of legislation that was passed was the National Water Act (NWA). Read MoreThe Road to Water Self-reliance 6 min read The daily news is now dominated by stories of both Eskom and water service failures across the country. The rate of failure is accelerating, exactly as predicted by me some years ago. Read MoreChoosing the right relocation specialist 3 min readIt’s imperative to select the right international relocation specialist to ensure a successful move abroad. Asking the right questions will enable you to choose a reliable and reputable company that can provide you with required services at a reasonable price. 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 MoreFour simple ways to make your estate more sustainable. 3 min readWays estate managers can make their estate more environmentally friendly. Estate managers have the unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the local environment and create a greener future for their residents. 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 More5 Ways of protecting yourself from Cyber-attacks while travelling 2 min readYou can take protective measures to ensure you are not a victim of cyber criminals while you are travelling abroad. Read MoreHow to become financially stronger 3 min readThere have been many interest rate hikes and now with the other costs increasing it’s difficult to keep budgets in check. Here we offer tips on how to make yourself financially resilient. Read MoreThe importance of an external marketing and communications strategy 3 min readEstate Living’s chief executive officer Louise Martin shares the importance of crafting an external communication strategy that showcases the value, facilities, services and environment of an estate. Read MoreDirecting an estate – how hard is it? 2 min readDirecting an estate may seem like a daunting task, but it can be done with the right mindset and preparation. 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 MoreRules and regulations 3 min readIf you are living in a residential estate, you probably know that there are a host of rules to which you have to adhere. Most of these you will find quite reasonable, and probably appreciate how they protect you from minor (and some major) nuisances. But you may find some a bit onerous so, if you are thinking of moving to, or buying into, an estate, make sure you know the rules before you sign on the dotted line. Read MorePractical thoughts on budget preparation 10 min readCommunity association managers are responsible for the preparation of an annual operating budget with the final approval coming from the association’s board of directors. The fact that the residents are also the owners creates unique budgeting issues because there is technically no income in a non-profit organisation Read MoreCentre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State 5 min readOver the last decade, we have witnessed some unusual environmental processes playing out in our daily lives. One of the highest-profile events has been the anomaly of flooding in major rivers and dams, while adjacent cities face water shortages. Another of these is the concept of the green drought. Read MoreThe Great Resignation movement 4 min readThe Great Resignation movement has taken the world by storm, and South Africa is no exception. This movement refers to the mass exodus of employees leaving their jobs due to various factors, including the pandemic, burnout, and a desire for a better work-life balance. Read MoreThe Residential Communities Council (RCC) 5 min readWhy do housing developments, like estates, need a council to represent them at the government level? We have ARC. They advocate for the industry, they educate and provide information, they create networking opportunities and offer standards and accreditations that are in the best interest of the industry. Read MoreARC and the Industry’s Digital Transformation 3 min readThe residential community industry in South Africa is facing significant challenges as it grapples with the challenges of a growing population and increasing demand for better services and amenities. Read MoreLooking for a way to assess the governance- related operations of your community association? 2 min readLooking for a way to assess the governance- related operations of your community association? Read MoreEmploying Foreigners 10 min readEmploying a foreigner without a valid work permit is an offence and exposes the employer to fines and possible imprisonment. The employment of foreigners is regulated by the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, as amended. Read MorePublic Policies for the Residential Community Industry 5 min readARC 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 MoreThe Art of Negotiation 3 min readWhy do we need to negotiate and with whom do we negotiate? You might feel that negotiation is not something you need to do or do on a daily basis, but if we understand what the aim of any negotiation is, you normally realise that you negotiate many times in a day. Read MoreHow do South African frail care facilities in residential estates compare with ones in America? 4 min readIs South Africa a frontrunner when it comes to residential estate management, facilities and care for the elderly, or does it lag behind? This is a question often considered by senior management of estates, including Sue Smith, the CEO of Helderberg Village. Read MoreGrid-tied Embedded Generation 8 min readNew energy technology solutions in South Africa provide customers the opportunity to redefine their role in the electricity value chain. These solutions include the installation of renewable generators to generate their own electricity. Read MoreApathy – perhaps the biggest problem HOA boards face 14 min readSo how does it happen that homeowners associations are so widely affected by apathy? It’s the opening sales pitch. The first thing anyone hears when they are looking to buy a piece of property in a common interest development. Read MoreWastewater Management 5 min readWhen Nomvula Mokonyane decided to suspend the Blue and Green Drop reporting system, she unleashed a fog of suspicion over the safety and security of our national water supply. Read More10 Qualities of a Community Manager 4 min readIt’s no surprise that the person who is acting as a representative of the brand should have strong people skills. The community manager, in many ways, is the face of a brand, and this person must be able to effectively communicate the message to the members, whether it be short form or long form. Read MoreHow to access reliable ( and affordable ) advice to structure a residential scheme? 4 min readEstate Living sat down with Johlene Wasserman, who until March 2023 was employed at the CSOS for almost eight years in a senior management position. In those eight years she was responsible for drafting practice directives, providing training, education and awareness to stakeholders nationwide, as well overseeing the entire Governance Business Unit. Read MoreThe PPRA is coming to Cape Town < 1 min readThe PPRA is coming to Cape Town – The PPRA will assist you, as a property practitioner in Cape Town CBD on the 20th of May 2023. 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 MoreDon’t shy away from offshore investments in your living annuity 3 min readIf you are a retiree with a living annuity or are close to retirement and looking at investing in a living annuity, you need to consider to what extent you should be invested offshore Read MoreDoes this statement apply to you? 3 min read‘I am nearing retirement, I have been planning and saving as much as possible, but I am questioning if I am on the right track? Am I using the right solutions? Is my plan structured to offer me be maximum value? 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 MoreWe didn’t want to leave our pets behind 3 min readEmigrating is hard enough without facing the prospect of giving up the family cat or dog, so many people take them along. But it involves an awful lot of planning, and not inconsiderable expense. Three recent emigrants tell us how they did it – the challenges, the stresses, and – of course – the joy. Read MoreGreen Drought 4 min readOver the last decade, we have witnessed some unusual environmental processes playing out in our daily lives. One of the highest-profile events has been the anomaly of flooding in major rivers and dams, while adjacent cities face water shortages. 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 More6 Reasons why you should move your business to Cyprus 3 min readOver the years economic problems, subsequent greylisting, a high crime rate and the burden of load shedding have resulted in many entrepreneurs considering the option of relocating their business. Read MoreShould you buy to let on a residential estate? 3 min readIs buying an investment property on an estate a good idea? Buy-to-let is a form of investment where an individual purchases a property with the sole intention of renting it out to tenants. It has become increasingly popular with units in residential estates. Read MoreFour ways you can appeal to teenagers on a residential estate 3 min readResidential estates are a great place to live for people of all ages, but sometimes teenagers can feel a little left out. This is especially true if the estate doesn’t offer amenities that cater to their age group. However, with a little bit of effort, residential estates can easily appeal to teenagers and make them feel more at home. Read MoreThe extraordinary sex life of Victoria amazonica 4 min readExplore the fascinating Victoria amazonica and its enormous leaves, capable of supporting a small adult. Read MoreLe Morne Brabant 3 min readLe Morne Brabant, one of Mauritius’s two World Heritage Sites, is renowned as much for its fabulous scenery and exciting outdoor activities as for its fascinating cultural and historic heritage. Read MoreHas SARS exempted BCs and HOAs from income tax in South Africa? < 1 min readIn South Africa, Bodies Corporate (BCs) and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) may be eligible for income tax exemption if they meet certain criteria. However, not all BCs and HOAs are automatically exempt from income tax. Read MoreWhat acts affect how estates are run and managed? 3 min readThe management of residential estates is not the straightforward task that many may believe it to be. Various laws and regulations make the job harder as estate managers must ensure estates are compliant to avoid any legal action and fines. Read MoreBroadband infrastructure enables digital education, empowers new approaches to learning 3 min readDuring this past year, we saw a surge in technology adoption to help facilitate remote teaching and learning among students and teachers. This trend has continued as schools resumed with a mix of in-person, hybrid, and fully remote learning models. Read MoreLocal is Lekka 4 min readIzaan Keller started making and fitting aluminum windows and doors when still a teenager, to earn some hard-won pocket money during the school holidays. ‘This is where my passion for aluminum and all its related systems developed,’ explains this Kingswood resident for the past six years. Read MoreGolf Course Update 3 min readWhen readers of The BUZZard were first introduced to Kingswood greenkeeper Ivan van Heerden in the October 2021 edition, he shared some thoughts on that year’s wet winter, which left the course in need of remedial action in certain sections. Read MoreGOLF @Kingswood 5 min readReporting on the year so far, Liesel Niehaus and Mike Quinn and their Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) team have much to be grateful for, starting with a successful season throughout December 2022 and January 2023, when lots of visitors enjoyed the spoils of the course and post-play social encounters. Read MoreHOA in action 3 min readWhen Mornay Stoop took up the position of Kingswood Golf Estate’s new operations manager on Spring Day last year, we introduced him to BUZZard readers with bytes of personal background and a brief summary of his job expectations. Read MoreKINGSWOOD HOA 3 min read‘Security is a moving target’ – but KGE trustees and industry experts have a solution in their sights. Security upgrades to the value of R20 million-plus will be effected over the next five years at Kingswood Golf Estate. Read MoreOur wonderful wildlife 2 min readWe have a lot of wildlife in South Africa, and as you all know, nowadays it’s not uncommon to see grazing Springbok and Impala on residential estates such as Mount Kenya Wildlife Estate, Goose Valley Golf Estate, and our very own Kingswood Golf Estate to name but a few. Read MoreThe pros and cons of living in Cyprus 3 min readOzzy and Carol Kelsey have been living in Cyprus for eight years and describe it as being ‘like heaven’. The couple grew up in South Africa and raised their children here before leaving in 2010. They lived in Abu Dhabi for six years where Carol worked as a teacher. Read MoreRunning an estate for new homeowners 2 min readIf you are new to living on an estate or development, here are some of the challenges you can be presented with, and some ideas to overcome them. Read MoreTop five things to check when moving into a residential estate 3 min readSouth Africa is home to an ever-increasing number of beautiful residential estates, each offering an unparalleled quality of life. If you’re considering buying a property in one, there are several things you should check before making your final decision. Read More5 Ways estate managers can boost the image of an estate 2 min readEstate managers play a critical role in the shaping of a residential estate. A positive image can lead to increased property values, higher occupancy rates, and better quality of life for residents. Read MoreWater Shortages in South Africa 4 min readSouth Africa is currently experiencing a wave of infrastructure failures, reflecting most noticeably as the loadshedding for electricity, and disruptions to water supply and sanitation. This begs the question as to what the root cause might be. 