The dwindling economy hasn’t put a damper on demand for lifestyle living in the Winelands.
Despite the flailing economy, appetite for upmarket secure lifestyle estate homes in the scenic Winelands remains strong and the latest release to cater to this steady demand is the second residential phase at Devonvale Golf & Wine Estate in Stellenbosch. Chris Cilliers, CEO and Principal for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in the Winelands, says: “The residential market in the Winelands is still very busy, especially the security estate sector where consistent demand, particularly at mid-market level, is spurring new developments as well as the expansion of existing estates in the area.”
“Security is foremost in people’s minds these days, and Winelands estates are especially popular as they do offer residents peace of mind,” says Cilliers, “but increasingly we are finding that an equally strong motivating factor for buyers is that they seek a significant change in lifestyle.
“More and more people are willing to endure a longer commute in exchange for a tranquil country lifestyle in a scenic setting where their families can safely enjoy the myriad outdoor, leisure and sporting activities on offer.”
Set against the northern slopes of the Devon Hills surrounded by vineyards and comprising 45 units in a variety luxury home packages to suit all needs, the plots overlook the new Executive Golf Course and a scenic dam with a jetty, walkway and gazebo.
The spacious double storey homes range in size between 347m² and 584m² with bright and airy open plan living areas that flow out to generous covered patios and compact landscaped gardens to maximise outdoor living. All have double garages and most have a dedicated space for golf cart storage.
Derek Cohen, Estate Specialist in Stellenbosch for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, says: “Devonvale was the first gated golf estate in Stellenbosch and is one of the most established developments in the region.
“Much has changed over the years with extensive renovations and improvements but the estate has still managed to retain its friendly country charm.”
“However, what hasn’t changed is the calibre of Devonvale’s world-class facilities, especially the magnificent 18-hole Championship golf course which has for many years offered a regular challenge to both local and international golfers alike.”
Devonvale is fortunate enough to have a large dam in the centre of the course, which feeds the irrigation system, and therefore the golf course doesn’t make use of potable water.
The estate is also known for its award-winning red wines, popular fine-dining restaurant and exclusive spa retreat.
Lew Geffen, Chairman of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty says: “Estates like Devonvale are popular with foreign investors taking advantage of the weak Rand as well as South African buyers from other provinces who are either moving to the Cape or investing in second homes and Capetonians looking to move out of the city. “They offer myriad luxury lifestyle facilities in one of the most scenic and sought-after areas in the country as well as access to excellent schools and top university while being only 30 to 40 minutes from Cape Town.”
Geffen adds that another strong appeal factor of estate living is the sense of community that residents enjoy.
“Long gone are the days when families living in the city knew all their neighbours by name and their kids played outside together until the street lights came on. However, this is a way of life on most estates where a sense freedom exists and people look out for one another.” Due to break ground after the winter rains, prices start at R7.4 million (VAT included, no transfer duty) with a 15% discount offered on the plot price for the first five buyers and 10% discount on the plot price of the next five sold.
