You know the old saying: your home is your castle. By choosing a secure area, you can give yourself a sanctuary. Boksburg, with its affordable properties, amenities, and convenient East Rand location, has always been popular. And if you value safety, it's also worth considering. That's the word from Savas Nicolaides, Century 21 Boksburg Principal.
Boksburg, a safe East Rand city
According to Nicolaides, the security situation in South Africa has become a matter of concern for buyers and renters. There has been a definite shift to living in secure estates and close-knit complexes in the country. Boksburg is a viable option for those who want to remain near dense urban areas like Johannesburg but still enjoy the best of quiet suburban living.
"While I would not say Boksburg does not have that absolute stigma, it has many safe areas," says Nicolaides. "Being a developed magisterial district with a key national asset i.e. OR Tambo International Airport, it gets extra attention from authorities."
When looking for a safe area in Boksburg, Nicolaides points to places where there are no "open" or "vacant" lands that bring in the elements. You should also consider suburbs away from the CBD.
Boksburg's safest suburbs
Buyers and renters searching for tranquillity will have their pick in Boksburg. Nicolaides highlights five areas that have a solid reputation.
1. Parkrand: This suburb has a vibrant community spirit. Of note, is the Parkrand Goju Karate Academy which teaches self-defence and hosts first aid and CPR classes.
2. Libradene: With good highway access, Libradene lies in a prime location in Boksburg. The suburb has a well-maintained park, Issy Kramer Park, which provides a welcome space for children to play.
3. Beyers Park: The area has a number of takeaway restaurants, quaint guesthouses, and a beautiful green space in Boet Human Park. Jacaranda FM once chose the suburb to host a street braai.
4. Bartlett: The suburb has something for everyone with a range of lock-up-and-go style apartments, spacious houses, and secure complexes.
5. Sunward Park: With lots of large, luxuriously built family homes, Sunward Park is ideal if you're looking for upmarket living in Boksburg.
Factors making Boksburg safe
Nicolaides says Boksburg's safety is boosted by the inclusion of enclosed gated areas within the city. There is a strong anti-crime presence by local police, Community Policing Forums, and neighbourhood watch groups. AfriForum Boksburg and Boksburg North CPF Sector Four recently formed a partnership to make Boksburg safer and uplift the community, having collaborated successfully on a number of projects.
Boksburg's estates, complexes, developments, and homes are generally well equipped to keep residents protected. During your property search, Nicolaides identifies some of the typical security features you will find:
- Guards at entrances
- Boomed-off areas with restricted access
- Certain closures after hours
- High-tech alarm systems
- Burglar bars
- Security doors
- Cameras
"A property professional can help you find a home that meets your unique security requirements," says Nicolaides. "You should make a list and we can use this to pinpoint one best suited to your requirements."
Safety tips for Boksburg home viewings
Home viewings remain a popular and effective way for buyers and renters to get a feel for a potential property. It also helps sellers better market their homes. Nicolaides says Century 21 Boksburg agents take extra care to keep everyone safe during the experience.
"We always advise our agents to arrive 5-10 minutes early so we are ready to greet potential buyers and renters. We also inform sellers/lessors to be aware of their personal belongings and have the local policing on standby if need be."
Century 21 Boksburg agents also follow strict COVID-19 protocols from daily screening checks, gaining consent, to providing clear property condition directives to sellers.
Enjoy easy living in Boksburg
Besides safety, Nicolaides emphasises the other benefits Boksburg provides home-seekers. It is close to OR Tambo International Airport, boasts a range of amenities, and offers families well-respected schools for their children to build bright futures. Price-conscious buyers will also appreciate that Boksburg is priced better per square metre than areas west of Boksburg.
"The simple fact is that Boksburg is a more budget-friendly area to live in than Western Suburbs," says Nicolaides. "Yet, it stills provides quick access to Sandton and metropolitan areas."
Make well-located and secure Boksburg your home with Century 21 Boksburg. View our properties for sale and to let, and contact us today.