Invest in Mason: The coast, community and convenience

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With construction at Mason nearing completion, you can now start looking forward to a modern lifestyle embedded in the Amanzimtoti community. With its prime and central location, this off-plan development has become the ultimate lock-up-and-go solution that will transform this upcoming area and set a new standard in living. We take a look at three reasons why investing in Mason will benefit you.

Convenience

Designed to suit families, professionals and on-the-go individuals, Mason showcases effective architectural design, sustainability, security, and accessibility to support a life of convenience. Mason is centrally located to ensure residents can conveniently grab their essentials at the shopping centre only a few minutes away. Your morning school and work routine will be seamless with these key amenities being just around the corner from Mason. The beach, family restaurants and the hospital are less than 10-minutes away from your future home!

The coast

KZN is home to some of the country’s best beaches and natural attractions. The South Coast is known for its laid-back coastal lifestyle and safe beaches. Take a trip to Amanzimtoti Beach, located a mere 10-minutes away from Mason and soak up the sun while the kids play on the shoreline.

Community

Amanzimtoti enjoys small town charms. Belong to a close-knit neighbourhood that values the closeness of community, safety, and interaction. Braai with your neighbours, become a regular at the local sports grounds, engage with other parents at sports days. Mason also has been designed to help neighbours engage with one another as it provides a secure residence with a clubhouse for residents to enjoy.

Find a place that feels like home, a place where you can put down roots and enjoy a lifestyle that treasures the simpler things in life. At Mason, you get the best out of this unique coastal lifestyle.

Green conscious property purchasing

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The trend of conscious property purchasing has emerged and progressed over the last decade. With the Green Building Council inspiring and advocating for green consciousness when it comes to property developments, many developers are opting to follow this innovative route. Ensuring that their developments have little to no negative impacts on the environment, developers like International Housing Solutions have taken to create homes for conscious property purchasers.

What is a conscious property purchaser?
A green conscious property purchaser will ensure that the home they’re looking to purchase is green-rated or EDGE-certified. This means that the home has been constructed around reducing carbon emissions while providing a sustainable and modern lifestyle.

The benefits of purchasing a ‘green’
Two of the greatest benefits of purchasing a green, EDGE-certified home is saving up to 20% on your utility bills and reaping the benefit of potentially gaining a 4 – 10% higher value on the property. These properties are more affordable as development can often be at least 5-10% more cost-effective.

What features can you expect?
A green-rated home provides various energy saving features that help enhance your living spaces. Your home will contain various elements like smart meters, energy saving light fittings and sensors, a solar geyser, dual flush toilet cistern along with low-flow faucets and fixtures while also providing reduced window to wall ratio, insulated roofs. These features work together to create a system that will help your home save electricity and water.

Taking into consideration the various benefits and savings on green homes, this will inevitably be the future of residential property. Mason will be a part of this revolutionary green movement, providing a unique opportunity to homebuyers to make a conscious property purchase. Located in the upcoming Arbour Town area of Amanzimtoti, you can gain the best in an all-rounded life while creating a positive impact on the environment.

Low cost of living at Mason

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Situated in the coastal town of Amanzimtoti, Mason presents the ideal residential opportunity for first-time buyers or investor looking to expand their property portfolio. With the ideal price, location, and product offering, you can reap the rewards of having minimal cost when it comes to buying a brand-new home.

Bond repayments

When it comes to the bond application and process of purchasing a home, many buyers opt to borrow the total purchase price of the home or even a little more if permitted to cover additional costs like conveyancer fees. With Mason being an off-plan development, you will only be expected to start paying towards your bond once the property has been transferred to you; which gives you some time to save. With the interest rate at 7%, when purchasing your apartment at Mason, you can expect a bond repayment of approximately R7 753 per month. Purchasing now would give you a lower bond repayment and investors will benefit from higher profits when renting out their unit.

Perks of buying from developer

Purchasing within Mason now means that you are buying directly from the developer. With this comes a few cost saving perks. One of these cost saving perks is the fact that you will not pay transfer duty.

Maintenance costs

Being a brand-new development, homeowners will not need to worry about high maintenance costs. All fixtures and finishes will be new and therefore will need little to no maintenance. Additionally, due to there being little maintenance needed, levies start off being low.

