There has been a marked increase in the number of buyers seeking top-end properties in Stellenbosch.

So says Pam Golding Properties’ (PGP) area manager for the town, Louise Varga, who says the level of interest in this segment of the market has been significantly higher this winter than it was during the same period in 2009. “Although winter is traditionally a quieter period for the Western Cape property market, PGP concluded 11 sales in the town during the months of June and July, to a total sales value of over R42m.”

Varga says the town is not just about quaint Cape Dutch cottages, student residences and family homes. “Many upcountry residents might be surprised to view the superb range of top-end homes on offer, including a number of luxury properties located within secure estates. Our recent sales have included two top-end properties sold to buyers who are relocating from Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, and we would not be surprised if the level of activity in this segment continues to grow as we head into spring.

“Word seems to be getting out that one can obtain outstanding homes with every conceivable luxury finish, for a fraction of the price one might pay in a major metropolitan area.”

Among PGP’s recent sales was an elegant homestead in Paradyskloof, situated on an unusually large erf of over 2,800sqm. The four-bedroomed home with guest cottage, pool and staff quarters was sold for R7,4m.

Two prime properties also changed hands at the De Zalze Winelands Golf Estate, situated on the outskirts of the town on the route to Somerset West. The prestigious estate totals 300ha in size, with the erven laid out in separate villages built among the golf greens, vineyards and orchards.

A pristine three-bedroomed home with magnificent mountain and green views, a wine cellar, pool and extensive outdoor entertainment area was sold for R8,5m. Another five-bedroomed home located on 680sqm the river’s edge, with equally spectacular views, sold for R11m (inclusive of VAT).

Veronica Venter, who heads up the Fine & Country branch in Stellenbosch, says there is something for everyone in Stellenbosch. “The attractive winelands town is home to a number of academic institutions which has created demand for student accommodation to suit. Quality student flats are leasing for R5k pm and are selling for R800k.

“At present, the most demand is stemming from buyers seeking family homes. Properties in this bracket are selling from around R3m and can be leased for between R15k and R20k.

PGP’s MD for the Boland and Overberg regions, Annien Borg, confirms that Stellenbosch continues to hold enormous appeal for a wide range of buyers. “These range from families drawn to its excellent schools, a world-class university, spacious homes and relaxed way of life, to upcountry buyers wanting to relocate to an area with a lower crime rate.

“Its immense scenic beauty, surrounded by mountains and rolling vineyards, is another huge draw card, particularly for those who love the outdoors and want to be able to enjoy an active lifestyle. And of course as the second oldest town in South Africa, it is full of national monuments and other historic buildings, making it very appealing to those who love antiques or renovating older homes.”

Venter says Stellenbosch has held its own despite the recession. “Proliferation of property choice, stronger risk appetite and the appealing lifestyle offered by the area are also strong contributing factors which has buoyed the area up over the past few years.” – Eugene Brink

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