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 MoreWhat does it mean if South Africa is on the grey list 3 min readWith increasing petrol prices, food prices, interest rates as well as load shedding – the average South African cannot be blamed for feeling a little weighed down by the state of our economy. Read More10 top things to do in the Seychelles 2 min readThe Seychelles is home to numerous spectacular beaches, scintillating coral reefs and unique nature reserves, as well as being home to endangered birdlife and rare animals. Read MoreFive alien plants that estates should remove from their gardens 4 min readDid you know that South Africa’s efforts to combat alien invaders, through the Working for Water Programme (WfW) is one of the leading programmes in the world? Read MoreWhat should you do with your South African pension if you move abroad? 3 min readMoving abroad can be an exciting new adventure, but it can also raise questions about your financial future. One of the biggest concerns for many people is what to do with their South African pension. 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 MoreSomerset Lifestyle & Retirement Village – Phase 6 2 min readAfter a year of exceptional sales in 2022 by the Westacre Development sales team The Somerset Lifestyle and Retirement Village are proud to announce our much-anticipated launch of Phase 6 consisting of 43 life-right homes. Read MoreEmbarking on a Full World Voyage With Cunard 2 min readA full World Voyage represents one of life’s most extraordinary travel adventures. It’s an opportunity to travel between the world’s most iconic destinations on some of its most luxurious ships. This once-in-a-lifetime experience promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Read MoreWhat are the pros and cons of winning property awards 2 min readFive times in the past six years, Waterfall City has been recognised as the Best International Mixed-use Development. The largest mixed-use complex in Africa was created by WMC in collaboration with investors and developers as early as 2004. Read MoreWhy are laptop CEO’s flocking to Indonesia? 3 min readThe Indonesian government’s choice to exempt digital nomads and laptop CEOs from paying taxes is part of a larger initiative to increase foreign investment and foster economic development. The government wants to encourage more digital entrepreneurs and start-ups to locate to Indonesia by offering tax benefits. Read MoreShould you invest in the macadamia nuts industry? 3 min readWith historically high prices due to their scarcity, macadamia nuts have been considered the ‘golden standard’ nut. According to agri-economist, Juan Winter, less than 3% of the nuts consumed in the world are macadamias. 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 MoreCape Town still tops on semigrant list 3 min readWhat does Cape Town offer semigrants in terms of current trends? Are buyers relocating from elsewhere in SA more interested in renting or purchasing a property, and what kind of homes – gated estates, apartments, or free-standing units – are most in demand? Read MoreThe challenges of installing alternative energy sources 3 min readThanks to increased load-shedding, nearly every developer is looking at alternative energy solutions. There are many advantages to this. Not only does it make an estate more desirable for buyers and investors, but it’s likely to also boost property value. Read MoreLynedoch Eco-Village – a sustainable development unlike any other 4 min readStellenbosch, one of South Africa’s oldest and wealthiest wine-farming towns, and Khayelitsha, a sprawling and largely impoverished Cape Flats township, are just over 20 kilometres apart. Nestled between these two different communities you will find Lynedoch Village – an eco-village unlike any other. Read MoreHow is load shedding affecting your eating habits? 3 min readWe have all been there. About to begin dinner preparations after a tiring day at work when the power goes off. Reaching for your phone and ordering a takeaway is usually the only way of saving your sanity, as well as dinner time. Read MoreWhich country offers the best resident by investment options? 3 min readPortugal has recently shut down its residence by investment programme which was also referred to as a ‘golden visa’ scheme. It’s claimed that the decision to end it was driven by the country’s ongoing housing crisis which has driven property prices up while locals have not seen their wages increase to the same rate. Read MoreShould property developers build more big estates? 3 min readWhen it comes to gated estates, size matters. Sprawling estates spanning thousands of hectares with huge plots and resplendent with endless amenities and facilities have been quite the thing of late. Read MoreHow do you effectively complain to the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud? 3 min readIt’s been ten years since the Consumer Goods & Services Ombud (CGSO) was introduced. The CGSO gives ordinary South Africans the ability to turn to an independent industry body to help resolve disputes in the consumer goods and services sector. Read MoreAre affordable developments profitable? 3 min readSimilan, the company behind the Newinbosch development in Stellenbosch has been attracting media attention for creating affordable homes starting at R850,000. But will this concept work for other developers that want to create similar establishments? Read MoreInvest in Mauritius 2 min readWith its stunning scenery, fabulous lifestyle, ease of doing business and excellent return on investment, Mauritius is a fabulous place to invest – whether you decide to live there or not. And the best part is that, contrary to what you might think, there are some very affordable options – in fact, something for every budget. Read MoreMauritius – A compelling platform to do business with Africa 3 min readAs Mauritius joins the league of the 20 top business-friendly places in the world, it is indeed a good time to highlight the main reasons why this tiny African island in the middle of the Indian Ocean should be on the priority list of investors looking to do business with mainland Africa. Live Smart / Global Assets Read MoreHow to choose the right school in Portugal 2 min readAre you considering emigrating to the sunny shores of the Algarve or historical Lisbon? If you have children then their education will be one of the biggest considerations to affect your decision. Here is a breakdown on the options available to you. 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 MoreGauteng Property Development Forum Event < 1 min readEstate Living is very pleased to be hosting the Gauteng Property Development Forum Event. The event offers property developers an opportunity to come together to network and engage in a number of interesting and relevant information sessions. Read MoreGreylisting , in black and white 4 min readSince the news came on Friday February 24 2023 that South Africa had been added to the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) global “grey list” a lot has been said about this development that was widely expected. 10X answers some frequently asked questions. Read MoreThe Mauritius Trust 3 min readA Mauritius Trust can elect to be tax resident in Mauritius and thus avail itself of treaty benefits, with the result that capital gains tax on disposal of assets in a country with which Mauritius has a double taxation avoidance treaty can be eliminated. Read MoreHow are developers dealing with the current polycrisis? 3 min readA global polycrisis can occur ‘when crisis in multiple global systems become causally entangled in ways that significantly degrade humanity’s prospects. But how can companies deal with it? Read MoreHappy Residents, Happy Estates 3 min readBesides safety, amenities, and wide-open spaces, a sense of community is a great attraction to residing in a gated residential estate. In the modern gated communities of today, residents can build closer connections within their local communities and share the life experiences of being part of an estate, with their neighbours. Read More5 Good Reasons to Set up or Relocate your business to Mauritius 3 min readOnce a sugar-dependent country, Mauritius has emerged as a well-diversified economy well on the way to joining the league of high-income nations within the next 20 years. Since its early days as a major trading post on the route linking the East Indies to Europe, Mauritius has had an open economy, with strong linkages to Europe, Asia and Africa. Today, the island nation remains resolutely committed to its business tradition and counts as one of the most buoyant trading and investment platforms in Africa. Read MoreRetiring in Mauritius – The Mauritius Retired Non-Citizen Scheme 4 min readA much coveted tourist destination known the world over, the tropical island of Mauritius is fast emerging as a preferred destination for non-citizens looking for an enticing place to retire. With its all-year-round temperate climate, first-class infrastructure and harmonious living, this rainbow nation with an affordable cost of living has, since 2006, opened its doors to eligible non-citizens looking for a stress-free retirement. 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 MoreHow much money do you need to move abroad? 3 min readStage six loadshedding is enough to push South African families who are on the fence about relocating, into considering it seriously. However, while the grass might look much greener abroad, the costs for getting you and your family to pastures anew can be quite a complex procedure and can quickly rack up. Read MoreShould you trust financial advice given on Tik Tok? 3 min readThey call it FinTok (Financial TikTok). It refers to the world of online personal finance guidance offered by influencers and others happy to give it a go on TikTok for help and for financial advice too, particularly when it comes to the younger generation. Read MoreHow homes can respond to your needs 3 min readHome automation is no longer a concept of the future or a novelty for the rich and famous; smart-home technology is now an expected feature in any new home. Homemation Solutions architect Warren Husband believes houses can be intelligent and secure when integrated. Read MorePublic versus private education in Australia 3 min readWhat are the differences between public schooling and private schooling in Australia. Our guide to the schooling system down under will help you decide which option is going to be best for your family 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 MoreFalse advertising rules on cryptocurrencies are tightened 3 min readCryptocurrency companies usually have big marketing budgets to promote their digital currencies so it’s hardly surprising that their reach is far and wide. In the United States, their budgets have extended to them advertising during the Super Bowl where prime 30-second spots cost $7m this year according to AdAge. Read MoreCan you buy a home in Italy for R19? 4 min readWith property prices out of reach for many first-time buyers in South Africa the possibility of snapping up a home for €1 or approximately R19 (depending on currency fluctuations) may sound far-fetched. But this is a real possibility if you’re happy to consider a property in far flung Italy. Read MoreThoughtonomy Book the Perfect Post-COVID Tonic 2 min readIf you are fundamentally unhappy with any aspect of your life right now, are low on self-confidence, or you’re frustrated because you know that you deserve so much more from this life, but you have no idea how to take that first step towards change, then Thoughtonomy, the first book authored by entrepreneur, business coach and public speaker, Grant Gavin, is for you. Read MoreWill the retail property market recover in 2023? 2 min readDuring the pandemic, people had no choice but to stay at home and use online shopping. Fast forward a few years and the retail sector (although back to ‘normal’) is still suffering from a reduced footfall – particularly in shopping centres. Read MoreEye of Africa Golf and Residential Estate 5 min readThe Eye of Africa is ideally located in the South of Johannesburg, just 20 minutes from Sandton. The vision for the Eye of Africa Golf & Residential Estate is to create a vibrant recreational, social and community hub that will become the key destination and gathering space for Eye of Africa’s residential community. At Eye of Africa, the standard of living is only rivalled by the sense of community and facilities available to all residents Read MoreWhat trees can you plant in a small garden? 3 min readGardens in most affluent neighbourhoods are big and owners of homes are spoilt for choice in terms of what they can plant in them. But owners of homes with smaller gardens, especially tiny houses, must think more creatively about the space they have to ensure things don’t look too crowded. Read MoreHow to cope with the repo rate hike 2 min readThe South African Reserve Bank recently hiked rates by 25 basis points which brought the repurchase rate up to 7.25%. It means the prime lending rate now stands at 10.75%. So, what does this rate hike, as well as any potential others that may occur this year mean for your household? More importantly, how can you manage the strain of rising rates on your pocket? Read MoreLiving in Mauritius 3 min readLiving in Mauritius is basically like living in paradise, but there is more to this lovely island than the beaches and luxury resorts. When I go overseas and tell people I am from Mauritius, they’re pretty envious that I get to wake up to white sandy beaches every day. Yet, there is so much more to Mauritius than what you see in the pages of travel brochures. Read MoreHow to make money from Valentine’s Day 3 min readIt’s that time of the year when you can’t open your food-ordering app without being bombarded by Valentine’s Specials – complimentary choccies candy with your take-away burger, or heart-shaped pizzas at ‘a very special price’. Read MoreDear retiree, remember it is your money 3 min readEven as some retirees complain that they feel less useful or relevant than they did when they were working – be that teaching children, running business empires or healing the sick – one very important matter that often remains under their own control is making their savings last. Read MoreShould you let staff bring cake to the office? 