Buying outside of an estate – advice from a RE/MAX agent

The growth of the Dolphin Coast over recent years has been nothing short of astounding, with homes, streets, malls and golf estates springing up almost faster than one can believe.

Along with the exciting developments has been a growing change in the property market.

Over the last 15 years, the Dolphin Coast has become home to a number of lavish estates that have won the hearts of many families, but now free-standing homes out of the estates are being revived.

Although there are many positives to living in an estate, purchasing a free standing residential home is springing back into fashion.

RE/MAX Dolphin Realtors’ property agent of the month for April, Johnny Mutton, also known as ‘The House King’ by fellow realtors and clients as he sells more houses on the North Coast than any other agent, has all you need to know if you are considering buying.

Cost

Free standing homes often carry a lower price tag than comparable homes within an estate.

The average home in an estate can cost up to R5.5 million, whereas a home outside an estate can go for R2.5 million and offer the same structural luxuries.

Many estates charge monthly levy’s that can reach into the thousands of Rands, so home buyers should carefully compare the overall expense before making a purchase.

Many rules

“Rules and regulations play a big role in estates and many people do not enjoy having limitations when it comes to daily living,” said Johnny.

“In a residential home out of the estate, you have little or no limits with regards to pets, entertainment, parking and space.”

Some estates boast multiple rules and regulations that limit luxuries, which may not suit all.

But while luxuries may be restricted, additional 24-hour security and access control is often a selling point.

“Many families with partners who work away much prefer residing in a gated estate where they feel more secure.”

Privacy

Free standing residential homes typically offer some space between the home and the closest neighbour, and this separation can equate to increased privacy for residents.

In an estate where the homes share walls it is much easier to feel like you are living with neighbours, sharing each other’s loud music, television, parties and even arguments.

However, many estates on the Dolphin Coast are spacious and boast plenty of space for outdoor activities including bass fishing, jogging and sports.

Yard

Although many estate homes have lawns, these yards are typically considerably smaller than a free-standing home’s lawn.

Especially in relation to how much value you can get for your money per m².

In many communities, the estate provides a common area with a swimming pool, club house and play area, which has both advantages (shared maintenance costs and less personal upkeep) and disadvantages (reduced privacy).

To maximise purchasing a home in an environment that is suited to you, give Johnny Mutton a call on 082 452 5524 and let him show you all that the Dolphin Coast has to offer.