Bordeaux has pretty much weathered the storm and performed consistently sales-wise, despite the subdued property market which has resulted in many houses staying on the market for long periods.
“Bordeaux has been affected less than a lot of the more expensive areas. Even in the prevailing tough economic climate, the area is still sought-after and houses do not stay on the market for extended periods of time,” says Annette Kotzian of Annette Kotzian Real Estate. She attributes this popularity to Bordeaux’s ideal location in the northern suburbs and the perception that it is a relatively safe suburb with good security initiatives.
If you’re looking for a family home and your workplace is in Sandton you can still find
a house for around R2 million in a good area. - Annette Kotzian, Annette Kotzian Real Estate
Picture: Supplied
“It is is close to Sandton. If you’re looking for a family home and your workplace is in Sandton, you can still get a house for around R2 million in a good area.”
“The security is as good as it can get,” says Kotzian. She points out that the south of Bordeaux, below Republic Road, is enclosed and boomed off and after 9pm, there is one entrance to the area.
Kotzian also mentions the CCTV cameras in the southern section of the suburb as further proof of the premium security offered residents. “The northern area of Bordeaux is also set to be secured,” she says.
These are only two of numerous attributes that make Bordeaux a great suburb, according to Kotzian, who says the great spirit of community and popular landmarks and amenities contribute to a sense of belonging among residents.
“The residents are proud of their suburb. You will notice lots of communal places, such as pavements and the park, where upkeep is by the residents for the residents,” says Kotzian.
She says residents are willing to volunteer or contribute to initiatives to have the area well-kept, including recently mowing the grass in the park. “The park is a major attraction and a popular place to have children’s birthday parties. “You will also often see families taking walks with their children and dogs.”
The average family in the suburb is likely to be young, according to Kotzian, who cites Lightstone data saying 50% of buyers in the past year were between 18 and 35.
These young home buyers will find it convenient to be close to facilities such as the Future Nation and Kiddie Care Centre preschools and Kip McGrath Education Centre, which are within a 1km radius.
As children grow, there is a number of incentives to remain in the area, including proximity to tertiary institutions, such as Bradford College and International Pre-University College, and the fact upmarket and larger homes top out at around R3m, says Kotzian.
Bordeaux is the most affordable in the cluster of suburbs that includes Blairgowrie, Ferndale, Craighall, Willowild, Glenadrienne West, Lyme Park Ext 4, Hurlingham and Hurlingham Manor.
Andrew Mills’s favourite places and things to do
Living in Bordeaux is convenient. There are shopping centres minutes away, including Blairgowrie Shopping Centre, Hyde Park Corner, Sandton City and Canterbury Crossing and two service stations on the outskirts. The suburb has lush parks and a sport club. There is an
active community forum and the area is well-maintained. - Andrew Mills, resident
Picture: Supplied
1 Bordeaux Park
It’s expansive and has playground equipment. It is a favourite gathering place for families and friends on weekends. Corner Main Street and Park Avenue, Bordeaux
2 Old Parks Sports Club
This is close to the park and is a hive of activity throughout the week. The restaurant and pub are fun and festive and good value. 1 Garden Road, Bordeaux. 011 789 3274
The bar at Old Park Sports Club. Picture: Karen Sandison/African News Agency (ANA)
3 Chaplain’s Grill
They are just down the road from the sports club and arguably have the best steaks in town. 61 Woodlands Avenue, Hurlingham, Sandton. 076 564 5979
4 Amici Pizzeria
It’s a perfect spot for a family pizza and a glass of wine. Woodlands Avenue, Hurlingham, Sandton. 011 326 3107
5 Patisserie Paris
This is a fabulous little bakery tucked away in nearby Blairgowrie and good for a scrumptious croissant and fresh coffee. 9 Mackay Avenue, Blairgowrie. 011 326 0913
6 Kafria
Casual, groups. 100 Bordeaux Drive, Randburg. 011 054 1620