Buying in an Estate: Need-To-Know 101

Jordan Greenhalgh, Pam Golding Properties consultant for Pearl Valley & Val De Vie, has this advice for potential buyers.

1. Safety and security: Do your homework, contact the local SAPS and enquire about the estate’s incident history, examine the security strategy, spend and quality checks of the homeowners’ association. Ask to see the association’s rules and regulations, and the estate’s constitution.

2. The homeowners’ association: What are its cash reserves? Is there any history of special levies? Are there any long-term plans? Who are the trustees, and what is their contribution to the social needs of the area?

3. The developer: What is their track record? Are there any outstanding bank debts? Have all the promised improvements been done and have they been transferred to the homeowners’ association?

4. Property sales: Look at the estate’s capital growth/sales-price inflation history and the rental history of the estate. Are there any vacant stands and how many houses are available to rent?

5. Location: Consider which public services are available, such as schools, hospitals and healthcare facilities, amenities, and public transport.

6. Residents: Make coffee appointments with residents and gather as much as information as possible so you can make an informed decision.

This article was originally featured in IMAGINE. Visit pamgolding.co.za for more luxury listings.