While estates have initially gained popularity in the 80s and 90s, it was only in the early 2000s that it truly gained great momentum. Since then, multi-generational estates have been expanding and popping up across South Africa at a fast pace.
Following the global shift in how people want to live and work, there are various estates across South Africa that cater for multi-generational living. Previously the luxury of space, low-density living and access to world-class education and amenities was reserved for the affluent market. But as things change, it’s becoming more and more affordable to buy a home in an estate.
Estate Living’s CEO, Louise Martin says the term ‘multi-generational’ was coined when developers started to include dedicated spaces for people older than 55 years in their estates. Coincidently, the term also refers to multiple generations living under one roof.
Essentially the marketing term, ‘multi-generational’ promotes estates that accommodate young couples, families, children and also senior citizens. These include estates like the Cape Town-based Val de Vie, which partnered with Evergreen, Waterfall in Midrand and Avianto Estate’s Verona (see image above) in Muldersdrift to name a few.
In our spring edition, we share tips on things to consider when buying a home for multi-generational living. Subscribe here to see where you can get a copy.
People have been buying into multi-generational estates left right and centre, and with good reason. Here are the best reasons that would justify your buy:
Many of us have had to endure the visitors’ queue at a large estate. While it might be frustrating, it’s for security reasons, and by far the most important reason why people buy into estates.
Estates – especially those in Joburg – have gained popularity over the years mainly because of its security. While most estates in South Africa date back about 30 – 35 years, the trend started with the likes of KwaZulu-Natal’s Selborne Golf Estate and Fourways Gardens in Johannesburg. Some estates (like Kyalami Estate) even have crooked borders due to outside homeowners wanting in for the added benefit of additional security.
Security soon became a given when buying into an estate, though. Later, people started focusing on additional estate offerings like concierge services and lifestyle offerings too. These include gyms, running tracks, golf courses and more – things that fit into your requirements of the ideal home.
Communication has also become a high selling point when it comes to multi-generational community living in South African estates. As many people work from home these days and much of our comforts depend on technology, serious buyers expect estates to be fibre ready.
In addition to security, lifestyle and communication, buyers also ask about infrastructure for renewable energy, solar power and water management. With South Africa’s unpredictable electricity and water supply, homeowners evidently want some kind of security in this regard.
People choose their environments according to what they like. Living in a community is about much more than beautiful lawns. In fact, that what appeals to people is based on what they enjoy most.
Being part of a community plays an unfathomable role when it comes to a person’s well-being. And, getting stimulation and exposure from various generations within a community is something that one should never take for granted.
Multi-generational estates come with ample opportunity to get involved and mean something to someone. Be it a kiddies’ concert at the retirement village, a bake sale or a community braai, there are various ways to get involved. Unfortunately, this is something that is not so easily done when living outside of an estate.
Whether you buy a house inside or outside of an estate, be sure you don’t buy a house that requires you to change your lifestyle. Your home should allow you to live the way you enjoy living.
Planning a trip with your multi-generational family? Check out our exciting Travel Deals.
Decorating or revamping? See the ideal seven indoor plants for your home here.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
Stay up-to-date on the hottest, hippest and most happening things to do in Mzansi!