2 min readA health tsar has caused a stir by suggesting a ban on office cakes totackle obesity. Should South African offices also ban cake? Read More5 Ways ChatGPT will change your life 3 min readChatGPT is a new artificial intelligence engine that has taken South Africa by a storm and some claim it is the panacea to all our problems. Read MoreFive property trends for 2023 2 min readKey economic drivers from last year such as the war in Europe, gradual interest rate hikes and mounting inflation are expected to linger well into 2023. According to Carl Coetzee, CEO of BetterBond, this will significantly impact affordability and give a rise to prudent consumer budgeting. Read MoreWhat are residential estates doing for Valentine’s Day? 2 min readWith Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, several estates have events and special offers over February to celebrate the so-called month of love. Read More4 Things to consider before investing in art for your estate 2 min readBuying valuable artworks is one of the oldest ways of investing but the practice has usually been reserved for astute art collectors who are able to distinguish a good investment piece from a bad one. 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 MoreHow to finance going off the grid 3 min readWith load shedding, more South Africans are finding their own ways to keep the lights on, but at what cost? The financial help available to fund off-grid solutions in the home Read MoreGolf @ Kingswood 3 min readSince last catching up with Liesel Niehaus, Mike Quinn and their able Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) team, there’s been lots of action on and off the course. Space at our disposal won’t allow for the inclusion of details on each of the past months’ successful golf days and related events, but read on for a summary of highlights and bragging rights earned. Read MoreHow you can deal with bullying on estates 3 min readBullying is a worldwide problem, and estimates show that every year more than a billion children experience some form of violence, particularly in school. But bullying doesn’t only manifest in the school environment. Read MoreWildlife Management Plan 4 min readThe dynamics of a game population and the management of herd health and size can become quite complicated, especially in a unique setup such as Kingswood Golf Estate. It is therefore important to bear in mind that a set of basic principles, rather than a strict programme, should be followed to manage and maintain the wildlife population on the property. Read MoreLocal n lekka ‘Life comes first, the rest will follow’ 4 min readCharl Marais has been a Kingswood homeowner for seven years, and MD-cum-majority shareholder at PPP (Precast Panel Products) since the beginning of 2022 … and he’s not had the time or inclination to ever look back. Read MoreUpdate on Telesto Tennis Centre 2 min readIn the previous edition, readers of The BUZZard were introduced to Jonathan Hills – the developer of Telesto Clay Court Tennis Centre at Rooirivier. If you missed that story, the nutshell version is that the centre is being constructed over a number of phases, the first comprising the establishment of padel tennis and clay courts, a pro shop, and refreshment stop. Read MoreKingswood HOA Meet the team 3 min readNewest member of the Kingswood HOA team, financial manager Marina Flear, at first thought she was cut out to be a teacher. But she has long since exchanged the classroom for the competitive field of business, and recently scored a top job at KGE. Read MoreTurfworx 3 min readWhen the South African Landscapers Institute dished out their coveted SALI Awards this year, one Southern Cape-based company raked in a great many accolades for work done at some of the Garden Route’s most prestigious estates and golf courses. Read MoreKingswood HOA Update on Community Centre/Clubhouse 4 min readKGE Trustee Jonathan Witts-Hewisson, at the helm of the subcommittee charged with making Kingswood’s clubhouse project work, kindly provided an update on the eve of town hall sessions scheduled for mid-December to inform residents of progress. Read MoreImmigration Act 8 min readEmploying a foreign national without a valid work permit is an offence and could result in managers or individual employers getting a possible fine or even imprisonment. Read MoreWhat is quiet quitting? 2 min readFollowing the pandemic, the world of employment changed. First, there was the ‘Great Resignation’ trend where people left jobs in their droves to meet rising living costs and to seek more ‘work life balance’ that they obtained during lockdown. Read MoreDubai – The Middle East’s Beating Heart 2 min readDubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai and is undoubtedly the area’s beating heart. Established in the 18th century as a small fishing and pearl diving village, in 1822 it had a population of about a thousand people living in a wind-swept town (most buildings made of interwoven palm fronds known as barasti) surrounded by a crude mud wall. Read MoreDubai – A Tourist’s Dream Destination 2 min readWithin easy reach from Europe, Asia and Africa, Dubai is a tourist’s dream destination. Its rapid growth from a humble fishing and pearling village to the magnificent, ritzy oasis on the Persian Gulf’s coastline to the city/emirate it is today was powered by the discovery of crude oil off its coast in the 1960s. 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 MoreIs the UK still affordable as emigration destination for South Africans? 3 min readBefore you emigrate to the United Kingdom (a place I’ve moved to twice from South Africa) let me heed some warnings before you make your mind up. After that, you can decide for yourself if moving from South Africa is an affordable option that you won’t regret further down the line. 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 MoreWhat should you do if your medical aid hikes up premiums? 3 min readLast month, Momentum, one of the country’s leading medical aid providers, announced that their premiums will be increasing by a whopping 6.4% increase from April 2023. 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 More5 Inexpensive kind things you can do for your home and environment 2 min readMany religions teach us to be kind and to give to others. But there are other reasons why you should practice kindness. There are many reports that suggest kindness is ultimately good for your health – mentally and physically. 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 MoreThe difference between a river and an ocean cruise 4 min readIf you’re looking to book your ultimate cruise holiday, it might help to understand the difference between a river and an ocean cruise. Read MoreSailing the Seven Seas on a World Voyage with Cunard for 100 Years 2 min readFor over 180 years, Cunard has set (and raised) the bar for ocean travel. 2023 marks 100 years since RMS Laconia completed Cunard’s first world voyage, and this commemorates that they have been sailing around the world for a century. Read MoreSetting up a new life in Mauritius 3 min readSean Winters is a chartered financial analyst with Riscura and moved to Mauritius five years ago for business reasons. He calls it Africa’s investment gateway and, with Riscura’s focus on emerging markets, the perfect place to establish a centre of excellence. Read MorePicking the best paints for coastal homes 2 min readCoastal homes are popular for a reason — but with the sea views and fresh ocean breezes comes the burden of maintenance and upkeep in a corrosive environment. Read MoreTop beaches in the Seychelles 2 min readSeychelles’ world-famous beaches grace the pages of many travel and fashion magazines. While some have small lazy waves and are shallow which makes them child-friendly, others are somewhat ‘wild’ and are best suited to surfing. Read More10 top things to do in the Seychelles 2 min readThe Seychelles is home to numerous spectacular beaches, scintillating coral reefs and unique nature reserves, as well as being home to endangered birdlife and rare animals. 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 MoreCuisine confidential 3 min readOwing to its geographic location and centuries of colonialism, Mauritians are highly diverse in ethnicity, culture, language and faith. Indo-Mauritians make up the bulk of the population, with significant Creole, Sino-Mauritian and Franco-Mauritian minorities. Read MoreSurprising things that can affect the value of your home 3 min readMany of us believe that investing in our homes by making renovations and changes can increase the property’s value. While that may be true some of the time there are changes and scenarios that could reduce a home’s value. If you want to boost the value of your home, adhere to these dos and don’ts. Read MoreYour guide to kids’ bikes 2 min readKids’ bikes are all about having fun, making memories, and giving your child the kind of freedom only found on two wheels. It’s amazing to see your child ride for the first time, head out together on a family cruise, and watch them grow as a rider. Read MoreReviewing luxury living at its finest – Royal Green Wellness Resort 3 min readRoyal Green Wellness Resort is a luxury retirement resort in the heart of Moka, the centre of Mauritius, surrounded by lush parklands giving it a prestigious and distinct island feel. This review of Royal Green Wellness Resort will bring you all the bespoke offerings that make this resort a perfect place for your silver years. 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 MoreWhy you shouldn’t rely on your partner’s pension 3 min readDon’t assume that you get to have a share in your partner’s pension when you retire. It’s always best to ensure your own financial independence when you reach your golden years. Read MoreGarden Route estate living is blooming 3 min readThe beautiful scenic city of George is seen as the de facto capital of the Garden Route, with spectacular mountain views, forests, beaches and rich farmlands being a part of the attraction. This urban centre has become a popular retreat for young and old alike. Read More5 Ways to make the most of Black Friday 3 min readThere are many reports claiming that Black Friday, which this year falls on 25 November, is just an opportunity to waste your money. Others claim it should be banned as it’s nothing but a distasteful profit driven event because of the chaos and fights it causes among shoppers. Read MoreThe true value of the great outdoors 2 min readThe pandemic has changed people’s lifestyle needs and priorities considerably. Read MoreDon’t lose out to fees 2 min readAccording to the recent 10X Investment Retirement Reality Report 2022, a staggering 15% of members in corporate retirement savings funds believe that the company that manages their fund doesn’t charge a fee for the service. Another 41% have no idea how much they are paying in fees. Read MoreCape Town vs Joburg: Which city should you live in? 3 min readAccording to data from Lightstone Property, Johannesburg and Cape Town are the most popular cities to relocate to. While coastal regions may still be in favour thanks to COVID-induced semigration, we look at the reasons why you might be tempted to move to either of these cities. Read MoreCan you legally enforce access control? 2 min readIt isn’t just a rumour, it is true. In a bid to get homeowners to pay levies and adhere to estate rules, managers and their Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs) have, in the most extreme scenarios, resorted to removing access control rights as a form of punishment. 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 MoreIs it a good investment to send your child to America to study? 3 min readFunding a child’s education in South Africa is expensive. Public school fees alone can set you back around R30,000- R60,000 a year. If your kids attended private school, you probably paid anything between R100,000 to R200,000 a year. Read MoreHow does lack of alternative energy sources affect your property value? 3 min readIt’s been years since households could fully rely on Eskom to deliver electricity around the clock. Most recently, the country suffered from stage 6 load shedding. Read MoreTop attractions in Mauritius 3 min readMauritius is blessed with a warm tropical climate making it a much sought-after all-year-round destination. Boasting roughly 100 laid-back beaches; a warm sea lapping its shores; spectacular lagoons; beautiful coral reefs and so much more. If you are on the hunt for that special vacation experience, Mauritius is the place to be. Read MoreFamily Fun Mauritius 3 min readAs parents with children, you know better than anyone the challenges that travelling with children can pose for you. Their attention span is shorter than yours and they are usually ‘high maintenance, can be pretty demanding – especially in strange surroundings – and if you aren’t careful they can quite easily spoil your long-anticipated holiday! Choosing a vacation destination has of course to take your particular family circumstances into consideration. Read More4 Things that can haunt your household finances this Halloween 3 min readThe world is experiencing a lot of turmoil now, and this can lead to hair-raising portfolios changes and fluctuations. While economic and geo-political factors can impact our finances there are things we do (or don’t do) that can also result in some scary financial scenarios. 