Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments most South Africans will ever make, yet many buyers underestimate how bond repayments should be planned in relation to income and lifestyle.
According to Antonie Goosen, principal and founder of Meridian Realty, careful planning at this stage not only safeguards financial stability but also ensures that homeownership remains a source of security rather than stress.
“Too often buyers look at the bond repayment in isolation and forget that it has to fit into the bigger picture of their lives,” says Goosen. “It’s not only about qualifying for a loan, but about living comfortably with it month after month.”
Why Centurion appeals to families
Centurion has become one of Gauteng’s most popular hubs for families thanks to its access to excellent schools and secure housing options, many within lifestyle estates.
Tiaan Pretorius, manager for Seeff Centurion, points out that the area offers a strong choice of both public and private schools, including Midstream, Trinityhouse, Southdowns, Amberfield, Curro Thatchfield, Abbotts College and SPARK Centurion. This variety continues to attract families seeking quality education close to home.
Pretorius says the appeal of these estates lies in their combination of secure living and quality schools for families.
Lifestyle estates in demand
Midstream estate
A flagship development, Midstream Estate offers a self-contained lifestyle with exceptional security and amenities that include a 9-hole golf course, hospital, shopping centres, schools and extensive sports facilities. Apartments and townhouses are priced from around R1.3 million to R4.5 million. And houses are priced from R3 million to R8 million (up to R20 million for premium homes)
Centurion golf estate
Centurion Golf Estate, home to a Peter Matkovich-designed golf course, provides a luxury lifestyle with a clubhouse, restaurant, tennis and squash courts, and parkland surroundings. Homes are priced from R2.8 million to R16 million.
Blue Valley Golf & Country Estate
Known for its Gary Player golf course, Blue Valley blends prestige with convenience, offering homes priced between R4 million - R8 million.
Copperleaf Golf Estate
Set on the former farm of golfing legend Ernie Els’ grandfather, Copperleaf offers spectacular views of the Magaliesberg Mountains along with an Ernie Els-designed course. Homes start at around R4 million up to R8 million
Zwartkop Golf Estate
A long-standing favourite, Zwartkop offers homes typically from R3.5 million to R4 million, with more affordable sectional titles also available.
Thatchfield provides a family-friendly lifestyle with its own 9-hole course, offering homes priced from R1.5 million to R4.5 million.
With its combination of excellent schools, strong security, and diverse estate living options, Centurion continues to attract families, professionals, and investors, says Pretorius.
But as Goosen notes, it’s essential to look beyond qualifying for a bond - buyers should ensure their repayments align with their income and lifestyle so that homeownership remains a source of comfort rather than financial pressure.
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