Cranbrook Vale is a small suburb just off Old Johannesburg Road that neighbours Hennopspark and is adjacent to Ho
ërskool Zwartkop in Centurion. Not much realty activity happens in this hidden gem of a neighbourhood with its winding and quiet streets.
Mariandl Pelser of Seeff Centurion says that no new property registrations took place in Cranbrook Vale in the past year, a suburb she describes as close-knit and a place where most of the residents look out for each other – typical of most little neighbourhoods with a villagey feel.
“Cranbrook Vale is a small suburb and so is exclusive. It is rare for a house to go on sale and they are sought after. “The area is close to schools and the owners tend to hold on to their properties because their children are still in the local schools,” says Pelser.
Cranbrook Vale is a well-maintained area with proud owners who keep their gardens and exteriors neat. - Mariandl Pelser, estate agent, Seeff Centurion
Picture: Supplied
Properties that do go on the market don’t linger long, provided they’re priced according to market value. This means prospective buyers should not wait, should a property come on to the market, as chances are it will be snapped up.
“Cranbrook Vale prices are steadily appreciating, making it good for a long-term investment,” she observes. There have been no notable new developments or projects in the area in recent years, says Pelser. Cranbrook Vale is similar to Hennopspark and has been around for about the same time.
The homes are older and range in age from fairly recent and modern to older properties of about 50 years. “Since it is an established area, maintenance work must be done regularly and some owners have upgraded their properties for a bit more of a modern look. Cranbrook Vale is a well-maintained area with proud owners who keep their gardens and exteriors neat.”
The residents (who number about 50) consist mainly of folk with school-going children and are mostly aged between 36 and 49 (60%). Mature (50-64 years old) owners make up 35% and the rest are pensioners.
Lightstone statistics show there’s virtually no one under 36 years registered as a property owner in the suburb. Pelser also refers to Lightstone data indicating average household income at between R65 000 and R80 000.
If suburbs were to be ranked on liveability indices such as cities, Cranbrook Vale would trump many areas for the convenience and ease of life on offer.
There are three service stations within a 1km radius, the farthest being 840m away; also within a radius of 1km are two medical facilities, a police station, three schools (one public, the others private) and two convenience malls.
In addition, just over 2km away, are the Centurion Gautrain station, Centurion Mall, two tertiary institutions and a car rental service. Zwartkop Ext 7 is a tad more expensive, while Clubview is a more affordable suburb.
Janica Swanepoel’s favourite places and things to do
The area is well situated, close to Centurion CBD and is in an easily accessible location, near the Old Johannesburg Road and highways. It’s also relatively safe and the people are friendly. There are lots of good schools in the vicinity, making it convenient for families.
- Janica Swanepoel, resident Picture: Supplied
1 Blackwoods Pub
It’s a very lively place that runs great specials and serves good food as well as excellent entertainment. It’s also child-friendly – there’s a play area for kids. Hennopsview Centre, Blackwood Road, Hennopspark. 012 654 0969
Blackwoods Pub is a lively place. Picture: Supplied
2 Planet Fitness
They offer proper packages and are very professional. It’s such an ideal and convenient place to work out. Hennopsview Centre, Blackwood Road, Hennopspark. 012 654 0339
3 Centurion Ice Cream and Sweets
That’s the nearest and most suitable place to take the kids for a treat. They absolutely love it. Galway Centre, Kilkenny Road, Bronberrick. 012 654 2420
4 Baking Bonanza
They stock an array of products catering for baking and chocolate-making, from baking ingredients to premixes, you name it. Galway Centre, 10-11, Galway Avenue, Hennopspark. 012 660 3688
5 Hemingway’s Restaurant and Wine Cellar
Great cocktails, cosy, opens until fairly late. 245 End Street, Clubview. 012 660 3300 6 More Restaurant Breakfast, late-night food, outdoor seating. 128 Golf Avenue, Clubview. 012 654 0507