Parkmore is a well-kept secret for those buyers looking for a cost-effective alternative to nearby Sandton.
About the area
Ask any young professional who travels a lot about what they look for when buying a home and the answer is almost always a convenient location first and then price.
In the case of Parkmore, location couldn’t be more important to media personality Ben Karpinski and his girlfriend who have lived here for nearly three years.
“I find living in Parkmore just makes a lot of sense location-wise. You are close to Sandton, as in really close, and yet you still enjoy a quieter suburban vibe at more affordable prices.”
He makes a point that these affordable prices coupled with the suburb’s location will not last forever. However, as many people look to other trendy upmarket suburbs, as a neighbourhood, Parkmore is almost like a “well-kept” secret.
What’s more, Parkmore has real park life with a beautiful spruit and open areas, along with a strip of restaurants and bars.
“Everyone makes a big deal about Parkhurst, but there are times there when you can't find parking as it is so manic,” says Karpinski
The tree-lined and tranquil suburb predominantly comprises freehold homes with a few sectional title developments that attract mostly first-time buyers looking to enter the property market at affordable prices.
The suburb appeals to young and established families alike and it offers easy access to a number of schools as well as the George Lea Park which offers extensive sports facilities, including cricket, soccer, tennis and volleyball, among others.
“What I love about Parkmore is its suburban lifestyle with leafy streets, its idyllic positioning in the cut and thrust of modern northern Joburg. Every shopping need is catered for, and the close proximity to the Gautrain station means you have a base that is truly connected to everywhere.” Ben Karpinski, resident.
Best in food:
- Dylan’s: for breakfast
- The Eatalian: for lunch
- The Generator is a popular bar.
- River Cafe at Sandton Field and Study Centre
Nearby nature:
- Braamfontein Spruit hiking trails
- Explore George Lea and Shandon Way parks.
- Walk the dogs and visit the monthly market at Sandton Field and Study Centre
- Visit the only original remaining farmhouse and now heritage site, Driefontein Farm House
Top schools:
- Montrose Primary School
- Morningside Pre-Primary School
- Honeybee Nursery School
- Hyde Park High School
- Stepping Stones Pre-primary School
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a spectacular journey through Sandton here: