Thorny Bush estate in Limpopo in full swing of development
Thorny Bush Estate is not only the first of its kind in Limpopo, but for the time being it is also more affordable than most other gated estates in this province, and in fact in South Africa in general, says Christine McGrath, Managing Director for Seeff Mokopane. “120 units have already been sold in the estate and this speaks volumes not only about the demand that evidently exists for an upmarket, gated residential estate in Limpopo, but also about the remarkable investment opportunities that discerning investors in the area are realising. More growth in the near future is also predicted for Mokopane as is demonstrated by the significant foreign investment into Platinum mines and a new water feeder pipeline for the area that will create more water and undeniably more growth and investment. Particularly into the mining sector where there are currently another 15 new mining licence applications awaiting the water supply”. Rob Hudson, MD of Hayes Matkovich Developments, the developers of the estate, says that the 200 ha estate will ultimately comprise 285 homes. “Currently on sale is the first Phase of 142 stands of which there are still 19 stands available. Properties started transferring in September 2015 and there are already many homes being built. All stands are full title, free standing and comprise of “Village stands” of 700 – 900 square metres priced from R450 000, “Golf Course stands” of 1100 – 2000 square metres, priced from R650 000, and a small number of exclusive “Wildlife stands” of 3200 - 4400 square metres starting at R1 million. In addition, complete home build packages are also available from the developer, starting at R1.45 million. 60% bonds are available when buying stands and bonds up to 90% when buying a complete home package”. Hudson continues that Thorny Bush Estate boasts a number of unique features that was previously unattainable to Mokopane and Polokwane residents. “This includes amongst others membership and access to the Kameeldoring Country Club and its associated sporting and leisure amenities (the Kameeldoring Golf Course is currently undergoing a “Matkovich” upgrade), a pristine bushveld environment carrying free roaming game like kudu and impala (although within a few minutes’ drive to the centre of Mokopane) and outdoor activities like trail running, mountain biking and fishing on a 40ha dam. From an investor’s perspective the estate is equally attractive. “There are a number of general and unique factors that are driving asset appreciation levels on the estate and in addition to this there is a distinct shortage in supply of upper end rental properties in Mokopane. Furthermore the performance of the Mokopane economy is underpinned by the current and expanding mining sector in the area”. “Local authorities have also not granted approvals for any similar estates in the area, resulting in Thorny Bush Estate probably being the only estate of its nature in Mokopane for some time to come”. Hudson concludes that while offshore investment markets have just become too expensive and inaccessible given the weakness of the Rand and the highly volatile local equity markets, residential property is probably the most secure and consistently performing investment type - be it for lifestyle or for pure investment reasons. The architectural theme of Thorny Bush is broadly described as “contemporary bushveld” and focuses on home designs that use natural materials, textures and colour schemes that blend with the natural kameeldoring bushveld. At the same time cutting edge technology and materials are used to create a home that compliments the requirements of modern living with respect to energy efficiency and retaining building cost affordability. A panel of approved architects as well as an approved panel of builders are available to owners to help them build and personalise their homes. In addition to custom designs, there are pre-designed plans that Buyers are able to choose from with associated cost and efficiency benefits. For more information on the Thorny Bush Estate please contact Seeff Mokopane on 015 491 5123/083 250 6599 or visit the website at www.thornybushestate.co.za