Green advantage

Mason, unlike most developments within Amanzimtoti, is a green-rated estate. As an EDGE-certified development, your apartment is fitted with smart meters, solar power geysers, energy saving light fittings and more. These fixtures help homeowners reduce carbon emissions while saving at least 20% on utility bills.

Mason has seen immense interest, with 14 sales achieved over the festive season alone. As an ideal area for families and budding professionals, homeowners will enjoy living close to all essential facilities, including schools, hospital, medical suites as well as a range of entertainment and retail amenities. Ensure you use this opportunity to secure your future home this year.

What’s happening at Mason Arbour Town

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Exhibiting a unique and vibrant residential opportunity on KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast, Mason Arbour Town was launched in November 2019. With construction having already commenced early, we are seeing this modern and secure estate come to life.

Construction has been moving along smoothly with the commencement of Phase 1,2,3, and 4 while Phase 5 building plans are expected to get underway soon. We’re happy to update homeowners that key infrastructure of the clubhouse and gatehouse are being readied for the laying of the foundation.

Other features that will become part of the estate include outdoor facilities like the estate pool, a firepit, and a dedicated kid’s play area. With a 24-hour security presence on the estate, your family’s security is a top priority.

Offering the option of 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom open-plan apartments from only R860 000, Mason introduces the ideal family home that is within close proximity to Amanzimtoti’s facilities. Residents will enjoy quick access to the nearby schools, hospitals, retail facilities, and even the beach! As the first green-rated development that is EDGE-certified in this area, residents are expected to save up to 20% on their utility bills.

Whether you are a first-time homeowner entering the market or experienced in the property field, Mason provides the ideal option for your property. Having achieved 50% of sales in Phase 1 within the first 2 weeks of launch, its clear that Mason has something special while meeting the market’s demand.

With first transfers expected to take place in early 2021, we can’t wait to welcome our residents as they get to delight in this lively environment on the South Coast. Requiring only a R10 000 deposit, use this opportunity to secure one of the remaining units of Mason and make this family estate your home.

Live outdoors this summer

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The coastal town of Amanzimtoti, located along the South coast of Durban, presents a laidback environment. With a range of recreational amenities available to enjoy, your summer holidays will be filled with fun seaside visits, delicious cuisine and relaxing sunsets overlooking the vast Indian Ocean.

Beachside fun

Head to the beach and soak up the sun. Amanzimtoti Main beach offers a vibrant setting that is great for sunbathing and catching waves. If you’re looking for family-friendly water activities, visit Splash Water World located on the main beach for a full day of entertainment. Guaranteeing endless excitement with the various slides and body rides, test your adrenaline levels with the coaster tube ride, kamikaze and stuka free fall or accompany the little ones on the river ride. The park offers braai facilities and easy access to the main beach.

Fun adventures

If you’re seeking a fun filled day of adventure, venture out to Oribi Gorge or Lake eLand. Get the  family together and pack some snacks for a short road trip heading just a bit further South. Another family favourite is Happy Wanderers, where you can camp out overnight and explore the beach just a few meters away. If you’re looking to cool off, The Pont is the ideal choice! With a range of water activities to enjoy, make the most of the day with jet skis, boats or sit along the water’s edge and cast out a line!

Get away from the hustle and bustle of daily work life and live on the South Coast. Mason Arbour Town is ideally located for the ultimate active family lifestyle, where everything you need is within close proximity.

Top 3 tips for first-time buyers

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Buying your first home is one the most exciting yet stressful times in your life. If you are in the process of looking for a home or even just entertaining the idea of it, we have 3 key tips for you, as a first-time buyer.

  1. Buy off-plan

Buying off-plan is an option that is becoming more popular with potential homeowners. While difficult to contemplate at first, the benefits of purchasing off-plan include avoiding transfer duty as a prime reason, saving you a large fee. Purchasing directly from a developer allows you to be a part of the bigger picture when it comes to the process at hand. Watch your home being built from the ground up and envision your future in a prime location. An additional benefit of purchasing off-plan is the advantage of securing a bond and only contributing towards it once transfer of your home is taken. This allows you some time to consider your financial planning. Save up while you wait and prepare yourself for the time ahead. Having sight of that helps you with perspective and preparation as a first-time buyer which can sometimes be tremendously overwhelming.  Off-plan purchases will result in a ready-to-move-in home that does not require additional work, which often plagues first-time buyers when factors like costly restoration comes into play.

