Fernwood Attracts Buyers Beyond Expectations

A FLURRY of buying activity less than a month after Kloof-based Fernwood Eco-residential estate phase two was launched underpins the appetite South African consumers have to competitively-priced middle-income housing. Acutts Property Group launched the second and final phase of Fernwood in August after wholly selling out the 30-unit initial phase. Acutts chairman Pat Acutt says seven sales were concluded within two days of launching and another two weeks later, reflecting the demand for properties in this segment.

Developers Classic Crown hand over the keys to the first 20 units in the complex on November 1 with Acutt commenting this provided potential buyers with "a tangible touch and feel" to Fernwood. Landscaping was coming to the fore and the development taking on "that homely, welcoming feel". Building on phase two commences in November and, given the services and infrastructure have already been completed, handover is expected by April next year. Situated in Fernleigh Drive in Kloof amid abundant wildlife, Fernwood phase two brings to the market another 18 new units. Apartments start from R749500; two-bedroom units from R1,0345 million and three-bedroom units from R1,0995 million with buyers offered a range of fittings to match personal taste. Acutt says the success of Fernwood phase one reflected South Africans desire for good quality, affordable housing. The development offered investors the chance to live among nature as 80% of the land would be retained in its indigenous state.

Consequently, owners could indulge in hiking trails to the waterfall or the African Crowned Eagle viewing platform. Beyond these large birds of prey, wildlife includes dussies, ruby-footed giant black millipedes, the Kloof frog, Yellow Billed Kites and several Kingfisher species. Indigenous trees include Red Beech, Hluhluwe Creeper and Climbing Granadilla. Fernwood recreational facilities include an extensive playing field and swimming pool, while the development boasts both 24-hour security and pet-friendliness. "While some sites have sea views, owners are assured of breath-taking views wherever their homes are situated within the estate," Acutt says. The property is zoned for Kloof schools as well as having accessibility to St Mary's and Thomas Moore. Acutt says most developments currently coming to the market cater to the upper income brackets without regard for middle-income South Africans.

Fernwood seeks to redress that balance and, given the bulk of phase one was sold on launch day, there is a clear demand within this sector. Phase one includes 12 apartment units with two bedrooms, one bathroom and a garage for R749500; six two or three-bedroom units with two bathrooms and a double garage starting from R1,1045 million and 12 two and three-bedroom units with two bathrooms and a double garage starting from R1,0345 million. "The majority of the units will be owner-occupied with only a handful purchased for investment purposes. The buyers have all expressed excitement at the prospect of property ownership," Acutt says.

Captions: The first phase of Fernwood is complete and new owners will shortly occupy their new homes. Additional photos and architect’s impressions are available from Shirley Williams on 083 303 1663 or shirley@swcommunications.co.za Ends Prepared and distributed on behalf of Acutts (Pty) Ltd For more information contact: Pat Acutt on 082 495 1196 Michael Dewar on 082 859 8596 Distributed by Shirley Williams Communications. Contact Shirley on 083 303 1663 or shirley@swcommunications.co.za