Ongoing demand for secure, luxury living drives Stellenbosch’s sectional title market
Sectional title property prices in the university town of Stellenbosch continue to show steady growth, fuelled by the ongoing demand for lock-up-and-go living close to campus and the many amenities in town. In the past year, these prices have increased by 6.3%, well above the national average of 4.31%, and Stellenbosch’s most centrally located, mixed-use development – Andringa Walk – enjoyed a substantial price inflation of 14% between 2017 and 2018.
“Andringa Walk is a contemporary development offering privacy and exclusivity in the heart of Stellenbosch. With a prime location above the Eikestad Mall, it embodies a vibrant, contemporary lifestyle that appeals to students and professionals who work in the area,” says Louise Varga, Pam Golding Properties area manager for Stellenbosch. Although Stellenbosch is a university town, its many attractions and proximity to Cape Town and the rest of the Winelands make it a popular tourist destination as well. “This means that lock-up-and-go accommodation, such as the bespoke apartments at Andringa Walk, are always in demand – even as short-let accommodation during the holiday season.”
Suzette Kruger, Pam Golding Properties agent for Stellenbosch, says: “There’s something magical about this particular development. Perhaps it is that ‘Alice in Wonderland’ moment, when the doors of the lift open, and you are welcomed into a lush garden complete with oak trees and acorn sculptures.” Despite being situated in a commercial hub, there are reminders throughout the building that one is still in leafy Stellenbosch. Each level has its own foyer and lounge area, and a landscaped communal garden with trees and artistic features.
The open-plan apartments, ranging from 31m2 studios to larger two and three bedroom units, come with either a balcony or a patio offering a bird’s-eye view of the tree-lined campus and the historical buildings below. Andringa Walk may be set on one of Stellenbosch’s original streets, widened by the wheels of the wagons that used to pass through there, but this apartment block offers the ultimate in contemporary, luxury living.
Each unit has modern fittings, and biometric access and CCTV surveillance are some of the state-of-the-art security features. A 24-hour concierge desk adds value, especially if the apartment is being used for short or holiday rentals. There is also the luxury of a daily on-site cleaning team. Andringa Walk offers exclusive basement parking – a considerable bonus in this part of town where parking is a sought-after commodity. There are also bicycle racks and storage rooms to let.
“With its reputation as the most conveniently located and secure residential block in Stellenbosch, apartments in Andringa Walk are always sought after. Many of the buyers are parents looking for a well-positioned unit that will provide the security and convenience students need. Andringa Walk’s capital growth also offers a considerable return on investment,” says Vanessa Johnson, Pam Golding Properties agent for Stellenbosch. As a mixed-use development, offering accommodation as well as access to retail and other amenities, Andringa Walk caters for the live-work-play property trend that is gaining momentum. “Buyers want to live in an inclusive area that caters for all their needs,” says Johnson.
While Andringa Walk’s apartments have been designed to provide privacy and tranquility, the prime location of the block allows residents to experience the energy and ambience of living in town. The area throngs with students and visitors enjoying the many shops, restaurants, cinemas and nightspots that are in the mall and within walking distance. Residents also have access to the Virgin Active Gym in the mall, and the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport and Coetzenburg Sports Centre are nearby.
Stellenbosch’s award-winning wine farms are well-known around the world, but the region also offers a host of other attractions, including spectacular trail and mountain biking routes on the surrounding mountains, many art galleries and antique shops, plenty of museums and places of historical interest and some of the best restaurants in the Cape. Stellenbosch is also no longer synonymous only with wine – it is fast establishing a reputation for producing fine gins and craft beers as well.
With so much on offer, all within walking distance or a short drive of Stellenbosch’s most well-located mixed-use development, apartments in Andringa Walk are hard to come by. Buyers are willing to pay premium prices for the superlative features it provides. Pam Golding Properties has listed one bedroom apartments, starting at R3.12 million, while the two-bedroom units range from R3.85 million to R4.6 million and the penthouse is R6.8 million. “This is an excellent opportunity to be a part of the vibe of Stellenbosch, and to own a home in one of its most sought-after residential developments,” says Johnson.
For more information about buying or renting in Andringa Walk, contact Vanessa Johnson, Pam Golding Properties sales agent: 082 588 7007 or Suzette Kruger, Pam Golding Properties rental agent: 061 544 0551