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 MoreThe allure of small-town living a stone’s throw from big cities 2 min readWe look at what makes Preekstoel Beach Estate in Stilbaai an attractive holiday and property investment destination. Being so close to so many metropolitan areas, yet remote and offering the perfect small-town feel, Preekstoel Beach Estate in Stilbaai has a lot to offer holiday-makers and investors alike. Below we bring you everything you need to know about Stilbaai as an area. 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 MoreIs your estate ready for day zero 3 min readCape Town might have narrowly averted running out of water in 2018, but that doesn’t mean South Africa is off the hook. The water crisis is a global one, with two-thirds of the world’s population facing water shortages by 2025 if urgent action isn’t taken. Read MoreIs having a pool worth the splash 3 min readEveryone seems to have a view when it comes to pools – some houses seem naked without one, while others can appear overdressed with one. Answering these three questions will help you work out whether you really need one. Read MoreShould you get a free will? 3 min readNational Wills Week takes place every September the initiative is taking place between the 12th – 16th September. Read MoreSay yes! To Seychelles 2 min readPristine beaches meet unspoiled forests, and unique natural treasures range from the tiny Tiger Chameleon to giant Aldabra tortoises and the Coco de Mer nut found nowhere else on Earth. Read MoreUnderstanding labour law is vital if you’re outsourcing 3 min readIt’s not uncommon these days to consider outsourcing a department within a residential estate. Doing this may be more practical or cheaper. There could be a host of benefits to the residential estate as well as its management. Read More4 Mistakes you could make if you don’t have a financial advisor 3 min readWhen it comes to managing our finances few of us can claim to be experts. However, some of us forge ahead and try to manage our money ourselves. Some do it as they believe they know what they’re doing and others do it because of some misguided belief that they are saving themselves money in fees. 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 MoreShould you open estate facilities to non-residents? 2 min readThe types of facilities on today’s residential estates are infinite, ranging from the usual gyms, golf courses and restaurants, to swankier spas, boating clubs, equestrian centres and even hotels and helipads. They’re all designed to offer resident’s a premium, money-can’t-buy lifestyle, but they don’t come cheap. Allowing non-residents to use these facilities is one way to recoup these costs, but is it worth the bother? Read MoreShould estates cater to work from home residents, or was WFH just a temporary fad? 3 min readWith more people than ever working from home, the prospect of loneliness is ever increasing. So, how can estates cater to WFH residents and have any estates begun to do so while still facilitating the need for a ‘buzz’ of human companionship? Read MoreRambling through wondrous walks 3 min readOne of the most lavish indulgences of living on a lifestyle estate is the low-density living that often comes with the added perk of beautiful scenery. From rolling hills, dense forests, magnificent wine valleys and untouched coastal splendour, South African residential estates offer some of the most exquisite views and walking trails the world has to offer. 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 MoreThe benefits of adding an outdoor gym 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 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 MoreGeneral Manager Position available at Simbithi Eco Estate 2 min readSimbithi Eco Estate (Simbithi), is a leading gated estate on the North Coast of KZN which is home to approximately 6500 residents, comprises a commercial business zone, Country Club, restaurants, and a golf course. Read MoreShoot the birds! 3 min readTaking into account the burgeoning bevy of birders around the world, and more specifically bird clubs based at estates, two expert lensmen provide guidance to the wannabe nature photographers out there. Read MoreMake December Magical in Mauritius 2 min readIt’s the first choice that visitors should be looking for as an idyllic holiday destination. Called “Heaven on Earth” Mauritius has a warm tropical climate which makes it a sought-after destination. Read MoreKingswood’s neighbours 3 min readIf you think big-time developers wear designer suits, need to be ‘of a certain age’, or have an unassailable air of importance, think again: sporty Jonathan Hills, 40, is at the helm of an exciting project at the Rooirivier site just up the road from Kingswood Golf Estate, and he’s the epitome of a new-generation boy on the George development block. Read MoreFocus on ProQS founder Eugene Schoombie 5 min readThis column introduces exceptional Kingswood residents, who run businesses that do the estate proud and prove a boon to the Garden Route and beyond. As the name implies, ProQS specialises in quantity surveying, but also offers many other building-related services, having been intimately involved in the Southern Cape construction industry for a quarter century-plus. Read MoreFor Kingswood’s wilder residents 3 min readOn a bright January morning back in 2018, George Animal Hospital welcomed Dr Christiaan Blignaut to its team of veterinarian specialists and animal-loving support staff. Read MoreKnow The Rules – Is it legal, reasonable, enforceable? 3 min readIt’s illegal for teenagers to ride on golf carts, but some estates turn a blind eye and so risk litigation, were something to go horribly wrong. Estate managers are urged to familiarise themselves with lesser-known rules in order to avoid trouble with the law. Read MoreCatching up with Kingswood Golf Operations 3 min readFresh from having pulled off a particularly successful Algoa Charity Golf Day, the Kingswood Golf Operations team revisits tournaments and highlights select upcoming events most worthy of honourable mention. Read MoreBringing out the best in you is but one of Tony’s many strengths 5 min readAt the Kingswood Golf Estate AGM on 27 June, two new trustees were selected to serve alongside existing office bearers Marilyn Kamp and Gerrit Nieuwoudt – welcomed into the fold that memorable Monday were Jonathan Witts-Hewinson and Anthony Jacobsen. Jonathan was on leave when this edition saw the light, but do read on to find out more about the inimitable ‘Tony J’. Read MoreKingswood clubhouse, security, and dam wall repairs 5 min readThe new KGE clubhouse and community centre: ‘for the flow of it’ When chatting to Kingswood resident Eugene Schoombie about his role in realising the estate’s new clubhouse, the excitement is palpable. But Eugene – a quantity surveyor and project manager by profession Read MoreMeet Kingswood’s new ops man, Mornay Stoop 2 min readKingswood Golf Estate’s new operations manager, Mornay Stoop, took up this challenging and exciting post on 1 September. While he isn’t a golfer we found that Mornay, who is from the northern reaches of KwaZulu-Natal, is truly up to the task. Read MoreIs sustainable fashion in South Africa achievable 3 min readSouth Africa’s fashion and textile industry has suffered in recent years thanks to cheap imports from China and other emerging markets, but this is starting to change thanks to initiatives like Proudly South African and consumers realising the importance of supporting local talent. 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 MoreHorrible things come in small packages 4 min readA silent, subtle threat to biodiversity is spreading across the country almost unnoticed – and this isn’t something removed from us in the way of, say, rhino poaching that’s happening in the wilderness areas we visit only occasionally. It’s hitting us in our gardens and our cities. It’s killing our trees, and it’s chomping its way through one of the world’s biggest urban forests – Johannesburg. 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 MoreHow can you get funding for your small business? 3 min readStarting and running your own small business in South Africa isn’t easy but it can be very rewarding when you get it right. This is because, as a small business owner, there’s a lot that you can offer, such as jobs and you’re also contributing to the country economically. 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 get upgraded on a flight 3 min readWhen you’re flying you can be forgiven for being a bit envious of the first-class passengers on board as they enjoy their champagne on tap, flat bed and free toiletries. Read MoreHow to save money on your mobile phone contract 3 min readFor many, a mobile phone is a necessity, but that doesn’t mean the contract for it should cost you an arm and a leg. Read MoreIs estate management a good career for a woman? 3 min readThere has been an influx of women filling some job positions in the property sector in recent years (think real estate), however, when it comes to estate management this has generally been male dominated. 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 MoreFinding a job in the UK 3 min readLooking for a job abroad can be tough. Uncertainty on where to move and what career path to go down are challenges faced by many who move to the United Kingdom. Read MoreWhat is the UK’s Innovator visa? 2 min readThe Innovator visa targets individuals who are looking to establish or invest in an original, unique business in the UK. However, these must be endorsed by a Home Office approved endorsing body, so is it the best option? And is it the key to kickstarting your business overseas? We unpack how the visa works and the pros and cons. Read MoreKnow the rules 3 min readIt’s illegal for teenagers to ride on golf carts, but some estates turn a blind eye and so risk litigation, were something to go horribly wrong. Estate managers are urged to familiarise themselves with lesser-known rules to so avoid trouble with the law. Read MoreAurum Zimbali Lakes, Durban South Africa < 1 min readAurum Zimbali Lakes falls within the prestigious Zimbali Lakes Estate situated on the North Coast of Durban KwaZulu-Natal South Africa. As one of the first North Coast EDGE-certified green developments, the homes include renewable energy, water efficiency and reduce embodied energy in the building materials. Aurum offers investors a choice of 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom homes priced from R8.5 million to R9.2 million 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 MoreHow safe is your neighbourhood? 3 min readThe local crime level is an important consideration when selecting where to live. National crime stats released annually by the South African Police Service (SAPS) aren’t necessarily credible, so it was refreshing when, last month, News24 launched CrimeCheck. Read MoreShould you allow your employees to work remotely overseas? 3 min readFollowing the pandemic, remote working has continued to feature, with some employers and employees seeing the benefits. There are plenty of advantages. Flexible working not only saves time and costs, but it can also ramp up productivity and performance. 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 MoreBest places to retire for South Africans 3 min readThere are many questions to ask yourself as you head into retirement. What am I looking for? How important is security? Do I need appropriate access to medical treatment? What do I need to consider before moving abroad? And, most importantly, where exactly do I want to spend my retirement? Here we unpack how to reach that decision. Read MoreCareering ahead through COVID, one managed property at a time 3 min readImagine starting a new division of a property management company, only for Covid to set in a little over a month later. That is exactly what happened when talented entrepreneur Chanet Muller took over the reins of Devmark Property Group’s property management arm. 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 MoreA passion for teaching and impactful investments 3 min readEmpowerment has always been at the centre of everything Tefelo does. She started her career as a high school teacher, teaching accountancy and economics. When a group of youngsters found themselves without a scheduled class or a teacher to teach them, Tefelo took these foundlings under her wing when no other teachers were interested in the additional burden. Read MoreHow to provide the best frail care – Should you outsource frail care? 2 min readAn extensive frail care offering can do wonders for your retirement estate, attracting an influx of residents and setting your estate apart from other senior living communities. Read MoreBeat load shedding with Huawei fusionsolar 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 MoreThe Ennéa Golf Villas – The latest phase released by Azuri < 1 min readThe Ennéa Golf Villas at Azuri are designed to offer you an exclusive lifestyle experience in the luxury of an island villa set beside the manicured greens of a world-class 9-hole signature par 3 golf course, within a vibrant seaside village. 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 MoreEstate Living Property Developer Forum Event KZN June 2022 < 1 min readEstate Living was pleased to host the KwaZulu-Natal Property Development Forum Event. The event offered property developers an opportunity to come together to network and engage in a number of interesting and relevant information sessions. The theme of this year’s event is ‘KZN Built Environments: Growth and Investment that effects change TODAY ’. Read MoreHow to build a property portfolio and make money 3 min readMany profess to be knowledgeable about investing in property and try to make money off people who are interested in making a quick buck. But there are some legitimate operators out there who have a few tips and tricks up their sleeves who know the property game and can show wannabe investors a thing or two about making real money. Read More5 Changes that pensioners can expect to retirement legislation 3 min readPensions are a way to ensure that we get an income in our golden years when we stop working. Over the years the guarantee of that income has diminished as government tries to shift more responsibility has shifted onto people. Read MorePaint to go 3 min readThe climatic conditions of any given South African region vary dramatically from one to the next. We go from a Mediterranean climate in the country’s southwestern corner, to temperate conditions on the interior plateau, to subtropical in the northeast, or desert-like in the northwest. These varying conditions make a difference as to how the paintwork of a residential estate may endure. 