Opulent lifestyles - Westcliff & Saxonwold

Separated by the Johannesburg zoo and linked via Jan Smuts Ave rests the exclusive suburbs of Westcliff and Saxonwold and they remain one of the oldest and most desirable parts of the city to live.

Westcliff

Exclusive, yet far from inaccessible, the prestigious suburb of Westcliff offers a wide variety of homes ranging from R700k to R20m. From architectural masterpieces recognised by Blue Plaque commemorations to sprawling mansions encompassing almost 7000 sq/m of property, this area presents enticing investment opportunities to families seeking a quality, community-based lifestyle.

Some of Westcliff's most exclusive properties offer scenic views north to the Magaliesberg or south over the city centre. The character and culture of this area is preserved by a strong resident's association and, outside of the properties on the list, provides access to arterial routes, top medical facilities, schooling, shopping centres, and the famous Four Seasons Hotel.

Saxonwold

Established originally as a Timber Plantation in 1897 called Sachsenwald, Saxonwold (Anglicised after the First World War) used to be an entirely private section of land until 1903 when the company gave over 200 acres of freestanding property to the city of Johannesburg.  Development throughout the 20th century focused on the preservation of the Rand Regiments Memorial with homes built to keep the view unimpeded and street names including the "wold" suffix to emphasise the anglo feel. 

Presently, Saxonwold 's stately homes have seen a wave of renovations and updates with properties being subdivided to attract more families to the area. These estates boast a unique outdoor appeal from lush green lawns to ancient trees carrying a price tag ranging from R8 to R12 million. The area also boasts excellent schooling and shopping districts including the famous Johannesburg Zoo and War Museum. Saxonwold properties are some of the most valuable in the country.

Agent Q&A

We converse with our area estate agent and resident expert, Dee Sholtz, to receive insider knowledge about why living in these two spectacular Johannesburg suburbs is the pinnacle of opulence.

Q: Can you also remind us how long you have been operating in these areas and particular highlights of your time covering these suburbs.

A: I have been working in Saxonwold and Westcliff for nine years. I love the rich heritage of many of the properties in Westcliff, particularly those which have been awarded/granted Blue Plaque recognition by the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation. The large, treed gardens and quiet roads imbue an air of serenity. 

Q: When looking for a property in Westcliff or Saxonwold, are there any particular recommendations you would have for potential buyers?

A:  Recognise that many of the properties were built in the early 20th century, and as such, frequently require work to create contemporary, free flowing living spaces! Every home is unique, featuring original features, fireplaces, architraves, wood panelling, and leadlight windows. In order to upgrade, the process involves approval by the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation. 

Q: What sort of properties would you find in this area?

A:  In Westcliff, the minimum stand size is 2000 Sq M, whilst in Saxonwold, subdivisions to 750 Sq M are permitted. The original homes are traditional and spacious, built in the first half of the 20th Century.  

Q: What features set these areas apart from other neighbouring areas?

A:  Large stands, houses set well back from the road, traditional materials such as red clay tiled roofs, leadlight windows, numerous fireplaces, timber floors, architraves, and window frames.

Q: What makes these areas great for young families, are there any good schools in the nearby vicinity?

A:  Great family living in safe suburbs with easy and quick access to the best private schools in Johannesburg. Universities, medical centres/hospitals as well as to Rosebank and Hyde Park shopping centres and easy access to the Gautrain... It's the perfect location!

Q: In terms of lifestyle, what do these areas offer residents?

A:  Safe secure suburbs, close to recreation areas such as Zoo Lake, Parkview Golf Course. There is a great community spirit and strong Residents' Associations.

Q: What are the nearby healthcare facilities like?

A:  Milpark Hospital, The Donald Gordon; Rosebank Clinic, which also, thus, provides access to the very best specialists.

Q: What are some of the highlights of living in these areas, and how has the lockdown affected them?

A: The ability to walk to school, the desirable location of The Westcliff Steps, makes an ideal suburb for lockdown. Homes with spacious gardens, with pools and frequently used tennis courts have proven to be heaven-sent for families living in Johannesburg. Generally, these suburbs offer a superior lifestyle on the doorstep of Johannesburg's CBD.

Q: Let's explore prices, what are the trends? (speak to areas and property size)

A:  Average prices in Westcliff are currently around R9,5 M and property stand size averages 2800 Sq M. For Saxonwold, the average price is R5,7 Million on a stand size averaging 2118 Sq M. Westcliff has shown a price increase from 2020 to 2021 of around 17%, with a concomitant increase in the number of properties sold in the period. Saxonwold, on the other hand, is showing a decrease in average prices from 2019 to 2021, of around 20%. Saxonwold thus offers exceptional value in this market.

Q: What are your favourite aspects of the area, personally?

A:  Exclusive and unique properties on big stands which offer a superior lifestyle!

Read our previous article here: https://www.hamiltons.co.za/news/sars-buy-to-let-incentive-for-property-investors/

Subscribe to our newsletters: https://www.hamiltons.co.za/newsletter/ 

Contact Hamiltons Property Portfolio for all your buying or selling requirements:

Johannesburg (Head Office): 011 463 0155

Cape Town: 021 418-0328 

Garden Route: 044 050 3295

Eastern Cape: 076 927 7787

Or email to reception@hamiltons.co.za