  1. Research

Ensure you conduct the necessary research required before purchasing. It is of utmost importance to understand the developers that you purchase from; how they work and how their projects have turned out to give you peace of mind on your future home. International Housing Solutions (IHS) is a leading developer and is pioneering the affordable, green housing market and energy conscious choices when considering developments, as these have become in-demand in achieving sustainable lifestyles for the property market. IHS have created projects like Mason Arbour Town that have taken this approach to creating green lifestyle and becoming EDGE-certified. Another aspect of research involves understanding what the hidden costs may be when purchasing off-plan. Contact your conveyancer or sales agent to talk through these steps in detail, so nothing comes as a surprise!

  1. Consider location for lifestyle

Your home’s geographical location is an important one to consider when purchasing your first home. If you are purchasing for your little family, factors like schools and recreational facilities might be necessary to consider beforehand. Mason Arbour Town is situated in an area that hosts a range of family-focused amenities that are located within a close range, ensuring an enthralling lifestyle that is suited to a first-time buyer. Within the estate, Mason Arbour Town boasts a secure gated community where you can also enjoy life near the poolside or with family time in the kid’s play area.

No matter where you choose to purchase, ensure that you have a sense of security when it comes to what you truly want out of your first home.

It’s time to get a foothold on the property ladder

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With the current low interest rate of 7%, owning a home has become more affordable. The South African market is primed for a real estate boom as more people opt to invest their money into property because it offers wealth security and the opportunity to grow their money. Before you purchase property, it is important that you select property that will yield good returns in time to come. Mason Arbour Town is a residential development that is poised to attract new homeowners. With a competitive price point under R1 million and with a low deposit, investing into this development is accessible and affordable.

With only a R10 000 deposit, you can secure your unit at Mason. As an off-plan development, your deposit is the only financial investment you will be required to make up until transfer. This stands you in good stead because any growth on the value of your unit will be yours to keep. In the first year, you can earn as much as 1030% back of your initial R10 000.

This also demonstrates that buying in an off-plan development as early as possible is the best thing to do. By nature, launch prices are the lowest prices offered by a developer. By purchasing your Mason off-plan as early as possible, all factors are in your favour for you to experience the greatest value growth on your investment. The combination of a low interest rate and competitive rates offered by the banks creates the ideal climate for property investment. Financial forecasters have said that the interest rate will steadily climb over the next few years, therefore it is unlikely that we will see an interest rate as low as this for a long time.

Your bond is only payable from transfer which means that you can secure your Mason unit now and enjoy up to 18 months before your pay your first home loan instalment.

Those who are looking into purchase at Mason to earn a rental income will find the competitive buying factors attractive. With sectional title rental demand in Amanzimtoti at 60%, you can expect demand for your investment as it is located in a prime node that is close to shopping centres, hospital and medical suites, schools and businesses. This investment will translate into a huge saving for buyers. Owners can expect to earn from 7.1% in their rental yield within year 1.

With the historically low interest rate, competitive home loan terms being offered by banks as well as property investment priced below R1 million, the conditions for property investment have never been better. Mason is your foray into the world of property ownership in a residential development which is primed for value growth in time to come.

Why purchase within an IHS development

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Mason Arbour Town is developed by International Housing Solutions (IHS). IHS is a company focused on financing the development of housing communities. The broader vision of IHS is to develop properties which empower communities and provide cascading opportunities beyond housing.
The long-term vision of IHS
One of the key mandates of this trusted developer is developing residential developments which are energy efficient. The reason for this is that these developments aid in reducing overall environmental impact while also helping to reduce build costs, which in turn lower ownership costs for the buyer or investor. Overall, energy efficient residential developments have a positive impact for all. Sustainability is a fundamental principle behind HIS and therefore informs the physical design on their estates.

