The picturesque Somerset West suburb of Rome Glen is seeing strong demand from family buyers, coupled with a significant rise in property values. Pam Golding Properties (PGP) reports that the suburb, which was established in 1988, has reached maturity, with most plots developed and its tranquil streets now lined with fully-grown trees. Almost every home enjoys views of either the Helderberg, Schapenberg or Hottentots Holland mountains, or False Bay, or in many cases, both.
PGP agent Gail Gould says over the course of 2012, 12 properties changed hands in Rome Glen, at an average price of R1.737 million. That figure rose quite substantially in 2013 to 16 properties sold, at an average price of R2.196 million. (source –Lighstone).
“This rise in value is not surprising given the demand for affordable family homes which are located close to good schools and amenities, and which offer a wholesome and secure lifestyle,” says PGP’s area manager for Somerset West, Louise Varga. “Residents of Rome Glen have the best of both worlds – a small suburb of just 250 homes and only nine streets, with a single access road and no commercial activity whatsoever apart from two B&B’s, ensuring a quiet, family-friendly environment.”
“On the other hand,” Varga continues, “amenities are all located within easy reach, including the private Vergelegen Medi-Clinic just down the road, all major shopping in the Somerset West town centre, just 2km away, and several excellent schools within a 5km range. These include Beaumont Primary, Somerset House Primary and the Helderberg International School, as well as Parel Vallei High School, which was rated 11th in the Western Cape based on its 2013 matric results. A new shopping centre is also under construction on Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, just 2km away, which is due for completion in 2015.”
Another appealing factor is the suburb’s location on the northern slope of the Schapenberg, which ensures it is protected from the prevailing south-easterly winds in summer. Gould says there is also a large central park area with beautiful views of the Helderberg, frequented by many families for recreation and picnics. The suburb is bordered on three sides by the Boskloof Eco-Estate, Morgenster Wine estate and private agricultural land, creating a semi-rural atmosphere with prolific birdlife and no through-traffic.
Rome Glen consists primarily of free-standing family homes on plots between 800sqm and 1400sqm. Prices in the suburb range from around R1.8 million for some of the older, smaller homes, while more modern family homes are priced from R2.2 million upward, depending on their finishes and views. Many of the newer properties have been built with an energy-efficient, modern design, adding to their appeal and their prices. The highest price ever achieved in the suburb (by any agency) was R2.5 million for a home sold in September 2013. Gould adds that there are around 15 vacant plots still available for purchase, ranging in price from R800 000 to R1.1 million.
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