Tokai offers the best of country living - in town
03 May 2006
Surrounded by the historical Tokai forest, the Constantiaberg mountains and wine farms, exclusive Tokai in the southern suburbs of Cape Town offers city living with a difference.
Tokai forms the southernmost tip of the sought-after southern suburbs, yet has a distinct character, says Nadine Smith, area specialist for the Chas Everitt International property group.
It offers about 1000 residential properties in the midst of great natural beauty, yet the city centre and the beach are only a few minutes away.
Stately homes on large stands grace the Dennendal and Morningside nodes within Tokai, she says. Prices range from R2,5-million to R3,3-million for these homes, which generally have four generously proportioned bedrooms, some with en-suite bathrooms, and up to three reception areas.
Most of these properties also have their own boreholes which account for the lush green gardens, while riverside properties in Dennendal are popular because of the spectacular setting.
In contrast, charming cottages characterise the olde world Village node, where prices start at about R1,5-million and top prices are in the region of R2-million.
Properties in the Hamlet area behind the Blue Route Mall are also very sought-after, but are seldom offered for sale. They are snapped up fast when they do come on the market, at prices currently averaging about R1,2-million for a 140sqm unit on a 300sqm stand.
Townhouses in secure complexes with amenities such as communal pools and squash courts are also popular and are priced at up to R1,3-million. Prices for the smallest apartments in these complexes start at about R750 000.
Growth in property values in Tokai has slowed from 45 percent achieved two years ago but is still around 23 a year as buyers still view property in the area as an excellent investment, Smith says. The difference between asking and selling prices is currently running at around five to 10 percent.
Apart from the Blue Route Mall, which houses around 100 shops, movie theatres and several restaurants, local amenities include a library and several top schools including a Reddam House, a Waldorf school and the American international college.
But the biggest attraction is the natural beauty and country feel of the suburb. The Tokai forest, established as South Africas first reforestation project in 1883, offers walking trails and is also a popular outride destination for horseriders and cyclists.
Issued by Chas Everitt International
For further information call Brenda Smith at
Chas Everitt International Bryanston on 011 463 2033
or visit www.chaseveritt.com