Many property buyers choose an apartment for their first property, and while location and size are often considered, security features are often overlooked.
There is a lot to consider when purchasing in a sectional title – that is, an apartment block or residential complex – especially if you are buying for investment purposes. “Sectional titles are a great way to break into the property market. But, buyers need to consider all aspects of the property carefully if they want to ensure that it has true investment value,” says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
While certain aspects such as location and property size are features often considered, one of the features most buyers tend to overlook is security. “Many buyer’s take for granted that the security or concierge at the front desk is well-trained and familiar with policies and procedures for access control. The fact is, this is often simply not the case,” says Grant Rea, Certified Sales and Letting Specialist at RE/MAX Living. “As an agent, I have had dealings with more front desk receptions in Cape Town apartment blocks than most will in a lifetime – most of which have had someone on their front desk who is simply not a benefit to the building,” he adds.
In many cases, apartment blocks and residential complexes will charge levies to pay for services to manage the property. These include the services of the front desk and security, so you want to make sure you are paying for a worthwhile service.
“If the block has manned security and a reception desk, engage directly with the person on duty and ascertain their level of efficiency. Find out whether they can answer specific questions about the building, access control policies, and evacuation procedures,” Rea suggests.
4 things to consider when evaluating security:
1. What is the general state of the foyer and front desk?
If the space is cluttered, dirty and unkept, the overall value of the block should come into question, as poor first impressions plays a negative role in property values.
2. How easy is it for a non-resident to gain access to the block?
There ought to be strict security access control for visitors and contractors, otherwise the security system is just about pointless.
3. How long has the security staff been employed?
It is helpful to note how long the security or reception staff have been employed on this site, or if the staff are generally rotated. A high turnover of staff should raise concern. Staff become more familiar with the property and its residents the longer they remain working on the property, which means that they are more likely to pick up suspicious activity than new employees.
4. Is the service outsourced or is the block employing the person directly?
It is often the case that security employed directly by the complex’s body corporate is more interested in its well-being. If the service is outsourced, it is advisable to do a bit of research on the company to confirm that it is a reputable firm.
“It can be difficult to find apartment blocks with adequate security, but the blocks that get it right can significantly add value to the properties in the complex, not to mention the fact that it creates a more pleasant and safer experience for visitors and residents alike,” Rea concludes.
