Newlands is tipped to bounce back and perform better than it currently is, sales-wise, once the dark cloud of a repressed economy lifts and the general outlook for the country improves.
This is the view of Johalet Jonker, area specialist agent for Seeff Pretoria East in Newlands.
She reports a downturn in sales volumes in 2019 compared to last year. She estimated that the 40 registrations for the area so far this year, approximate to about half of the 2018 total, when 80 units were moved.
The market has taken a positive turn in the past couple of months, and we’re hoping to conclude more registrations before the end of 2019. - Johalet Jonker, estate agent, Seeff Pretoria East
Picture: Supplied
“With that in mind, the market has taken a positive turn in the past couple of months, and we’re hoping to conclude more registrations before the end of 2019,” says Jonker.
“Unfortunately the impact of new developments in and around the area has been overshadowed by the negative impact of this year’s political and economic factors, which has caused a downward spiral in the property market.”
However, Newlands is well located in Pretoria East and within walking distance of landmarks such as Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Menlyn Maine and Menlyn Retail Park.
The N1 highway is five minutes from the suburb with well-regarded schools such as Laerskool Constantiapark, Hatfield Christian School, Pro-Arte Alphen Park and The Glen High School nearby.
This makes it a sought-after area by families seeking to be close to top institutions of learning for their children.
Part of Newlands’s appeal is that it is an older, more established suburb with little vacant space for residential developments, meaning existing properties can be expected to retain values.
This also makes the area ideal for investment purposes when one looks at the increasing numbers of mainly young people coming to work in the area in sectors including the services industry and the corporate market.
“Newlands has more sectional title homes than free-standing houses as these make up only 42% of available market stock,” says Jonker.
As projected housing patterns point to a high densification set-up, typical of most highly sought-after neighbourhoods, one can expect the number of freehold homes to shrink even further in the coming years.
Although most of the houses are older with finishes which may be considered outdated, new homeowners are doing their bit to modernise their properties and carrying out far-reaching renovations, according to Jonker.
Should you be in the market for a home in this neighbourhood, expect to fork out no more than R3million to R3.5m for the most upmarket property, says Jonker.
She reports high demand for properties located in the boomed New Kloof Security Village for the obvious better personal safety and security perception. “Invest in an area that has much to offer as location is not something any one can change.”
Jonker says Waterkloof Glen is comparatively pricier.
Enrico Andrione’s favourite places and things to do
The good thing about this neighbourhood is there’s a feeling of community. People generally look out for one another. It’s also close to main arteries for easy access to the highway to Joburg or to the north. We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to amenities, with main shopping centres such as Menlyn Park Shopping Centre and Menlyn Maine in the vicinity. - Enrico Andrione, resident
Picture: Supplied
1 Caraffa Ristorante
This is a family-oriented restaurant that’s a landmark in the area. It serves wholesome food in a lively atmosphere, specialising in pizzas and pastas. 46 Selati Street, Alphen Park. 012 346 3181
Caraffa Ristorante is a landmark in the area, serving pizzas and pasta. Picture: Supplied
2 Salsa Mexican Grill
Fabulous cuisine. Menlyn Maine, Waterkloof Glen. 012 682 0161
3 Prosopa Restaurant
They serve fabulous Greek Mediterranean cuisine in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The proprietor is a fantastic guy. 103 Club Avenue, Waterkloof Heights. 012 460 1663
4 Culture Club
This is a must-visit. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is also conveniently located for us. 12 16th Street, Hazelwood. 012 030 1343
5 Plaka
The food can be well-recommended and their service is also one of the best. Shop LF 96, Atterbury and Mante roads, Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Menlyn. 012 348 4903
6 Forti Grill and Bar
Excellent food, great atmosphere. Time Square, 209 Aramist Avenue, Menlyn. 012 003 6180