New Muckleneuk is a suburb of tremendous value and lots of potential, with a record dating back over a century. For someone buying an established grand home here, the renovation opportunities are endless and they can play a part in restoring a part of this neighbourhood to its former glory.
Muckleneuk is colloquial Scottish for a large corner or nook and the suburb was established after George Walker bought a portion of the farm Elandspoort – and named it after his family estate in Scotland.
One of its more notable attributes is that it is secluded but easily accessible.
“Most of the properties date back a number of years and there’s great opportunity for upgrading in this sought-after area,” says Corli van Heerden of Seeff Pretoria East.
Over the years the suburb has remained one of the most sought-after residential areas. Its
proximity to Unisa and the University of Pretoria as well as a number of top schools are assets. - Corli van Heerden, Seeff Pretoria East
Picture: Supplied
In the past 10 years, the average selling price of houses in New Mucleneuk has increased by 35%.
“We believe that this trend of growth will continue,” she adds.
Proximity to universities, main routes, shopping centres and other essential amenities makes New Muckleneuk a convenient address to base oneself at and consequently a proverbial evergreen for aspiring investors.
“Over the years, the suburb has remained one of the most sought-after residential areas in Pretoria. The proximity to Unisa and the University of Pretoria and a number of top schools in the region, as well as nearness to facilities such as a Gautrain terminal in Hatfield, have made New Muckleneuk popular with residents who do not wish to sit in the traffic for long travelling to these destinations,” says Van Heerden.
The convenience of having Brooklyn Design Square, Brooklyn Mall and other smaller shopping malls on your doorstep can also not be overestimated.
The suburb is within a 2km radius of the nearest police station in Brooklyn, a service station and Waterkloof Gardens Shopping Centre.
Statistics from Lightstone indicate that as many as 54% of new homeowners in the year ending September 2018 were aged between 18 and 35 years.
This confirms perceptions of the area as a place where young, active and outgoing professionals like to settle.
On the other hand, 50% of sellers over the same period were pensioners.
The area’s convenience appeal thus augurs well for long ownership periods; 43% of homeowners have owned their properties for 11 or more years, according to Lightstone data.
“Although the suburb is relatively small with only about 200 full-title houses and just over 200 sectional title properties, buyers who wish to avail themselves of these advantages will certainly find it worthwhile to invest in the area,” adds Van Heerden.
She recommends that potential buyers consider the surrounding suburbs when looking to make an investment in the neighbourhood:
“Compare with everything that is available, and make a sound financial decision based on your own needs.”
Property values here compare well with those for Lukasrand.
Suzanna Le Roux’s favourite places to eat and shop
I’m close to Bronberrick as I live in nearby Waterkloof which is adjacent to New Mucleneuk.
I’m originally from Cape Town and can recommend this area to anyone from the Mother City. It feels so secure that it seems like you’re in a gated community. The people are caring and look out for one another. The gym is just down the road and a coffee house a mere walk away. - Resident Suzanne le Roux
Picture: Supplied
1 Meet on Milner
It doubles up as a bar in the evenings and has a nice ambience. You just park in front of the shop and walk in. 378 Milner Street, Waterkloof. 083 627 8172
2 Kreme
It’s a pleasant restaurant offering lots of eating options. 283 Dey Street, New Muckleneuk. 012 346 4642
3 Brootjiehuis
It’s a good place to walk to and have a coffee or a shot of chocolate. 236 Bronkhorst Street, New Muckleneuk. 012 346 5753
Meet on Milner is both convenient and pleasant. Picture: John Makoni
4 Pizza eVino 4 Ever
It serve great pizzas and is conveniently situated. Waterkloof Centre, Cnr Main Avenue and Crown Lane, Waterkloof. 012 346 5119
5 Blue Crane Restaurant
Thatched restaurant with sundeck overlooking the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary. 156 Melk Street, New Muckleneuk. 012 460 7615
6 Capeesh
Italian restaurant serving pasta, pizzas and meat dishes. Fehrsen Street, Brooklyn. 012 346 1932