Property values have risen consistently in Blairgowrie for the past decade, and a property for sale usually moves within three months of listing, says Charlene Meyer, director for Century 21 Randburg.
“With the solid increase in property values, statistics show in 2009 the average sale price was just over R1 million and in 2019 the average is now R2m.”
This marked appreciation in values is owed to the suburb’s ideal location in Joburg’s Region B and the associated effect of its proximity to a cluster of such exclusive suburbs as Craighall, Hyde Park and Sandton, says Meyer.
Blairgowrie is set to hold on to its current property values as it is seen as an alternative to Linden, Victory Park, Hurlingham, Craighall and Sandton. - Charlene Meyer, director, Century 21 Randburg
Picture: Supplied
“Blairgowrie is set to hold on to its current property values as it is seen as an alternative to Linden, Victory Park, Hurlingham, Craighall and Sandton. The entry-level price is substantially lower but you have the same benefits in location,” says Meyer.
Schools such as IR Griffiths, Blairgowrie Primary and Delta Park, a special needs institution, add to the value and convenience. As of last week, around 75 properties were on sale in Blairgowrie, says Meyer.
Of these, commercial properties averaged R4m, free-standing homes averaged R2m and exceptionally renovated homes were selling north of R3m.
She cites a five-bedroom property marked at R5.89m as poised to set a record price for Blairgowrie, should it reach its target price. Locations such as Conrad Drive are experiencing a boom in sales, especially from buyers looking for a work-from-home option that offers immense brand exposure on a main thoroughfare.
These developments are partly attributed to the continued gentrification of Blairgowrie, which is fast becoming a trendy suburb for young professionals and young families.
Meyer says ease of access to Delta Park, which allows residents to pursue an active lifestyle, is a factor. The majority ownership age range is from the early 20s to the mid-40s. Blairgowrie stands out for the huge investment potential it holds, says Meyer.
“The potential of these older homes must not be overlooked as you can make a great return on investment.” She adds that these homes generally sell for around R1.5m.
Delta Park is popular with cyclists and dog walkers. Picture: Karen Sandison/African News Agency (ANA)
Most properties have been renovated with garden cottages becoming a norm, and some put on the Airbnb market for extra income for owners, given Blairgowrie’s proximity to Sandton and other centres, says Meyer.
Garden cottage rents range from R6 500 to R8 500 a month, and freehold rents average at around R15 000 a month for a three-bedroom house. Meyer advises prospective buyers to contract a professional home inspection service since most homes are older.
Blairgowrie was previously part of Klipfontein farm and established around 1890. It was named after the town Blairgowrie and Rattray in Scotland. Bordeaux is slightly more affordable while Robindale is more expensive.
Hilda Butlion’s favourite places and things to do
I
’ve been a Blairgowrie resident for more than 50 years. When we moved here, our street was one lane. Now it’s a four-lane route. My late husband and I paid less than R100 on our bond back then. Blairgowrie is very convenient. We are surrounded by schools, doctors, shopping centres and restaurants. I like it here but I’m now selling my house because I’m lonely. - Hilda Butlion, resident
Picture: Supplied
1 J’s Diner
It’s a lovely Portuguese restaurant that serves very good food in a wonderful atmosphere. 64 Conrad Drive, Blairgowrie. 0117813401
2 Thunder Gun
They’ve got lovely steaks and are conveniently located. 281 Beyers Naude Drive and Lewisham Road, Blackheath. 0116787224
3 Cnr Café
You get anything and everything at this restaurant, whatever you feel like. Food is always good and beautifully presented. Buckingham and Rothesay avenues, Craighall Park. 0118802244
Cnr Café is one of Joburg’s most popular restaurants. Picture: Supplied
4 Cresta Shopping Mall
It usually takes less than five minutes to drive there so it’s convenient. There’s nothing you can get at Sandton City that you cannot get at Cresta. Beyers Naude Drive, Cresta, Randburg. 0116785306
5 Adventure Golf Randburg
Premier family entertainment venue. Brightwater Commons, Republic Road, Randburg. 0118864816 6 Hot Pot Curries Great cuisine. 136 Barkston Drive, Blairgowrie. 0117815198