For the go-getter in you - the one who lives, works, and plays with unbridled enthusiasm - there's one place that knows how to keep up. Sandton is a playground, offering plenty of things to do when the mood strikes. And with that, the area is drawing in the crowd, from young professionals craving the hustle and bustle, families building memories, retirees enjoying some much-deserved leisure, entrepreneurs crafting success, and even celebrities enjoying the limelight.
Behind Sandton's appeal
While the big trend post-COVID was semigration to coastal areas, many home-seekers are moving back to Johannesburg. David Savage, Director at Century 21 Sandton, says Africa's richest square mile, in particular, is at the top of that list. "Sandton is the financial hub of South Africa and home to investment banks, convention centres, and head offices. It remains an attractive area to build a career or grow a business," he explains.
With its never-stop pulse and striking skyscraper skyline, Savage says the area is South Africa's New York. "People love the buzz and vibe of Sandton. It provides city living at its best. You can find properties that suit every taste, secure suburbs, and a range of amenities. The area has a magnetic pull thanks to its abundant shopping malls, world-class restaurants, vibrant nightclubs, and exceptional entertainment facilities."
Things to do in Sandton
When it's time to put away the business suit or get the family together for a day out, Sandton's activities and attractions never disappoint. Buyers and renters in the area have plenty to do:
- Get some retail therapy at Sandton City, Mandela Square, Sunninghill Village Shopping Centre, The MARC, Lonehill Shopping Centre, and Rivonia Village.
- Savour every bite and sip at The Grillhouse Sandton, Saint Restaurant, San Deck, Trumps Grillhouse & Butchery, The Codfather, The Big Mouth, and Rockets Bryanston.
- Dance the night away at Taboo Night Club, ONYX Michelangelo Towers, and Booth Night Club.
- Hit a hole-in-one at The River Club Golf Course, The Bryanston Country Club, Morningside Country Club, and The Wanderer Golf Club.
- Shop the handcrafted treasures at Field Market and Bryanston Market.
- Pamper your mind, body, and soul at Vilai-lai Day Spa, Sanctuary Spa Sandton, Camelot Spa, Orient Spa, Africology Spa Sandton, Renaissance Day Spa, Life Day Spa Sandton and Fourways, and Mowana Spa.
- Head into the glorious outdoors at Innesfree Park, Ernest Ullmann Recreation Centre, Rietfontein Nature Reserve, Lonehill Nature Reserve, and Norscot Koppies Nature Reserve.
- Have a family adventure at Jozi X, Cycle Lab Bike Park, Mushroom Farm Park, BOUNCE Fourways, Lostland Escape Room, and the German Country Club.
- Enjoy gaming thrills at The Marco Polo and Montecasino.
- Go to unmissable events at the Sandton Convention Centre and the DP World Wanderers Stadium.
With so much to offer, Sandton is a fantastic choice for those looking to put down roots. The property market has a range of properties from lock-up-and-go apartments, secure townhouses, to tranquil estate homes.
Savage says interested buyers are in a great position to find a bargain in the area. "At present, owners are under pressure considering the higher interest rates and increase in municipal rates, taxes, and levies over the past three years," he says. "Some owners are unfortunately unable to afford their properties anymore, meaning there's more supply than demand. As property prices are under pressure, the buyer's market can work in the favour of savvy home-seekers."
For those on the property hunt, Savage offers these tips:
- Don't rush your decision: Rather spend time finding a property professional you can connect with and build trust. They can help you find a home within your budget and that fits your needs while guiding you through the home-buying process.
- Tour the market: See as many properties as you can as there will be multiple sellers in every complex or road. You'll be able to get a feel for the market and make an informed decision on what you really want.
- Be ready to negotiate: As this is a buyer's market, you have the advantage. Start with low offers until you find what you want. The seller might be willing to drop their price to secure the sake.
- Make an informed choice: Sectional titles are the most popular option for Sandton buyers. For this type, you should thoroughly check the complex or apartment building's rules and look over the financials of the corporate body.
Partner with local property professionals
At the end of the day, Savage believes the best piece of advice is to place your trust in property professionals who know the area like Century 21 Sandton. "Our real estate agency is blessed with a mix of energetic young practitioners and experienced older practitioners (over 50 years combined across all practitioners). The team are absolute experts in their respective territories, which will give buyers a holistic understanding of everything when exploring their areas and not just the properties they're purchasing."