A reputable property developer

Before investing in a property development, it is best to do some research on the development group. Property developers should be transparent, approachable and have a good track record for delivery. Have a look on their website, any published mass media articles online and social media in order to get better acquainted with the developer. There is nothing better than a first-hand account so consider talking to people you know who have bought into an IHS development. Mason homeowners can rest assured that their investment is backed by the solid reputation for quality workmanship underpinned by thorough research and a keen understanding of the property market and its niches. Furthermore, IHS are reputed for delivering EDGE-certified buildings with modern lifestyle offerings.

It pays off to invest with a developer like IHS because, unlike many other developers, they start planning their developments well in advance. With a mapped out 10-year development plan and the key findings through their market research, IHS developments are able to begin construction of their developments much earlier.

Delivering Mason
Being an IHS development, Mason Arbour Town was able to commence construction before the product was launched to public. With first transfers set to take place soon, IHS has delivered exactly what they have promised.

Take a moment to book your site visit and experience the workmanship in full swing, as the team make headway with construction, despite the slow down of the National Locakdown.

Invest in Mason for a better future

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Green buildings are a priority to developers and EDGE software helps build sustainable homes. Facilitated through the Green Building Council of South Africa, EDGE certified buildings aim to use resources that cost less which ultimately saves owners money, while promoting greener lifestyles. There are over 10 000 EDGE certified homes in South Africa, which shows that this type of development is growing. Mason is the first green-rated estate to enter Amanzimtoti and through the use of EDGE software has been designed to consume at least 20% less in energy and water, as well as materials that use 20% less embodied energy.

How is Mason green-rated?

With sustainable development as one of its drivers, Mason incorporates several design features which make it EDGE certified. These features mean your environmental impact and resource consumption will be significantly reduced. Your Mason apartment will include:

  • A design and layout which harnesses natural light.
  • Smart meters to track and monitor energy consumption.
  • Solar power geyser.
  • Energy saving light fittings and sensor switches to ensure lights are only powered when needed.
  • Insulated roof to keep heat in.
  • Natural ventilation resulting in less use of air conditioners.
  • Low-flow faucets and fixtures.
  • Dual flush toilet cistern so you can choose the most optimum flush and volume of water.

How can Mason’s design save you money?

Due to its efficient and sustainable design, green-rated buildings like Mason cost less to run. Lower running costs mean that your monthly levies are lower too. The design of your home will ensure you save at least 20% on your monthly utility costs. Now that EDGE certified developments are gaining popularity, and Mason is Amanzimtoti’s first green-rated development, you could gain a 4-10% higher value on your property when compared to standard estate offerings in the area.

Investing in Mason is a win-win situation. Not only will your monthly home running costs be lowered but you’re also part of worldwide movement that upholds sustainable development for the betterment of mankind. This will also enable property ownership to become more accessible for many.

What rental solution will work for you?

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Mason is a product that is both ideal for homeowners and even investors looking to rent out their unit. Being situated in what is also considered a holiday destination and within close proximity to schools, shopping centres and business premises; Mason is an ideal rental solution for long-term and short-term leases. We take a look at the different renting solutions to help you identify which would work best for you.

Traditional renting solutions

Amanzimtoti is a close-knit community and family orientated, which means that long-term rental solutions are in high demand. Apartment living is a popular choice for young professionals and young families in the area, and of the apartment tenure status, 60% of those residing within apartments are renters. There is a huge demand for secure, affordable and conveniently close homes within the area.

Holiday letting

Position plays a vital role in holiday homes, and Mason is strategically placed to enjoy the convenience and security needed when on holiday or business. Short-term rental solutions, where units are offered for holiday makers, allow for more frequent use throughout the year. Situated close to the beach, highway, shopping centres and other recreational amenities, holidaymakers have easy access to all of these and more. Additionally, Toyota’s head office, along with other blue-chip companies, are situated with 10-minutes of Mason, which means that business travellers can make use of self-catering apartments close by.

Mason offers the opportunity of purchasing 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom units from R869 000 or 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom units from R920 500. Whether you are purchasing within Mason to live or lease, it’s position, convenient lifestyle, green design and starting prices falling under R1 million; make it an attractive property purchase.