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 More5 European countries with the best Christmas markets 3 min readYou’d be forgiven for thinking that you want to get away from it all this Christmas. It has been a trying couple of years with the pandemic and most families have kept trips to a minimum as travel restrictions continued to apply even as Covid-19 numbers reduced. Read MoreManaging a retirement estate vs a general residential estate 3 min readRetirement estates differ quite considerably in comparison to your average golf, equestrian and general lifestyle estates. The obvious distinction are the type of residents and amenities on offer, but what about the management? 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 MoreWeddings on residential estates 3 min readHow can estate managers best lure the lucrative wedding trade? An old hand in the game shares pearls of wisdom to guide newbies as well as nuptial fundis, so ensuring return business while preventing the loss of customers to other wedding venues. Read MoreWhat’s the difference between a UK spouse visa and a fiancé visa? 3 min readMany non-EEA nationals look to travel to and settle down in the UK with their partner using a spouse visa. However, the lesser-known fiancé visa is also an option for people moving abroad. We unpack what each visa has to offer, the differences between the two, and the pros and cons. Read MoreWill Amazon’s launch mean more competition for the consumer in South Africa? 3 min readA report by Business Insider South Africa claims that online retail giant Amazon has plans to launch in South Africa in 2023. The website says it has seen leaked documentation that Amazon will launch its Prime service in the country too. 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 MoreHow to choose the right online high school 3 min readGoing to school has traditionally involved learners physically attending school premises but following the pandemic it’s become more acceptable to work online, even when it comes to schooling. Read MorePenthouse living in Mauritius 3 min readOwning a beautiful penthouse in Mauritius – sounds like a dream, right? It doesn’t have to stop there. Here we look at the latest penthouses on offer and what they cost. Read MoreThe most asked questions from new residents in a retirement estate 3 min readBuying a home is a big decision but doing it in your senior years can be even more stressful and daunting. It is natural for older buyers to have concerns about investing in a retirement estate, especially if they haven’t lived in an estate before. The good news is most of the questions below can be taken care of quickly with some reassuring responses. Read MoreWill South Africa see the introduction of 100-year home loans? 3 min readSome governments in other parts of the world have gone to some extraordinary lengths to tackle affordability of housing in their respective countries. 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 More4 Clever things you can do with your tax refund 2 min readThe South African Revenue Service has paid out a record R321.1 billion in refunds to taxpayers. So, what should you do with the money you get back from the taxman? Should you spend or save it? Read MoreHow best spas on residential estates cope post Covid 3 min readThese days going to a spa for a massage or facial has become an essential part of life. The industry has continued to grow rapidly in recent years thanks to increasing pursuit of improved health and stress reduction. 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 MoreLOCAL ‘n lekka: ‘Simpler, better, faster’ embodies the quest of Marinda and her 4Xcellence team 4 min readIn a recent career interview with a bright Grade 11 student, Marinda Swart used the payoff line of a decades-old banking advert to explain the driving force behind her career choice and subsequent business success: Simpler, better, faster! ‘It aptly describes what Industrial Engineering sets out to attain: process optimisation to integrate people and products.’ Read MoreGolf Director: It’s all about managing expectations – and Kingswood’s golf director fits the bill … as well as the club 3 min readThe BUZZard caught up with KGE Director of Golf, Clifford Howes, on a very wet Friday morning. Fortunately, this meant he had time to chat whereas, in less water-logged climes, he’d probably be out there on the course making new members feel at home. Read MoreKingswood Golf: Kingswood Golf Ops reports on Under-18s, Elvis Blue and a worthy cause or two? 3 min readMike Quinn and Liesel Niehaus of Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) share feedback of events hosted on and off the KGE course since the last BUZZard update – and residents would do well to diarise the dates of coming attractions listed below, kindly provided by the able Golf Ops team. Read MoreKingswood Security: Top-level planning kick-starts KGE’s three-year security strategy 3 min readThe Security and Risk Subcommittee of the Kingswood Board, under the chairmanship of Kingswood Golf Estate (KGE) trustee Chris Horsley, shared exciting news about plans in the 2022-25 pipeline – albeit in the context of ever-changing security technology. Read MoreKingswood HOA Feedback 4 min readAs prelude to the Kingswood Golf Estate Annual General Meeting on 27 June, the KGE Homeowners Association trustees provide feedback on recent strategic planning sessions, an imminent change in the structure of the HOA, and action schedules that sprouted from these important talks. 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 MoreColours and considerations for a capital community 3 min readWhen it comes to selecting a paint palette for a residential estate, your role as developer is to first take in the environment in which the homes are located. Yes, nature can prove the finest resource from which to draw your inspiration – many homeowners’ associations specify that the homes in their developments are painted to match their natural surroundings. A limited palette of a few permissible external colours also helps create the estate’s visual identity and a sense of coherence. 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 to consider when staff work remotely 2 min readDuring the pandemic businesses of all shapes and sizes had to adapt and make room for employees working from home (WFH) to adhere to strict quarantine rules that were imposed on all the world over. 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 MoreHow to prepare for a return to work after taking parental leave 3 min readReturning to the office after taking some parental leave, even if it was only for a short time, can be daunting. 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 MoreHow is the insurance risk of your home calculated? 2 min readIf you’re in the market to buy a home, there are lots of other costs to consider than just the price of the property and the legal and banking fees that come with securing finance to purchase it. Read MorePros and cons of ‘lording it’ 3 min readBeing a landlord is a great way to generate extra cash through a steady stream of rental income, but not everyone is cut out for the job. Read MoreShould you increase your levies or not? 3 min readEvery estate homeowner is obliged to pay a monthly levy to ensure the scheme is run efficiently and benefits all. Read MoreChildhood toys that could earn you a fortune 3 min readYou may dream of winning the Lotto one day. But what if I told you that you could be sitting on a small fortune right now? Read MoreAll-weather island allure 3 min readMauritian leisure options are too numerous to list, but a handful of attractions for winter visitors to Isle de Maurice deserves a mention, with emphasis on the island’s markets, a nod to its museums, a pinch of exotic eats, and miles of scenic drives. Read MoreCan South Africa build flood resilience in Durban? 3 min readRising sea levels caused by climate change are fast becoming one of the biggest threats to our homes and communities. Catastrophic floods like those experienced in Durban last month are increasingly common all over the world. Read MoreWhy are women better stock pickers than men? 3 min readWe often hear about how women need to save more, as they tend to earn less and usually have an income gap during the time they go on maternity leave to look after children while their partner continue to work. 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 spot a charity scam 3 min readFake fundraisers are the latest way in which fraudsters are conning victims out of their hard-earned cash. Scammers are using sophisticated technology, such as fake donation websites, to obtain people’s personal information and to fleece them out of their money. Read MoreWhat is gap insurance and why is it essential? 3 min readGap insurance has become a necessary product for most South Africans who want to use private healthcare services. It can be a lifesaver for those who approach specialists who charge far more than is covered by standard medical schemes. 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 MoreEmigration and International Property Investment a focus on Cyprus and USA for South Africans < 1 min readWhat to expect if you are planning on investing in the international property market, whether it’s for emigration or pure investment. 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 MoreThe new BMW 8 Series transform luxury 2 min readLuxury presents premium quality most pleasing to the senses – it looks and feels good. With revolutionary styling and technical perfection, the BMW 8 Series sports cars are uniquely luxurious. Each model variant masterfully combines pleasing yet dynamic design with extraordinary precision that encloses its driver in incomparable comfort and impressive performance. Read MoreSustainable precincts: the key to people leading healthier, more productive, and socially responsible lives 4 min readSustainable precincts are the key to people leading healthier, more productive, and socially responsible lives. Read MoreInsurance Cover for Property Development < 1 min readThe devils in the details – Ensuring you have sufficient coverage for your development project. Read MoreWhat should you do when buying a home for the first time with a partner? 3 min readIf you’re buying a home with your partner – congratulations! It’s a big commitment and an exciting journey. But there are several things you should prepare to have a good and honest experience. 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 MoreHow to improve your credit score in the UK 3 min readIf you emigrate to a place like the United Kingdom and haven’t lived there before, chances are you’ll be starting from scratch with your credit history. 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 MoreTechnogym Ride: the first indoor bike connected to the most popular cycling apps 2 min readEvery cyclist dreams of riding their bike on Alpe d’Huez, in the Dolomites, or Icelandic highlands. Technogym Ride is the first bike featuring a 22-inch screen that allows users to dive into an unprecedented immersive indoor experience. Through a single log-in – without installation or setup hassles – get easy access to your favourite training apps and content. Read MoreTechnogym Create A Premium Health & Fitness Space For Branston Country Club & Golf Course In England 3 min readBranston Golf and Country Club is a premium independent club with one of the top-rated golf courses in the country. But it’s not just golf that Branston is renowned for: alongside two golf courses, it also offers spa facilities, events and conferences, a stunning clubhouse and restaurant, and full fitness facilities. Read MoreProperty courses and qualifications 2022 2 min readMany institutions now offer recognised qualifications in property management and real estate. If you want to sharpen your skill or change your career, here are a few that commence later this year: Read MoreMarketing your estate internationally 3 min readMulti-awarded sales associate at RE/MAX Plettenberg Bay, Bruce Noble, boasts two decades of marketing properties in the coastal Garden Route haven. 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 MoreDoes the bunny still make estates money? 3 min readEaster is not only a date commemorated by believers the world over, but also a time for commercial enterprises to entertain the general public and generate welcome revenue in the process. Here’s a peep at what some of South Africa’s best-known estates have in the pipeline this year. 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 MoreRenovations that will increase your home’s value 3 min readOne of the greatest dangers when renovating is over-capitalisation (when your total expenditure, including the purchase price of the property plus any alterations costs, exceeds the amount you could sell it for). 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 MoreShould I rent my home or sell it if I’m moving abroad? 