Green designs in-demand

/in /by

Mason is one of the fastest selling developments within the Amanzimtoti area and part of what gives this estate the upper hand on other places is the EDGE-certified, green lifestyle. International Housing Solutions has used EDGE to provide a measurable way in which building Mason can be efficient, resource conscious and affordable. We take a look at how this feature ensures greater value in property and high standard of living.

The EDGE standard

As mentioned before, EDGE means Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies and helps making green living more affordable for all. By using this smart software, the set standard for developers is to ensure the design achieves a minimum of 20% reduction in carbon emission, water and energy. The area’s climate, general utility costs, and building regulations data is used to determine what a 20% reduction would be.

Cutting costs

By reducing the carbon emission, energy and water usage by at least 20%, those who manage, and even reside within the estate, will benefit as they will inevitably pay lower utility bills. These results are achieved through the use of smart meters, solar powered geysers, energy saving light fittings and sensors, low-flow faucets and fixtures and making use of natural ventilation in design.

Sustainable future

Through green buildings and utilising software solutions like EDGE, developers are making a significantly positive impact on combating climate change. Mason is an example of how green estates are in high demand, as it proves to be one of the fastest selling developments within the Amanzimtoti area. In turn, Mason is creating a greener community.

With energy and water remaining a concern for South Africans, Mason is part of a movement towards living greener and independently. Not only is an EDGE-certified estate cost effective to build for developers, it also saves the buyer money.

Mason webinar recap

/in /by

The first Mason webinar unpacked the property market, revealed the developer’s preference for certain KZN locations, the importance of creating a product at the right price and more. Those who have invested or are looking into a prospect at Mason will get a full understanding of what this development will offer.

Reputable developer

“IHS has done significant and comprehensive market research and they have a proven track record, in terms of design and product offering,” Beowulf Hattingh, Crowie Developments. Unlike other developers, IHS has a 10-year plan for their developments and therefore are in a favourable position to start their construction of Mason ahead of sales being launched. This means that their products have enough time to be developed at high standards but do not let the purchaser wait long for transfer to take place.

Prime position

Location goes beyond just the region of a province, but also relates to the proximity in which a development is strategically positioned to local amenities, such as shopping centres, schools, highways, hospitals and beaches. Mason is less than 5 minutes away from all these amenities and provides a charming coastal lifestyle. IHS has identified Arbour Town in Amanzimtoti as a growing, upcoming area that shows growth, potential and is in prime position to everything on-the-go families and professionals need.

Unique lifestyle

“If you look at where it is positioned in Amanzimtoti, it is close to the main shopping centre in the area and has easy access to the highway. This along with the lifestyle elements that are included in the estate, and the fact that it’s a green building, which is one of only a handful in the area, I think that and the price point makes it a really good buy and opportunity,” explains Janine Greyvensteyn, IHS Sales Management.

Along with the reputation of the developer, the product, green aspects, location, lifestyle and price-point make a significant difference to the success of an estate. Mason is a key example of all these factors working together as the estate is already 70% sold out. Learn more about the opportunities Mason can unlock for you

 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukwox4p1Qnpg6nYn-7St-Q

3 Must-dos for first-time buyers

/in /by

Getting a foothold in the property market is quite daunting and there are many factors you will need to consider when taking your first steps. We take a look at the top 3 factors first-time buyers need to keep in mind.

Look at off-plan developments

As a first-time home buyer, there are benefits to purchasing an off-plan opportunity. Generally, there is an estimated 18-month waiting period for construction to complete on residential developments. In the case of International Housing Solutions developments, like Mason, they started construction long before the product was launched to public, giving them a head start and purchasers in turn had less time to wait to move in. Once you have taken transfer of your home, you will be taking ownership of a brand-new home, which will require little to no maintenance.

Some of the other benefits of purchasing an off-plan development include the fact that you are buying directly from the developer and therefore will not be required to pay transfer duty. If you are securing a bond, you will only need to pay towards your bond once transfer of your unit has taken place.

Location

The principle of property investing is GASH investment – Good area small home. A good location means it provides better value. A good location is not only referring to the general region, but also includes the need to be situated close to popular and necessary amenities. Mason is a prime example of how location plays in its favour as it is placed in the up-and-coming Arbour Town in Amanzimtoti and also is less than 10 minutes away from shopping centres, the beach, hospitals, schools and businesses.

Do your homework

It is vital to learn more about a development group that you are investing in, know their track record, follow their developments on social media and listen to what others have to say about their experience through dealing with them. International Housing Solutions has built their reputation on their quality workmanship, EDGE-certified buildings and modern lifestyle offerings. Additionally, understand all the costs that will be involved before committing yourself to such a hefty purchase.

 

The first step is always the hardest, but once you get your foot in the door, property purchasing will get easier, affordable and more strategic. Once achieving these three vital steps you will be successfully on your way to investing in property.

The South Coast scene

/in /by

The vibrant, up-and-coming Arbour Town forms part of the greater Amanzimtoti area along KwaZulu-Natal’s picturesque South Coast.  Many families have turned to the South Coast for holidays, from beach getaways to off-the-beaten track adventures. We take a look at the South Coast scene and the experiences you will be able to enjoy on your weekend road trips.

