Spacious homes on big stands are a constant feature of the established homes in Wespark and the rest of the suburban neighbourhoods to the west of Pretoria Central.
This alone showcases the value-for-money incentive that comes with buying a property in Wespark. “The freehold houses are spacious and the yards big.
These are good for larger and/or extended families. “There are also apartment blocks for smaller families, people just starting out on the property ladder and vacant stands if you want to build your own,” says Thapelo Kgoele, an estate agent with property company Century 21.
Wespark has “something for everyone”, says Kgoele, who explains that the bulk of market stock comprises freehold properties which were “built strong and spacious” and are ideal for accommodating a big family. “Most buyers who settle here pursue a settled lifestyle and typically stay for longer periods. Residents like the fact that Wespark is not unusually active,” says Kgoele.
The freehold houses are spacious and the gardens big. These are good for larger and/or extended families. - Thapelo Kgoele, estate agent, Century 21 Picture: Supplied
His assertion is corroborated by Lightstone data which shows around 65% of residents have owned their properties for 11 years or more. As for those just starting out, Wespark’s affordability is a strong attraction, with statistics from Lightstone showing 34% of recent buyers in the past year were aged between 18 and 35 years.
This demographic was the second biggest buying bloc, behind the middle-aged sector, which at 53% accounted for the bulk of home purchases. Wespark seems to be a much safer bet when compared to its closest neighbours, thanks to its rare combination of centrality of location, relatively good safety levels and affordability. Thanks to these and other factors, the suburb has performed consistently for the past year, says Kgoele, who points out that 28 sales have taken place in Wespark over the past 12 months.
“Wespark is close to Pretoria West Industrial and gives easy access to Pretoria Central,” says Kgoele.
“There are lots of schools in the area that keep children in a safe environment close to their homes.”
Shops, places of worship and hospitals are also close by in an area close to local and regional routes such as the R55 and WF Nkomo Street as well as the N4 to Rustenburg.
Kgoele says residents have shopping choices galore, including the local Wespark Shopping Centre, Quagga Centre to the east, Kwaggasrand Centre to the west and Pretoria Central.
Kgoele advises prospective home buyers to do their homework first and to get pre-qualified from a bond originator in order to get an idea of how much they can qualify for as affordability is of the essence in Wespark.
“Even the top bracket properties here are affordable,” says Kgoele. Property values here match those for Proclamation Hill and Kwaggasrand, while Laudium and Pretoria West are more affordable.
Thobeka Hashe’s favourite places and things to do
I moved to Wespark from Sunnyside in 2017. I needed a quieter place with lots of space for myself and my two children, who attend a school within walking distance of home. We’re also conveniently positioned close to the local Spar. WF Nkomo (formerly Church) Street is just down the road and convenient for catching public transport. - Thobeka Hashe, resident
Picture: Supplied
1 Quagga Centre
They have a gaming corner and my youngest son is always thrilled to be there. They also have a great selection of shops. WF Nkomo Street and Quagga Road, Pretoria West. 0123272295
2 Local Park
This park is off Middle Crescent in Kwaggasrand. It’s huge and a great place to take the children to play and kick a ball. Middle Crescent, Kwaggasrand
Local Park is perfect for child’s play. Picture: John Makoni
3 Public swimming pool
This is a popular hangout and you have to be there early as it fills up. It’s great for social gatherings and get-togethers. Van Dalsen Street, Wespark.
4 Little Slipper
It’s my favourite shop. They have comfortable footwear, especially for my little ones. Shop 38, Quagga Centre, WF Nkomo Street and Quagga Road, Pretoria West. 0870865130
5 Pilditch Stadium
Stadium and events arena. 1 Maltzan Street, Pretoria West, 0123272394 6 Pretoria Golf Course Established in 1894 and now legendary. Morkel Street, Philip Nel Park. 0123866836