What does secure estate living have to do with your children’s education?

ADVERTORIAL

The answer is: nothing – unless you are one of the thousands of South Africans researching and buying residential property in estates.

According to www.propertywheel.co.za, research conducted by Lightstone Property has shown an increase in purchasing activity in the estate market, especially in the Western Cape.

The data reveals that about R15bn worth of estate properties are traded about every quarter.

One of the main reasons listed by purchasers for buying in an estate is the obvious security factor. This is likely to remain the key motive, with the average household prioritising the safety of their family members when at home and play.

There is a secondary activator however, and that is towards estates that cater for lifestyle activities. In other words, a secure residential location that also allows for kids to cycle, play, run, and swim – all within the secure perimeter of an estate.

On the preference lists are: on-site activities, open landscapes that allow for walking, outdoor gym facilities and outdoor exercise and play.

Due to the growing popularity of this type of estate, which caters so fully for households with children, a new trend is on the rise as educational institutions recognise the opportunity to partner with estate developers to offer buyers preferential access for their children. Which adds a great benefit for parents who can skip the dreaded school-run, and their kids can walk to school with their friends in a safe environment.

This is the case at Somerset Lakes in Somerset West which has a Reddam House school on the estate property, meaning that residents of the Estate have the added benefit of having internationally recognised education on their doorstep. Children can walk or cycle to school, and this adds to the sense of community that a lifestyle estate offers families.

Approximately 6000 closed communities and estates exist in South Africa, translating into roughly 318 000 residential properties and an estimated total value of some R643 billion – according to research conducted by Pam Golding.

The popularity of the residential estate is constantly growing and indicates an increased demand for the comforts and security that this form of dwelling traditionally offers. This places buyers in the power seat, with their requirements for recreational activities and education for their children, increasingly becoming priorities for developers.