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A great variety of market stock and lots of housing options make Robindale a good real estate bet at the moment. About 45 properties are on the market in the suburb. This at a time when FNB in Robindale reported a 9% reduction in actual sales and marketing price in the area, in a disclosure observers cite as giving prospective buyers lots of bargaining leeway.
“There is a wide variety of stock on the market at the moment. I would suggest you see as many homes as possible. You will instinctively feel which home is for you,” advises Charlene Meyer, director for Century 21 Randburg. She says: “Viewing all the properties that cater for your specific requirements also gives you a chance to compare apples with apples.”
So, getting the lay of the land reduces your chances of being short-changed. In addition, banks generally evaluate a property before issuing a bond, which protects against potentially overpriced deals. From one-bedroom sectionals at R660 000 to four-bedroom luxury homes topping the scale at R3.5 million, Robindale has something for everyone, says Meyer.
The beauty of Robindale is that there’s something for everyone, be it the choice of architectural style, traditional creature comforts of a home and, of course, budget. - Charlene Meyer, director, Century 21 Randburg.
Picture: Supplied
She reports a quick turnaround of less than two months on the sectionals and recommends these for young investors looking to get a foot on the property ladder. “They generally yield a good return on investment as the rental market is on the increase.” She reports the freeholds are taking unusually longer to sell, an average of four to six months, a trend she attributes to a combination of unrealistic seller prices and the subdued economy.
“For under R3m, you could find the home of your dreams. The average three-bedroom would be more in the region of R2.15m,” Meyer says. Most homes were built in the 1970s and 1980s and have since been renovated: “Should you be looking for old-school charm, Robindale has options.” The more exclusive locations include Esmeralda Crescent, according to Meyer.
She says: “The beauty of Robindale is that there’s something for everyone, be it the choice of architectural style, traditional creature comforts of a home and, of course, budget.” She believes existing property will hold on to current values owing to the lack of vacant stands for new developments. Many would argue that most people settle in Robindale for the schools.
Some residents move in as newlyweds and upgrade as their needs change and families grow, opting to remain until the children are through school. Laerskool Unika, Hoërskool Randburg, Robin Hills Primary and the private The Kings School are among a great selection in the suburb and vicinity.
“With the schools in the area there will always be a market for Robindale homes,” says Meyer. Lightstone stats show Robindale recorded a total of 45 year-to-date sales in October 2018. Meyer says Linden and Robin Acres have a similar set-up, including good schools.
Alex Linnell’s favourite places and things to do
Robindale is close to most centres in Joburg. It offers easy access to Fourways, Sandton, Rosebank and Linden, which has great food and makes for a good Saturday morning spent exploring local shops. There are many supermarkets and local government services on our doorstep. There are also top schools in the vicinity. - Alex Linnell, resident
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1 NGC
Their food is great and their wines are sourced locally as well as from New Zealand cellars as the wife in this spousal team is originally from that country. 75 Barkston Drive, Blairgowrie, Randburg. 079581 0725
2 Patisserie de Paris
This favourite local bakery is about 2km from Robindale. They open early and serve great coffee and pastries. I can recommend the eggs benedict served on their amazing croissants. 9 Mackay Avenue, Blairgowrie, Randburg. 011 326 0913
3 Delta Park
This large park offers a Saturday park-run, a medium challenge, with some good hills. It has great play areas for children and mountain bike trails. Four-legged furry friends are welcome. 77 Craighall Road, Victory Park, Randburg.
NGC Picture: Nhlanhla Phillips/African News Agency (ANA)
4 Namak Indian Restaurant
A great little takeaway spot that offers great tasting food. Our favourite is the pepper gobi starter. Riverview Centre, Corner Conrad Drive and Hillcrest Avenue, Blairgowrie. 011 326 3121
5 Braamfontein Spruit
A popular biking trail, 3km from Robindale. 6 Ferndale on Republic A re-imagining of the old Brightwater Commons. Republic Road, Ferndale, Randburg.