3 min readWhen you’re emigrating one of the first things to consider is if you’ll keep your sell your home. It’s a hard choice to make as, for some, there’s always the consideration of moving back if things don’t work out. Read MoreNew East London mega property development 3 min readAn innovative new lifestyle development at Cove Rock, East London is set to bring a combination of affordable housing opportunities, economic upliftment and social transformation to Buffalo City’s west coast. The response from market since RockCliff Living’s sales launch two weeks ago has been overwhelmingly positive. 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 MoreFrom the inside, out – the best paints for those hard-wearing exteriors 3 min readWhen tasked with selecting coatings for the exterior walls of residential developments of all kinds – from golf estates and smaller complexes, to retirement facilities or holiday villages – you’ll never go wrong by casting an eye over the Plascon Professional and Premium ranges… Read MoreAdding a new coat of paint is very much a team effort 4 min readIf you’re a construction professional who has been tasked with the exterior maintenance of a residential estate, here are a few things to consider before you set any painting work in motion… Read MoreBuying a family horse in South Africa 3 min readIf you’ve moved into an equestrian estate like Val de Vie, Dieu Donne or Waterfall Equestrian Estate you may feel tempted to buy yourself or your children a pony or hose if you’re passionate about all things equestrian. Read MoreHiring the right SMEs to work on a residential estate 3 min readDespite being small Ronewa Creations – a Gauteng based landscaping company owned by aunt and niece duo Dinah Kgeledi and Lesego Seloane – has ongoing contracts at several residential estates, including Eye of Africa, Waterfall Estate and Serengeti. 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 MoreStats on Kingswood Golf Estate’s humans, animals, homes and more 2 min readA veritable army of specialists takes care of the many aspects and areas in constant need of maintenance at Kingswood Golf Estate. The interesting facts and figures below make for a riveting read … Read MoreClub Captains 5 min readBoth these Kingswood club captains have golf and good governance in their blood Read MoreIt’s all on course thanks to Ivan’s awesome team 3 min readMeet the course specialists who keep the 18 holes of Kingswood Golf Estate in tip-top shape – come torrential rain or scorching shine … Read MoreKingswood Golf 3 min readLiesel Niehaus of Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) sheds some light on the season that was, when a record number of players chose this fine course for their festive games with near and dear ones. The Golf Ops team also kindly provided a list of coming attractions, with many a date for players and residents to diarise. Read MoreKingswood HOA feedback 4 min readWorking with a clear future vision as foundation for almost every decision taken by the management of Kingswood Golf Estate today has become the norm for CEO Willem Jacobs and the trustees. Read MoreLocal ‘n Lekka – Family is Juan Van Der Merwe’s most Treasured Tenure 3 min readKingswood residents for the past eight years, Juan and Verna van der Merwe are properly ensconced in the George community, being essential cogs in the town’s industrial machine and educational fold respectively. 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 MoreAre you insured against fire? 3 min readFire damage has destroyed several key buildings in South Africa, including Parliament and the University of Cape Town (UCT). While there’s always the threat of arson, it’s not uncommon for veld fires to destroy the surrounding fauna and flora in the summer months. 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 MoreHow To Start A Business On An Estate In 2022 3 min readThe pandemic has created a situation where more of us want to start our own business to continue to enjoy working from home (WFH). However, if you’re living on a residential estate, starting up your own business may be a bit more complicated a process. This is because there are often rules and regulations that you need to adhere to. Read MoreServest Won Double Gold Awards At The University Of Pretoria 4 min read‘SALI was created by a group of landscapers who believed that the true potential of the landscaping industry could be realised only if landscapers showed unity, produced excellent work and worked with professionalism and integrity,’ says Professor Susan Adendorff, Director of UP Facilities Management. ‘SALI and its members are associated with and represented by the South African Green Industries Council [SAGIC].’ 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 MoreFinding Affordable Ways To Pay For Tertiary Education Abroad 3 min readIn January we reported how Johannesburg matriculant Sazi Bongwe secured admission to Harvard University. It was a well-deserved placement as Bongwe achieved nine distinctions in his final matric exams with an average of 95.9%. If you have similar visions of your child excelling and studying abroad then you may have to think about the affordability of it all. So, is it affordable? Here we look at the options. 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 More4 Things we waste money on when moving abroad 3 min readWhen you’re having a spring clean you tend to start off with the best of intentions. But the longer you take and delve into the things that have sentimental value the harder it is to let go of items you should really throw out. 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 MoreFive ways to prevent your staff from joining the Great Resignation 2 min readLast year, 33 million Americans gave up their jobs in what’s been termed the Great Resignation. Things might not be as bad in South Africa, but research shows that employees now move on with far less caution than in previous years, and senior staff in corporate roles opting for early retirement. 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 MoreMount Edgecombe Country Club Estate – The Pioneer of Residential Estates 2 min readThe recent opening of the new splash pad and putt-putt course is indicative of the family-focused offerings for which Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate is becoming increasingly well known for. Read MorePinnacle Point Estate – A Lifestyle Destination < 1 min readMost notably, in 2016, 2017, 2020 it was named South Africa’s Best Golf Course & in 2020, Africa’s Best Golf Course at the Annual World Golf Awards with nominations in 2018 & 2019. In addition, the spectacular course was named Most Popular International Golf Course at the 19th Annual Golf Journal (Germany) Travel Awards in 2020. 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 MoreDiscover Altezza Gardens In Mauritius 4 min readAltezza Gardens offers noncitizens the opportunity to invest in a G+2 development from R2 million and be eligible for a residence permit from R5.5 million Read MoreTreat Yourself To The Ultimate In Seafront Living At Infinity By The Sea 3 min readSeafront property is rare and sought after in Mauritius, even more so since the pandemic has prompted people to buy the spacious home of their dreams in natural surroundings. Infinity by the Sea is the latest project to come on stream for 2Futures, the leading property developers in the north and west of Mauritius. What makes it extra special is that it is approved for foreign investment. 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 MoreWhat is the Mauritius premium visa? 2 min readMauritius is offering long term visas for remote workers who wish to relocate to the beautiful island. With more than just the stunning scenery on offer, here we unpack what the visa is, how easy it is to apply, and the chances of success… 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 MoreIntroducing the Sonos Roam SL ultraportable go-anywhere speaker 3 min readAvailable in South Africa from March 15 2022, the premium, compact and versatile new speaker delivers powerful yet detailed sound – at a friendly price. Read MoreHow will Russia’s attack on Ukraine affect the South African economy 3 min readRussia’s attack on Ukraine has dominated our news feeds. While South Africa may be a long way off geographically from the conflict that’s not to say it won’t feel the brunt of it financially. 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 MoreAre we moving away from estates golf courses? 3 min readGolf is a very popular sport in South Africa. We’ve produced some top players such as Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, Gary Player and Ernie Els to name but a few. 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 MoreTymbank launches new credit card 3 min readLast month TymeBank launched its first credit card. According to the TransUnion Industry Insight Report there are 6.9 million people that currently own a credit card in South Africa and now TymeBank wants to muscle in on this lucrative marketplace. 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 MoreMAURITIUS – The Time to Invest is Now < 1 min readMauritius continues to not only offer a great lifestyle, but over the last 18 months the Mauritian government have created more opportunities for South Africans to invest or emigrate. Legislative changes, new visa options and a wider variety of price points for property investment are just a few of the tools implemented. 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 MoreCan estate managers enforce vaccinations? 3 min readThe issue of mandatory vaccinations basked in the spotlight during tennis ace Novak Djokovic’s recent Australian Open debacle. 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 MoreThe Irish Immigrant Investor Programme – is it financially attainable? 3 min readThe Irish Immigrant Investor Programme is a scheme designed to help those not in the European Economic Area who wish to immigrate and make investments in the State. 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 More5 Best Engineering Schools in the US right now 3 min readEngineering is a popular university pathway for many students across the world, including South Africans looking to study abroad. Read More4 questions South Africans must ask themselves before studying abroad 3 min readThere are many considerations when looking to study in the US, UK and Europe. Things like weather, costs and culture; language, alumni and geography, are all important and must be considered objectively and realistically. 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 MoreCan you get the same lifestyle in Britain as you do in South Africa? 4 min readThere are always several good reasons why South Africans emigrate Britain. While they may vary there are some that pop up time and again. These include the need to feel safe, good schooling, jobs, and the ability to travel. Read MoreSemigration in South Africa 3 min readA recent presentation by Lightstone Properties reveals Gauteng residents and semigrants from other South African provinces favour the Western Cape when buying new property, and that estate living tops the residential wish list of those relocating to the Garden Route. Here we explore the reasons behind these trends. 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 More2022 Cape Town Cycle Tour Set For Traditional March Date < 1 min readThe Cape Town Cycle Tour, presented by Pick n Pay, is all set for March 13, 2022 with a limited field of 22 500 expected and a pre-race Expo confirmed. 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 MoreDry January – 6 Tips to get back on track 2 min readTen years ago, South Africa was the 19th biggest drinking nation in the world according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Fast forward to now and unfortunately, we’re in a worse position as sixth-highest consumer of alcohol globally. Read MoreJust right to brighten your braai room, patio or exterior walls 3 min readSummer’s here and with it, those wonderful warm days and balmy evenings that make dining al fresco such a pleasure! It’s time to update your outdoor area to make the most of the season. 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 MoreEstate Living year end celebration < 1 min readThank you to all our partners, subscribers and new members, we appreciate all the support through 2021 and look forward to a successful 2022 for all. Read MoreWill insurance cover first aid accidents? 3 min readWhen it comes to assisting in an emergency professional and qualified staff don’t tend to hesitate. They also tend not to give the potential for being sued, should anything go wrong, a second thought. Read More3 reasons why you need a trusted insurer 2 min readBeing on a board of trustees comes with a seemingly never-ending list of things to do. From managing the day-to-day running of the estate to maintaining the common property, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. Ensuring that the estate is adequately insured is undoubtedly an item on every trustee’s agenda, but here are 3 reasons why finding a trusted insurer should be moved to the very top of the to-do list. Read MoreWhose wall is it anyway? 2 min readBoundary walls and fences identify the dividing line between two properties, or the dividing line between private property and common areas. This makes it indisputably clear whose property is within a wall. But, what about the ownership of the wall itself? 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 MoreFor The Birders 3 min readKingswood resident Karen Schoombie landed control of the ‘Queen of Birding’ reins when a homeowner previously in charge of the tweet had to up and move away from Kingswood Golf Estate earlier this year. Read MoreKingswood Achievements And Investments 4 min readMarilyn Kamp, one of four Homeowners Association (HOA) trustees – along with fellow newbies Chris Horsley and Fielies Nieuwoudt, and old hand Gerrit Botha – provided the meat for this summary of the year that was at Kingswood Golf Estate, and some exciting future bytes. We also thank former trustee and numbers man par excellence, Roy Edge, for contributing to the facts and figures below. 