Beach every day

There are some exquisite beaches you will get to visit, from your local ones in Amanzimtoti, to Scottburgh all the way to Margate and Port Edward. There are some fabulous fishing spots, waves to surf on and little eateries along the way.

In the wild

The South Coast is also home to incredible wildlife and nature reserves. Perfect for a day trip or even the whole weekend, you will find places like Lake Eland, Leopards Rock, Oribi Gorge, iNsingizi that will show off a piece of natural heaven.

An adventure

From white water rafting, ziplining, abseiling, and shark cage diving there is an adventure to be had along the South Coast. There are all types of activities along the South Coast that will get your heart racing and take your ‘family time’ to the next level.

Let the kids play

Amanzimtoti has tons for little ones to get up to, from the ice rink at Galleria there are other attractions you can find along the South Coast. Experience a day at MacBanana from playing putt-putt to ziplining or take on the super tubes at Water World at the Wild Coast Casino.

Whether you are looking for a quiet place to retreat or a fun weekend away, the South Coast scene has something for everyone. Living at Mason, you will have direct access to this charming coastal stretch that will help create some incredible family memories as you make Arbour Town your home.

What investing in an EDGE estate really means

/in /by

EDGE-certified buildings are making a significant change to the way estates are being developed and even in how people are living day-to-day.

Mason is an EDGE-certified estate and one of the first to enter the Amanzimtoti area. We take a look at what this means to the purchaser and how EDGE estates are changing the way we live.

Lower operating costs

Can you imagine paying at least 20% less on your utilities? One of the prerequisites of an EDGE building is to use low-flow faucets fixtures, insulated roofs, energy-saving lightings and sensors, dual flush cisterns and even solar powered geysers help ensure that carbon emission, energy and waters is reduced by 20%. This creates a low operating cost for the entire estate and each resident that lives in their own units.

Combating climate change

There is no denying that water and energy are in high demand in South Africa. The building of energy efficient and green homes is helping to fight against climate change and the challenges South Africans are facing regularly, such as power cuts and even drought in areas. Through the use of smart meters developers are moulding more conscious communities. EDGE is a worldwide movement and in total has saved 455,440 MWh/year in energy, 13,635,761 m3/year water, 224,549 CO2 and 21,182,729 GJ embodied energy.

Responsible investing

Aside from living a conscious and responsible lifestyle, by purchasing a unit within Mason, you will be considered to be investing responsibly. What does this mean? Mason is a green, EDGE-certified estate that is creating significant change to carbon emission, energy and water consumption; it’s in essence creating a sustainable lifestyle which means those who invest in them are investing in greener future. As a purchaser within Mason, you automatically become part of a greener community.

You can’t resist the attractive purchasing price of Mason, which offers 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom units from R869 000 and 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom options from R920 500. Be part of the positive change happening across the world and invest in green buildings that are contributing to a sustainable future.

Cost effective and efficient way of living

/in /by

Mason has been designed to serve both the developer and the end-user. You may be wondering how that could possibly work?

Having used EDGE software, Mason has been built as a cost effective and efficient estate. We take a look at the two sides of this coin and how everyone comes out winning when purchasing through this estate.

Development perks

Mason is an EDGE-certified estate, which means that certain criteria had to be met in order for it to be considered as such. Developers are expected to look at the cost of their resources, designs and utilisation of carbon emissions, water and energy. The cost of building is reduced, which means that the end product therefore is more affordable for market consumption. Aside from creating a product that is cost effective, the developers are in turn creating a green product that is fighting a bigger cause. The design is energy and water efficient which helps build a more sustainable future, one building at a time.

Property purchasing perks

From the buyer’s point of view, buying into an estate like Mason has more perks than standard estates. Firstly, the estate is an off-plan, affordable estate, which means that purchasers will be buying directly from the developer paying only a R10 000 deposit to secure a unit and having no transfer duty costs. The product has been positioned to enjoy a convenient lifestyle where residents need not travel more than 10-minutes to places they need to be, whether schools, shops, beach or business. Living at Mason will be cost effective and efficient, as through fixtures and finishes used throughout the estate and in each unit, residents will pay lower levies and at least 20% less on their utility bills.

The demand for contemporary, lock-up-and-go, low maintenance homes is on the rise. Enjoy seeing the value of your investment escalate in a few short years as Mason goes from being in an off-plan development stage to when the estate has completed construction and transfers have taken place.

Millennials turn towards off-plan developments

/in /by

The millennial market is driving the demand for homes under the R1 million mark and are moving away from being known as ‘Generation rent’ and rather strategic first-time buyers. Mason’s first phase is already 50% sold out, and 67% of the purchasers are within the Millennial age range, which is set between 23 to 38.

“Betterbond reported that the average home price for first-time buyers is currently R982 000, with a 10% deposit. The success behind Mason is in part the attractive pricing, as homeowners need only a R10 000 deposit to secure their unit, and the price range of the modern, 2-bedroom apartments are set competitively with the demand, ranging from R869 000 to 995 000,” shares Graham Kusano, International Housing Solutions representative.

