Growing demand for property in Rietfontein is partly evident in the increasing numbers of intensive accommodation developments emerging in the suburb.
Complex-style developments which are a direct response to the increasing demand for secure, affordable and centrally situated accommodation have come up in the area lately, says property consultant Robin van der Walt of Dormehl Phalane Property Group.
These can be seen in Frates Street and in Ben Swart Street on the corner of 21st Avenue, says Van der Walt, citing only a few examples of an emergent trend which she says many analysts believe will become more pronounced.
“Sectional titles make up about 30% of total market stock in Rietfontein, which is quite low compared to other areas of the Moot. This is about to change as developers respond to demand patterns,” says Van der Walt.
Jakaranda Centre is being revamped. A number of big retail outlets will be coming on board. This is welcome as the centre experienced a decline for a few years. - Robin van der Walt, Property Consultant, Dormehl Phalane Property Group
Picture: Supplied
Rietfontein will always be popular owing to its centrality in an area with good schools. She mentions as Rietfontein-Noord Primary, Queenswood Christian School and HTS John Vorster as some of the popular schools instrumental in many parents’ decisions to settle in the suburb.
Rietfontein’s ideal positioning and apparent convenience makes it a sought-after suburb, a magnet for families with children of school-going age and their parents who can commute from here with ease to centres of work.
Van der Walt says the availability of a number of public parks also increases the suburb’s standing on the family-friendly scorecard. She also cites the ease with which residents with properties close to Wonderboom Nature Reserve can walk through the recreational facility.
“Rietfontein is in the centre of the Moot area. It is close to hospitals, main access and arterial routes as well as shopping centres,” says Van der Walt, adding that it is no surprise that Rietfontein continually records the highest sales records in the Moot.
This has attracted the attention of investors, some of whom buy properties to let,because of the consistent and rising demand.
It is a factor shored up by Rietfontein’s proximity to places such as the University of Pretoria and medical facilities and other nearby work centres for interns and specialists who choose to reside here.
For a letting owner, uninterrupted rental income is assured. Van der Walt says Rietfontein is ideal for businesses such as guest houses and reports quite a number operating in the area, which should come as no surprise as Rietfontein enjoys proximity to tourist attractions and landmarks, including the Union Buildings, Loftus Versfeld and shopping facilities.
Van der Walt says: “Jakaranda Centre is being revamped. There are a number of big retail outlets that will be coming on board. This is welcome as the centre experienced a decline for a few years.”
Barbara Lourens’s favourite places and things to do
I live in nearby Waverley, but am well-versed with what happens in Rietfontein and the whole of the Moot, which is generally safe. The area has lots of schools and enjoys easy access via the nearby N1 to Centurion and Montana. There are three convenient shopping centres: Jakaranda Centre, Queens Corner and the new Queenswood Quarter. - Barbara Lourens, resident
Picture: Supplied
1 Oppiplaas Restaurant
Affordable steaks and seafood. Terblanche Street and Codonia Avenue, Villieria. 0123332117
2 Ocean Basket
I order whatever catches my fancy. The fish is always good. 1 Waverley Plaza, Hertzog Street, Villieria. 0123324578
3 Cappuccino
With inside and outside seating. Delicious pizza. Well worth a visit. 8, Waverley Plaza, Hertzog Street, Villieria. 0123220344
Oppiplaas Restaurant. Picture: John Makoni
4 Brewers.BBQ
Affordable, great atmosphere, excellent service. Rietfontein Pavilion Centre, Frates Road, Rietfontein. 0123299712
5 Adler Cuisine German Family Buffet Restaurant
Outside seating and cosy. Rietfontein Pavilion Centre, Frates Street and 16th Avenue, Rietfontein. 0825568856
6 The Mulberry Tree
All you can eat in a cosy and casual atmosphere. 645 Michael Brink Street, Rietfontein. 0123310829