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 MoreJetline George Is In Excellent Hands 4 min readWhen The BUZZard caught up with Deon van Greunen on a wet Monday morning (but not quite as wet as the infamous Flood Monday of a fortnight before … more news on this elsewhere in this edition), he was just ‘moving his boat’. Read MoreKingswood’s – Road To Compliance 4 min readThe Kingswood Golf Estate (KGE) management team embarked on a POPIA and PAIA Compliance Preparation Project in May 2021 in order to establish appropriate measures for protecting the personal information of homeowners, residents, visitors and other stakeholders in a lawful and secure manner. Read MoreWhat’s On At Kingswood This Season … And How Cool Are These New Carts?! 4 min readThe investment of Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) in the acquisition of 30 brand-new golf carts did much to lighten the mood of those estate management members grappling with the aftermath of the 22 November flood. Read MoreBest Practice – Short-Term Rental 3 min readBest practice when it comes to responsible short-term letting at Kingswood Golf Estate (KGE) is always worth a relook, with the summer season now here and the issue invariably resurfacing in what may be billed the making-a-festive-buck context. Read MoreFlood Damage 5 min readGeorge measured 105mm of rainfall in a two-hour period on Monday 22 November, which led to extensive flash flood damage to private as well as municipal infrastructure. In total, George measured 148.5mm of rain from 22–24 November – a record in anyone’s books, but miraculously without severe injuries or fatalities being reported in the days following the storm. 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 MoreNew year, new resolutions, new you 3 min readWhen it comes to New Year’s promises, we’ve heard it all before. We pledge to start exercising at the gym, lose weight, get organised, and living life to the fullest. But why do we find it so hard to stick to them come January? 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 MoreThree ways of improving residents’ fitness on your estate 2 min readGetting your heart rate up a few times every week can do wonders for your health. Not only does regular physical activity increase levels of endorphins – the happy hormone, but it also reduces cortisol – the stress hormone, which we could all do with less of. 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 MoreIs Portugal’s Golden Visa still one of the best immigration programmes? 2 min readDespite a few recent changes to the program, Portugal’s Golden Visa remains largely appealing to South African investors and residents. Read MoreInvesting in NFT art 2 min readEarlier this month, Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales auctioned off a non-fungible token (NFT) of the first edit ever made on Wikipedia. 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 MoreHow to save money on ‘back to school’ 2 min readJanuary is certainly not the cheapest time of year. With the dreaded ‘back to school’ shopping, we all need a helping hand to save a few extra rands here and there. Whether that be paying school fees in advance or simply making a list to cross off those unnecessary extras, here are some useful money saving tips that might help you learn something new. Read MoreHow to find a job abroad 2 min readWith Covid-19 still throwing a spanner in the works for South African travellers it’s become more difficult moving abroad. But it’s not impossible to do so. And if you’re stuck in South Africa till well into 2022, it’s still possible to earn an income from abroad. Here’s how: Read MoreHow to declutter your home ahead of 2022 2 min readThe thought of decluttering your home can be overwhelming. Where do you start? Do you have time? Read More5 Ways to pay less tax 2 min readWe all pay tax. There really is no escaping it. However, there are things you can do to pay less tax and they’re all perfectly legal. Here’s five ways to ensure you hand over less money to the taxman: 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 MoreEuropean countries with the best parental leave conditions 2 min readWhen it comes to maternity and paternity leave, South Africa has not kept up with the rest of the world. According to South African law, moms are entitled to four months unpaid maternity leave. During this time, you can claim from the UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund). Read MoreThree ways to manage the finances of incapacitated parents 2 min readIn most cases, a power of attorney falls away and is not legal if your parents start showing signs of mental incapacity. Without an alternative plan, things could become problematic. Read MoreCrimson Education and Crimson Global Academy – This Week in Admissions 3 min readThe world of college admissions is ever-changing and for students planning to apply to universities, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments. We’ve rounded up the latest news and given our take on what it means for future and current college students. Check back each week to see what’s new! 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 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 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 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 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 MoreIs It Worth Taking Your Furniture Abroad? 3 min readWorking out whether to sell or keep your furniture depends on things such as its size, value, transport, and insurance costs. It can be tricky moving furniture abroad, but, with some forward planning and research, it can be done cost effectively. 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 MoreEducating kids in Mauritius 3 min readOne of the many concerns parents have when moving abroad is finding the right school for their children. 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 MoreResolving residential frictions 3 min readConflict resolution between estate managers and residents is often a work in progress. How long does it take to resolve disputes, and how can rules be amended? Nipping conflict in the bud internally and early seems the answer in most cases. 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 MoreGreen grub 3 min readClimate change is top of mind thanks to environmental activists like Greta Thunberg making fun of politicians’ lack of action. Of course, the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) has also done much to shine a spotlight on the big issues. Read MoreMaking it through the medical aid renewal season 2 min readAccording to research by Sirago Underwriting Managers, private health costs from 2000 to 2012 doubled in real terms, and the cost trends point to them doubling again by 2028. 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 MoreCreating inclusive workplaces 3 min readWorking from home has become popular, but there are some jobs – particularly when it comes to security or managing an estate – that can’t always be done remotely. 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 MoreWhy green is the new gold 2 min readGreenfield spaces should be an essential factor when planning a development – not only because they are good for the environment, but because they add financial value. Read MoreWho’s guarding the guards? 2 min readOne of the victims of a recent triple homicide in Georgia, USA, was the director of golf at Pinetree Country Club. Pro golfer Gene Siller was shot when arriving ‘in the wrong place at the wrong time’ to ascertain why a suspect vehicle was parked on the 10th green. 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 MoreMedical needs in Mauritius 3 min readThe majority of healthcare in Mauritius is publically funded and expats can access most in-patient services in one of five regional and two district hospitals spread across the island. In general, Mauritanian healthcare is of a relatively high standard but even so, private healthcare is quickly becoming an option of choice for locals as well as expats. Read MoreThe colours in fashion for 2022 2 min readGetting the right paint for a room can have a great impact on our emotions and general well-being. We’re spending more time at home now, so it’s important that we live and work in spaces we are comfortable in and want to spend more time in. But what are the colour trends for 2022? Read MoreNew prestigious development ZomerWind to be completed in November 2022 with 157 new homes 2 min readGenesis Projects are announcing the construction of a new development, ZomerWind, in the prestigious Groot Phesantekraal Estate in Durbanville, Cape Town. Read MoreState vs. private healthcare in Portugal, Mauritius, or Cyprus 3 min readSome of the most popular countries to move to include Portugal, Mauritius, and Cyprus. According to a global survey conducted by money.co.uk, South Africans want to retire to places closer to home and top of the list is Mauritius, followed by less expensive European countries like Portugal. Read MoreSouth African housing market 2022 3 min readRecord low interest rates have given people the confidence to invest in property. According to data from BetterBond, 70% of its homebuyer applications consisted of first-time buyers over the last 18 months. Read MoreNot so wonderful wildlife 2 min readWe have a lot of wildlife in South Africa and nowadays it’s not uncommon to see grazing zebra, springbok, and impala on residential estates such as Mount Kenya Wildlife Estate, Goose Valley Golf Estate and Kingswood Golf Estate to name but a few. Read MorePets on planes 2 min readIf you wanted to take Fido or Fluffy abroad, you would typically pay for your pet to be transported within a special pressurised compartment in the hold of a plane. But did you know you could also take your pet with you on the plane, like additional baggage? Read More5 Savvy shopping tips for Black Friday 3 min readThis year, Black Friday falls on 26 November. For those of you still unfamiliar with the concept, Black Friday is an American colloquial term for the Friday following Thanksgiving Day. Read MoreSummer’s colours usher in the zest of sunny days 2 min readAs we step into Summer, there is buzzing anticipation of hot, balmy days and excitement for summer vacations. Plascon has created its latest Summer colour palette – High Frequency – to encapsulate this optimistic energy. 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 MoreThe tax benefits of moving to Mauritius and Cyprus as compared with South Africa 3 min readJust two years ago the International Monetary Fund (IMF) declared in a report that South Africans live in one of the 10 most heavily taxed countries in the world (tax-to-GDP ratio). Back in 2019, the report highlighted that personal income taxes had increased by 125% in just ten years. 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 MoreCome Home to Blair Atholl 2 min readClose to Lanseria Airport and just a short drive from the greater Gauteng metropolis, Blair Atholl offers quintessential country living, with plentiful amenities for all the family. Demand for properties on the estate has risen dramatically since the start of the pandemic as South Africans continue hunting for unique living experiences while working remotely. 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 MoreBetter Prospects for the SA Economy 5 min readInvestors should try to ignore the remaining short-term noise and risks around infections, lockdowns, unrest and last year’s weak economic growth and look toward the medium to longer term. When investing – especially for future wealth or retirement – the short term becomes less important, as we all should invest for longer term returns. 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 MoreTaking advantage of the UK’s seasonal work visa 3 min readAs a result of the pandemic, early retirement, and Brexit there are certain sectors within the UK, such as logistics, hospitality and farming that are crying out for workers to join them regardless of background and experience. Read MoreHOA in Action 3 min readThe golf course at Kingswood, like the rest of George and surrounds, was inundated with heavy downpours lashing the district in the final month of winter. This necessitated remedial action on certain sections of the course. Read MoreMeet the Trustees 6 min readAmong the trustees elected by proxy during an annual general meeting (AGM) on October 11 emerged three new faces, while one old hand in the estate’s management history continues to carry forth the baton. Read MoreKingswood HOA: Acquisition of Kingswood Gatehouse now a done deal 4 min readThe morning of October 11 was a momentous occasion in the history of Kingswood Golf Estate, as it marked the culmination of a negotiation process spanning more than a year. During that Monday’s AGM, overwhelming support was received by the Kingswood HOA (Homeowners’ Association) members to proceed with the acquisition of the Gatehouse building. Read MoreKingswood Golf: Let the Sunshine in! 4 min readWhen the Kingswood Golf Operations (KGO) team heard just five weeks before that they would be hosting the Sunshine Senior Tour on October 13 and 14, they all pitched in for the estate’s very first professional event. Read MoreLocal ‘n lekker: Yuppie Gift Baskets – Christine Maree 3 min readWhen meeting Christine Maree at her Yuppie Gift Baskets (YGB) warehouse in George Industria, the immediate effect is of a real-life trompe l’oeil: does she appear smaller against the backdrop of her large business premises, or is it the other way ‘round? 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 MoreHow to reduce the stress of moving abroad 3 min readStudies have shown that moving house can be one of the most stressful things you can ever do – moving to another country with furniture, family and pets in tow will surely add to the stress. Few of us take stock of our mental state during such a time. Read MoreTop tax questions answered 3 min readEmigration is, unfortunately, something that many South Africans are considering at present. There is a myriad of reasons why many leave South Africa, but many blame the crime, lack of safety and rolling blackouts for feeling the need to seek pastures new. Read MorePlanning a lavish Christmas? 