New developments, new lifestyle, new opportunity

With the lure of VAT-inclusivity, at-hand amenities, and safe, secure living, new developments in Cape Town are starting to show signs of growing into themselves as buyers start to take notice.

We spoke to Lynn Pinn and Simony Santos on what makes these developments so appealing and picked their brains on some of the best options for first-time buyers and investors.

"You can save a significant amount of money by choosing a development property. Firstly, you avoid paying transfer duty on the property. VAT is included in the price, so what you see is what you get - with no surprises along the way," says Simony. "Purchasers also don't need to spend money on renovating, because they are already fitted with stunning new finishes, and are immediately ready for buyers to move in."

Thankfully, Cape Town has plenty of options, with a wide variety, and range, to invest in. Sea Point for example, has Strand Beach, which has two really beautiful penthouses on offer. Both boast private rooftops, one with a private swimming pool, while the building also offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. We have quite a few units on offer, starting from R3.4 million and up to R17 million.

"The building offers 24-hour security and boasts a really great location, being within walking distance from restaurants, shops, and all the other necessary amenities. It's a great option for first time buyers," says Simony of the development.

Alpha One is another option in Sea Point, which has just been completed, and is a truly magnificent building. This 6-floor, 16-unit luxury residence is beautifully placed between the highly prized platinum belts of High Level Road and Ocean View Drive It also has a really wonderful piece of history, with the battery canon recently found there, having been incorporated into the design. Luxurious finishes, with all the units having uninhibited, secured sea views. There is a beautiful wine cellar, with a wine tasting room, pool deck and 24-hour security. Short-term rentals are also allowed here.

Having recently sold one of the luxury units in Alpha One, Lynn makes note of the fact that, ''While market conditions have been tough over the last couple of years and developers may have been struggling to sell off-plan, now that these buildings have been completed, buyers are able to view the finished product and truly recognize the opportunities available.''

"Outside of Sea Point, in De Waterkant area, there are a number of really nice options," she says. "These developments are very vibey, within walking distance to coffee shops, and are close to the CBD, meaning location is a big drawcard here. The Quarter is another great option, located very close to office spaces. There are a number of units (one-bed and two-beds) together with a stunning penthouse which has a rooftop terrace and deck. People are loving the hustle and bustle of De Waterkant with its numerous coffee shops, restaurants and eclectic stores."

Looking closer to the city bowl, you will also find a number of really fantastic new developments advises Simony. ''We have a couple of units at 117onStrand which are not VAT-inclusive, namely a one-bedroom open plan unit and two-bedroom with incredible views of the mountain and city centre. The building is an inner-city development that offers luxury living, 24-hour security, there is a Pick 'n Pay underneath as well as a state-of-the-art Planet Fitness Signature Club on site.''

The brand new 16onBree, meanwhile, is the tallest residential development in Cape Town. In the heart of Bree Street, one of the most popular strips in Cape Town, with its art galleries, restaurants, and bars, making in a constant hive of activity, the 16onBree development is perfectly situated for those looking to feed off the energy of the Cape Town CBD. Offering a range of units - from one-bedroom units to three-bedroom penthouses - residents also have access to a swimming pool, outdoor gym and a day creche.

Finally, if you are looking for that perfect city-based penthouse, look no further than The Onyx. There is a real energy to the location, with The Onyx offering a luxurious slice of city living with all the amenities - restaurant, bar, pool, gym, spa and secure parking - and none of the drawbacks - traffic? What traffic? Noise? Not a peep once you're inside. The Agency Property Group have listed the last remaining penthouse available in the building.

''This is a beautiful unit with a rooftop terrace and private swimming pool. And with the location being such a big drawcard (within walking distance to the CTICC and 5min shuttle to the V&A Waterfront) and with such incredible amenities, we are sure this will move quickly,'' says Lynn.

It's fantastic to be seeing such a strong - and positive - interest in new developments and with the above in mind, it's certainly encouraging to see so many on offer in Cape Town. For more information on these developments and the units on offer, visit: www.theagencygroup.co.za or get in touch with us here.