Saxonwold is a quiet suburb of large homes conveniently situated close to main centres and amenities in the northern suburbs and the Joburg central business district.
“Saxonwold is away from the noise. People mostly buy in Saxonwold for the size of the properties and because it’s a beautiful, tree-lined suburb close to the hub of Rosebank, the Joburg CBD, the M1, the Gautrain and excellent schools in neighbouring suburbs,” says Rufina Mausenbaum of Firzt Realty Company.
She says the bigger stands have large gardens which are well-suited for children of primary school age, who can be enrolled at any of the excellent schools in the neighbouring suburbs.
Saxonwold continues to
retain the man-made
forest of trees planted more
than 100 years ago. - Rufina Mausenbaum, Property professional, Firzt Realty Company
Picture: Supplied
These include public schools such as Saxonwold Primary and Parktown High School for Girls and private schools including St Katherine’s School, Pridwin Preparatory School, The Ridge School and Kingsmead College.
The suburb is also close to Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Netcare Park Lane Hospital, Netcare Milpark Hospital, Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, Netcare Rosebank Hospital and Life Brenthurst Clinic.
“With developments on the periphery, the inner roads have more appeal,” notes Mausenbaum. “Many Saxonwold residents can hear the lions roar at the Joburg Zoo.” Mausenbaum also ticks off the South African National Museum of Military History and Zoo Lake among the places of interest in the locality.
Except for Moyo’s at the Zoo Lake, there are no shops or restaurants in Saxonwold, reinforcing its status as a sought-after, quiet and peaceful suburb. The market stock mainly consists of older homes on 2 000m² stands suitable for renovation, says Mausenbaum, and there are a few sectional title units on the periphery.
A handful of properties are being developed for cluster living along arterial roads according to the suburb’s precinct plan. There are about 560 properties in the suburb. Although fewer properties may have changed hands in the past year or so, prices have remained steady.
Mausenbaum cites a record R27.5million paid for 0.8ha in 2016 as an indication of the high prices prime properties can fetch here. She advises buyers to get informed, educated guidance to consider all their options when finding their perfect match in Saxonwold as the buyer’s market allows for a substantial choice of available stock.
“Select a realtor who has a proven track record in the suburb of your choice, and trust their knowledge and up-to-date training relating to current banking criteria, new property legislature and prevailing market conditions will stand you in good stead,” she says.
Saxonwold was part of the historical Braamfontein farm and was mostly occupied by mine managers when it was declared a township in 1920. “Saxonwold continues to retain the man-made forest of trees planted more than 100 years ago,” says Mausenbaum.
Tessa Turvey’s favourite places and things to do
Saxonwold is an exceptionally convenient suburb in terms of access to Rosebank, the Gautrain as well as Joburg CBD. We’re trying to preserve the tree-lined streets as they add to the character of the area and retain the green history of Joburg. It is a family-oriented suburb. - Tessa Turvey, chairperson, Saxonwold and Parkwood Residents' Association (SAPRA)
Picture: Supplied
1 Zoo Lake
We’re busy upgrading at the moment in conjunction with Fran Haslam of the Zoo Lake Users Committee. It is one of the most beautiful flagship parks in Joburg and is filled with people from all areas. Suitable for picnics and family gatherings. Corner Jan Smuts Avenue and Westwold Street, Parkview. 0114831017
2 Croft & Co
Their morning coffees and breakfasts are delicious. It’s also fabulous for prego rolls in the evening and a casual catch-up with friends in a relaxed environment. 66 Tyrone Avenue, Parkview. 011 646 3634
Croft & Co serves delicious breakfasts. Picture: Supplied
3 Munch Café
It’s a delicious lunchtime treat in a nursery garden setting which gives an organic feel to the Rosebank CBD. 167 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown. 011 447 9061
4 Marble
This is on the top of the gallery in Rosebank for a beautiful view and special treat. Trumpet on Keyes, corner 19 Keyes and Jellicoe avenues, Rosebank. 011 594 5550
5 The Bolton Road/Jan Smuts Corner
There are a few good restaurants for the young and trendy. Nice vibe. Rosebank. 6 Park Café Great for coffee, cake or light lunch. Jan Smuts and Wells avenues, Parkwood. 011 447 0250