He further explains, “With the recent interest rates cut, off-plan developments such as Mason, help first-time buyers make their step towards owning property a lot easier. The Millennial market are seeing the financial benefit in investing in off-plan opportunities. Having purchased directly from the developer, purchasers are dodging the transfer duty fees, which can account for a big lump sum in established, standard property opportunities. Additionally, with the lending rates currently at their cheapest, those who have secured a bond for the payment of their home, will only start paying towards it once the construction of the Phase is complete and subsequent transfer has taken place.”

The promise of faster capital appreciation also tips the scale in favour of off-plan property investments. Mason starts from R869 000, and once construction is complete, investors can expect to gain 13% capital appreciation and will see their apartment value escalate to approximately R981 970. With the interest rate at its lowest in South Africa, coupled with more banks now willing to offer 105% loans to first-time buyers; we can expect to see more Millennials turn their attention to estates like Mason

Automotive industry boosting Amanzimtoti’s property market

/in /by

Amanzimtoti is still a popular choice for out-of-towners to visit for a relaxed time-out from the normal hustle and bustle of everyday living. In recent times, this South Coast KZN destination has since become a first choice for families and professionals to live. One of the major influential industries to help boost this movement is the automotive industry.

Toyota’s Head office and biggest plant within South Africa is located approximately 10-minutes away from Mason. While just a 15-minute drive away, the future R11,5 billion KZN Automotive Supplier Park is set for the Kingsburgh area.

Brought to you by Dube Tradeport and the Department of Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) the KZN Automotive Supplier Park is set to be complete by 2022. On completion, this major industrial development is expected to generate at least 25 000 jobs.

As a result of professionals and families wanting to live closer to their workplace and social hubs, we will see an influx of people semigrate to the Amanzimtoti area.

Those looking for property opportunities within this area, can look at investing in an off-plan development, such as Mason. Presenting 2-bedroom apartments from R869 000, this EDGE-certified offering gives homeowners the convenience of living close to work, popular amenities and the beach.

Register your interest and learn more about the available opportunities within Mason. Use this period to secure your place within this upcoming area.

Off-plan development investment within Amanzimtoti

/in /by

Developers are listening to the market and tailoring their designs to meet the demand. We take a look at some of the key factors Mason delivers on as an off-plan investment estate.

The best locations

Through research, developers are identifying key growth areas and purchasing land that is strategically located close to amenities such as good schools, office blocks and shopping centres. When purchasing an off-plan development, the location has been considered for the market and designed to maximise convenient living. Mason delivers the live-work-play lifestyle many investors and homeowners are looking for.

Money talks

Purchasing off-plan means that you are buying directly from the developer and can therefore expect your property value to increase once construction is complete and transfer has taken place. Mason starts from R869 000, and once construction is complete, investors can expect to gain 13% capital appreciation and gain an apartment worth approximately R981 970.

Savings

As an off-plan development, those who purchase within Mason will not need to pay a transfer duty fee. Additionally, if you have been granted a bond for the purchase price, you are only expected to pay this when you have officially taken transfer.

A smaller deposit

In purchasing a home or property, a hefty deposit is required. In some cases, these new estates only require a small one. In order to secure your purchase within Mason, home buyers need to only pay R10 000. Once the construction is complete on your apartment and transfer takes place, you can expect to see approximately 1030% return on your original R10 000 deposit.

There are many perks to consider when purchasing off-plan, but what separates Mason from the rest, is that it is an EDGE-certified, carefully designed estate that will help reduce the cost of the running of the estate, but will also essentially lower investors utility bills by at least 20%.

Register your interest and learn more about the available opportunities remaining at Mason.

Mason meets market demand

/in /by

Having launched just over 2 months ago, Mason has experienced immense interest with approximately 50% sales achieved in the first phase. These sales figures illustrate how Mason has successfully met key market demands, including its positioning, price-point and product offering.

Convenient living

Mason is situated in the heart of Arbour Town, Amanzimtoti, and is less than a 10-minute drive away from amenities such as top schools, business hubs, the industrial sector, shopping centre, the beach and even the hospital. Residents will have everything they need on their doorstep, making modern family living effortless.

Prime property price

Presenting 2-bedroom opportunities ranging from R869 000 to R995 000, Mason hits the ‘sweet spot’ when it comes to property pricing, especially within the Amanzimtoti area. Within this area, approximately 70% of sales were sectional title and 37% of the property sales within this area fell between R800 000 and R1,5 million.

A unique lifestyle

Convenience, green living and security are some of the key factors that make living at Mason so desirable. Not only will residents have a gatehouse with 24-hour security, they will have direct access to their own clubhouse, braai and firepit facilities and dedicated kid’s play area. Additionally, Mason residents will live 10-minutes away from everything they could possibly need; schools, shopping centres, businesses and the N2 highway. Additionally, as the first green-rated estate to enter Amanzimtoti, Mason has been specially designed to reduce carbon emissions, which in turn will help cut down utility bills by at least 20%.

Mason has created an ideal live-work-play lifestyle in the heart of a growing community. Register your interest and find out more about the available opportunities you can invest in.