While location, facilities, and lifestyle remain high on the list of priorities for South African property investors, security remains a major contributing factor when deciding on where to invest – particularly when considering retirement investments. However, buyers are encouraged to assess not only the level of security, but the type of security measures and procedures in place as well.
The latest quarterly crime statistics released by Police Minister Bheki Cele have shown an increase in serious crimes, including a worrying 8.6% jump in home robberies and a 7.4% increase in home burglaries. Commenting on this trend, Cele said: “While these crime figures we are releasing today don’t paint an overall positive picture of the crime situation in our country, they do however show that police are pushing back on criminality.”
“The private sector support of the South African Police Service (SAPS) is vital in addressing crime levels, particularly home safety in residential areas and estates,” explained Jonathan Acutt, Managing Director of Acutts Real Estate. “We are certainly seeing a trend in which more people are aware of the need for secure living, and they’re asking the right questions about the safety measures in place. At the end of the day, security means peace of mind, allowing residents to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle without unnecessary anxiety and stress.”
According to Acutt, these are some of the best security measures buyers should be asking about when it comes to property in residential estates.
1. Entrenched collaboration
An effective safety and security system involves all role players, from SAPS, private security companies, and armed response units, to local government and community organisations such as the Community Police Forum. Estates that prioritise such collaborative engagement, that meet regularly with all stakeholders, and keep the residents informed, are more likely to provide the required safety for homeowners.
2. Perimeter Security
There is a reason that estate living is so in demand in South Africa – perimeter security means residents enjoy peace of mind and freedom to use the facilities and amenities without restriction. A secure, electrified perimeter with anti-dig alarms is the baseline for home security with high-tech, thermal-vision cameras a must. Modern estates are adopting clear-view fencing and unobtrusive security measures that blend into the natural environment to achieve a sense of safety without feelings of ‘enclosure’. There are also biometric access points for ease of flow while maintaining optimum security.
3. 24-hour, on-site security
Another important security feature is a private security company that patrols the estate, day and night, while also monitoring the security cameras and attending to emergencies as soon as they arise. Residents are well-advised to ask about the security reaction time, as well as options like panic buttons around the home or accessible via mobile devices.
“Attaining that balance of unobtrusive security is quite a skill, but estates like Renishaw Hills have managed to achieve this, offering residents of this mature lifestyle estate with an unrestricted, nature-based lifestyle,” continued Acutt.
This Scottburgh-based mature lifestyle village forms part of the 2.6-million-square-metre Renishaw Coastal Precinct.
This is the first development within the mixed-use precinct which is set to include residential, retail, educational, healthcare and light industrial/commercial zones. Residents enjoying the state-of-the-art security of Renishaw Hills enjoy access to high-end facilities, extensive nature trails, and welcoming communities for retirees.
Renishaw Hills has just launched Phase 6, a series of high-end maisonettes boasting spectacular sea views and houses surrounded by coastal greenery. Start a new adventure by booking an in-person or virtual tour or visit any weekend for the Open Day. Email info@renishawhills.co.za or visit www.renishawhills.co.za
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