Doringkloof has a number of homes priced below R2 million available on the market, making this the ideal time for the intrepid investor or prospective homeowner to make a move and buy into a well-situated suburb that also offers many country lifestyle conveniences. Stefan Herholdt, an agent for Apple Property who works in the area and observes trends there, rates sales activity in Doringkloof at the moment as average overall with lower-priced homes selling well.
“There’s lots of property on the market but demand is down for properties priced over R1.8m,” he says. Herholdt’s comments echo those of a recently published property report which stated Centurion continues to be popular with buyers despite the difficult economic environment, owing to its strategic location between Johannesburg and Pretoria.
“Proximity to major routes like the N1, Botha Avenue, the R21 and Lenchen and Jean avenues makes for quicker travel times to and from work centres. Doringkloof is blessed with convenient and easy access,” says Herholdt, who points out the many access routes, dual-medium schools, shopping facilities and places of recreation such as Irene Farm, Irene Country Club and Irene Market as among the top attractions of the suburb.
Proximity to major routes the N1, Botha Avenue, the R21 and Lenchen and Jean avenues makes for quicker travel times to and from work centres. Doringkloof is blessed with convenient and easy access. – Stefan Herholdt, estate agent, Apple Property
Picture: Supplied
Along with neighbouring Irene, Doringkloof is benefiting from its ideal location to attract younger, more mobile residents and Herholdt says the suburb is getting progressively younger. “Currently, it’s a mixed demographic, from young professionals to older residents of all races and age groups. I see that the older generation is moving out and many more new younger people are coming in.”
His claim is corroborated by statistics from property data company Lightstone that indicate 49% of new buyers into the neighbourhood for the year ending August 2018 was aged between 18 and 35.
In addition to being an easily accessible “money saver”, Doringkloof boasts a good property value average, which is better than that for most areas in Centurion, says Herholdt. “It also has all the other amenities close by ensuring an investment in Doringkloof is always a good move as properties can be assured of appreciating.”
Herholdt notes Doringkloof is well-maintained and has an excellent community policing forum. The housing stock mostly consists of older but well-built freehold homes between 20 and 30 years old in a well-established neighbourhood with strong, supporting infrastructure.
The bulk of the properties occupies stands measuring about 1 000m², notes Herholdt. He adds: “Most houses have three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two garages, pool, staff quarters and entertainment areas.” Properties near the parks and Botha Avenue tend to be less sought after but these constitute a very small percentage.
Herholdt advises: “If you see the right property, make an offer at once as properties seldom stay on the market for long.” Property values for Doringkloof are slightly above those for areas such as Lyttelton Manor and Pierre van Ryneveld.
Jessica Viljoen’s favourite places and things to do
Irene is a beautiful older suburb with lovely trees and lots of nature. It is also centrally located. Everything is so near, including shops and hangouts. It takes only 15 minutes to
get to work in Menlo Park and my nearest shopping centre, Doringkloof Mall, is also
convenient. There are many great places to visit. - Resident Jessica Viljoen
Picture: Supplied
1 Café Delizioso
They’ve got good pizzas. Doringkloof has a business forum that gets together here once a month. Shop 82-83, Doringkloof Mall, 6 Aster Avenue, Doringkloof, Centurion. 012 667 2514
2 Irene Farm
It’s just a five-minute drive from the area and nice for people who want to take a break from the bustle and noise of the city. Nellmapius Road, Centurion. 012 667 4822
3 Irene Village Bistro
This bistro is also conveniently situated in Irene. It’s got a nice vibe. 5 Irene Shopping Centre, Main Road and Nellmapius Drive, Irene. 012 667 6169
Café Delizioso is good for breakfast, as well as pizzas. Picture: John Makoni
4 Salsa Mexican Grill
They stay open till late. Shop 21, Jean Crossing Shopping Centre, Centurion. 072 617 7667
5 Café de Café.
Breakfast outside seating. 85, Doringkloof Mall, Lupin Avenue and Aster Street, Doringkloof, Centurion. 012 667 1284