3 min readTraditionally, people spend more in the build up to Christmas – not only on gifts but on holiday expenses and eating out. Read MoreControlling Covid over Christmas 3 min readSouth Africa currently has just under 10 million fully vaccinated people and counting. But there are still many people that aren’t vaccinated. Vaccinations don’t prevent people from getting Covid but they and the most vulnerable immunocompromised may still get a nasty version of Covid-19. 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 MoreYour Journey to Portugal – A View on Property Options < 1 min readOn the Ist of January 2022 the Golden Visa Program that is currently available in Portugal will undergo changes, one of these changes will place restrictions on the areas that you can invest in and still qualify for the benefits of the Golden Visa. 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 MoreKnowing the ABCs of DIY investing 3 min readMost people don’t have enough time to do fun things in life let alone enough time manage their investment portfolio to research stocks and shares, keep an eye on their trajectory and pour through company announcements and analyst projections. 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 MoreMake extra money from your spare room 3 min readSince the coronavirus pandemic, working from home has now become an everyday part of life but it has created challenges for community housing schemes like residential estates and the homeowners’ associations that manage them. If you’re thinking of starting up a side hustle from your spare room, or setting up your business in your garage, make sure you follow these steps first. 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 MoreWild matters 3 min readMany estate managers already deal with game on site or envisage acquiring animals to attract potential buyers and add to the estate-living experience. Read MoreBright Light Solar Energy and Utility solution includes the capital costs < 1 min readEstate Living and Kevin Shames Director at Bright Light Solar discusses their offering to property developer around renewable energy solution. In additional to innovative products, the solution includes financing the capital costs for the supply and installation of the systems, metering and the long term maintenance of the system. 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 MoreWhat’s on Jan’s braai this Heritage Month? 3 min readQualified accountant Jan Scannell sizzled onto the scene as ‘Jan Braai’ in 2005, when he quit his job in financial services to take on a high-profile media career. Having published books and presented TV shows, Jan says his ambition will always be bringing Mzansi citizens together over a braai. Read MoreEquine luxury 2 min readVal de Vie in the Cape Winelands recently scooped the award for the Best Leisure Development in the World at the 2021 International Property Awards, retaining its top position yet again. Read MoreCyber security 3 min readOnce considered futuristic, smart homes and offices are now a reality. We seem to never have enough new tech, with products added daily to improve efficiency and convenience. 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 MoreTrouble with tenders? 3 min readGetting a government tender is not always easy – particularly if you’re the new kid on the block. Read MoreFive reasons why you need to be inducted into your role as a director or trustee of a homeowners association or body corporate 2 min readWhen agreeing to serve on a board of a community scheme consider that this is the same as if you were serving on any board of any business entity. So often do members of an association serving a residential community agree to serve without considering the knowledge, skills, and experience that you will need to perform this role. Read MoreARC induction programme brings online solutions to HOA leaders 3 min readEstablished in 2008 to proactively support the volunteers and/or members of Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Bodies Corporate and their management teams to establish, maintain and enhance the value of properties and the lifestyles of their residents, the Association of Residential Communities (ARC) works to support and optimise estate leadership writes Jeff Gilmour, President of ARC. 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 MoreCan you open a foreign bank account while living in South Africa? 3 min readIn the past, banks required you to physically reside in the country where you wanted to open an account, but that’s no longer always a requirement. Read MoreAliens go home! 3 min readStringent regulations are in place to ensure that private landowners have detailed plans to eradicate alien vegetation – primarily at their personal cost, albeit supported by programmes providing access to assistance and information. Read MoreHotel Quarantine – what you need to know 3 min readNarrowing down where you, as a South African, can travel internationally with few restrictions is still a minefield. Even though millions have been vaccinated, many countries are still at different stages of lockdown while others are lifting restrictions. 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 MoreBank on it: Smart IDs and passports branched out 3 min readThe rollout for banks managing and issuing Smart IDs and passports has gone slowly, with branches offering this service located primarily in the country’s major metros. Read More6 Common reasons home insurance claims get rejected 3 min readWhen our homes get damaged or burgled it’s often assumed that most insurance claims be approved and paid. But not all claims are upheld, and many homeowners are left out of pocket after realising too late that the bill worth thousands of rands is one for them to cover. Read MoreIs marketing your estate on Netflix worth it? 3 min readLuxury estates are typically promoted through glossy brochures and flashy websites, but San Lameer went one step further and got featured on Netflix. Read MoreUnlocking cheap credit from your home 3 min readA mortgage – in particular an access bond – is no longer just a facility that lets you buy a home. It can be used as an effective tool to save money and can also help you out when you get into trouble financially. Read MoreShould your child study at a South African university or apply abroad? 3 min readThere are around 12,000 South African students studying abroad and that number is steadily rising. This, says admission consulting company Crimson Education, is despite the complexities of applying abroad. Read MoreKitchen Confidential with Matteo Battaini 3 min readMatteo Battaini comes from a long line of Italian epicureans and cut his teeth in the meat-curing businesses with his uncle, Dario Soresi, of famous cheese and meat manufacturers Mastro Dario. Read MoreNew tech to disinfect 3 min readLocal authorities across the land are rolling out programmes to disinfect areas frequented by the general public, but these venues don’t include privately-owned properties where multiple inhabitants converge in shared spaces. Read on if you care about safety in your estate’s high-use zones… 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 MoreOwn a mall instead of a house 3 min readListed property investments have not always been a favourite asset class among investors. Record high vacancies have plagued the industry and this has been exacerbated by the pandemic as some more tenants get displaced or cancel their contracts. Read MoreAre you prepared for POPI? 3 min readIn case you missed it, South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) took effect on July 1, 2020 and enforcement began exactly a year later, on July 1, 2021. Read MoreCounting the cost of civil unrest 3 min readThis month saw civil unrest in parts of the country shattering thousands of South Africans’ lives. Many people were arrested, and dozens killed or injured in rioting that has swept the country. 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 MoreManaging your money 3 min readMany South Africans are struggling to make ends meet in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, lockdown restrictions, curfews and civil unrest. 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 MoreChristmas in July 4 min readWinter holidays in South Africa has this year yielded scant cause for jollifications, as the country hunkers down to abide by Level 4 restrictions. But this should not deter you from planning some merriness – especially as July 25, celebrated as ‘Christmas in July’, draws near. 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 MoreI’m in my 30’s – why am I sleeping so badly? 6 min readIt’s no revelation that our modern lives are affecting our sleep, and badly. The Sleep Foundation reports that between 10% and 30% of adults struggle with chronic insomnia – and sadly, ‘chronic’ means long and unabating periods of disorder. It’s staggering to think that up to a third of adults sleep badly or not really at all. But it’s also no surprise to hear this; modern life is forcing us to forego the value of our sleep and it is resulting in a rise in sleep disorders. Read MoreWhat matters in a mattress? 4 min readYour bed is the unsung hero of modern life – it’s there for your every day literally supporting you while you sleep. And sometimes it feels like it’s the only sure-fire thing you can rely on. Read MoreAnnual General Meetings 2 min readAGMs loom large over every homeowner association’s calendar. Thanks to their innate capacity to connect home owners with their associations, the AGM is an essential vehicle for home owners to scrutinise the decision-making of boards and ensure good governance, and for boards to communicate a cohesive vision for the future. Read MoreOn the cards 2021/2022 3 min readARC has grown exponentially since being formed on 1 April 2008, and has continued to enhance its offering to all members of the residential community industry. Read MoreThe Residential Communities Council (RCC) Update 2 min readFollowing discussions at ARC Chapter meetings, and at recent ARC Annual Conferences, a majority of ARC members expressed the need for an industry representative body, an NPC that will be governed by industry members, and managed operationally by the Association of Residential Communities (ARC). Read MoreMind your communication and own your data 3 min readWho says what, to whom and where? Communication has never been more far-reaching, available and sometimes untameable. Here below we discuss how quickly things are changing in the way we communicate, valuable aspects to consider moving forward, and a few tips on how to vet new platforms in order to keep a handle on online dialogue. Read MoreServest Landscaping Value Proposition 4 min readSince our inception in South Africa in 1997, we have grown from a provider of specialist soft services into a leading integrated facilities management company. In 2015, the landmark black empowerment transaction, which involved Kagiso Holdings acquiring 51% of Servest, also positioned us as one of the largest majority black-owned integrated facilities management companies in Africa. Read MoreUrban Tinkering 2 min readWe are in the midst of a rapid rise in urbanism. Since 1900, the global urban population has increased from 200 million to 3.9 billion in 2014. In 2050, this figure is expected to reach 6.4 billion. Cities are experiencing the impacts of climate change more frequently and more intensely. Conventional urban infrastructure and landscape design emphasised single-use structures and facilities. Read MoreExecutive summary of Public Policies 5 min readARC has developed a range of policies that all community associations are encouraged to use as a basis for implementing policies within their communities. A summary of these follows. For a full description, please contact jeff@hoasupport.co.za. 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 MoreFacing the future – Building resilience in your Estate 4 min read2020/2021 has seen an acceleration in the rate of change in our lives. These changes have been felt across all sectors of society, and in many aspects of community living. As we settle in to the ‘new normal’ this article explores a few current issues, and offers some practical guidance to assist your estate to equip itself to meet future challenges. Read MoreThe Great Debate: Is a Bed a Good Investment? 5 min readThroughout the ages humans have attached value to many different things, from salt in ancient Rome to diamonds today. And even in our modern times, what we deem valuable still seems rooted in the tangible – something we can see, feel, taste or touch. Read MoreReal Value comes from Good Sleep 3 min readEverybody is offering the promise of quality nowadays, and with that, a product that they say is the answer to all your problems. We don’t think a promise is enough, so instead we’ll give you value that’s real, not just in money terms but in quality of life. We’re keeping things simple by offering you what’s truly valuable – good sleep. 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 MoreExploring Rodrigues 4 min readThe tiny tropical island of Rodrigues lies some 560 kilometres to the northeast of its big sister, Mauritius. A rugged volcanic outcrop, with a mountainous central ridge and deep valleys and ravines, it is surrounded by coral reefs, which enclose a wide, shallow lagoon twice its size. Read MoreCyprus beaches 2 min readIf you’re thinking of moving to a gorgeous Mediterranean island, the chances are you’ll want to spend some time on the beach. So you’ll be pleased to hear that Cyprus has the cleanest beaches in Europe. 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 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 More
