Monday 20 February 2012

Southern Tip-Soetendalsvlei Relay Race

14 May, 2011


We would like to make you aware of the new relay race that is being planned for the Southern Tip weekend in May 2011. This relay race will consist of running, mountain biking, and canoeing. It developed from the successful Southern Tip Fun Run/Fun Walk on 15 May 2010 organized by the Bredasdorp Athletics Club. Southern Tip Day, 16 May, is an initiative by Agulhas National Park to commemorate the history of the Southernmost Tip of Africa, the impact shipping and shipwreck survivors have had on the local area, and the victims who lost their lives along the Cape Agulhas coastline. It is also linked to Bartolomeu Dias' sea voyage round the southern tip of Africa. In 1488 Bartolomeu Dias turned back after he failed to reach the East in search of a trading route. On his return journey, on the 16 May, he passed a certain flat piece of land. He named this “Ponte de Sao Brendao”, after an Irish monk, St Brendan, whose festival day it was.

The relay race will take place in the Park and the neighbouring NuweJaars Special Management Area. The run, approximately 14 km, starts at the new Agulhas Restcamp, and goes through the Park in the direction of Soetendalsvlei. The canoeing is approximately 13km and takes place on the Soetendalsvlei and the Nuwejaars River. The mountain biking is approximately 35km, starting at Soetendalsvlei, crossing the Soetanys Mountain and ending at the Cape Agulhas Lighthouse.
You put your own team together consisting of a paddler, mountain biker and runner. For more information please contact Giel De Kock, 028 435 6078 (Mon to Fri, 8h00 to 16h00).


Agriculture in the Overberg

The Rural Overberg and country areas of the Southern Cape



The Overberg, an area to the west of the Southern Cape in South Africa, was named by the settlers who crossed its mountains by horse and ox wagon en route from Cape Town to the interior.
Literally translated, Overberg means “over the mountain”, an apt description for a paradisical area surrounded by blue mountain ranges and undulating hills in a kaleidoscope of gold, green and brown. Bordering the Cape Peninsula, the Overberg never fails to delight even the most discerning, whether tourists, botanists, hikers, photographers, historians, bird watchers or anglers.

With its Mediterranean climate of hot summers and mild winters, there is something for everyone. Endless beaches and dunes underpin a thriving tourist sector, while farmers and those wishing to escape the rat race may turn their hands to a variety of extremely viable agricultural activities. These include the cultivation of flowers, fruit and vegetable farming, vineyard, grain and pasture production, cattle, sheep and ostrich farming and horse breeding. Fresh water is abundant, and found at both the foot of the mountains and in the Zoetendalsvlei Lake near Struisbaai, the second largest fresh water lake in South Africa. This makes irrigation and aquaculture extremely feasible in an environment which is pollution-free and delicately perfumed with the fragrance of the natural vegetation along with mountain and sea air.

 Officially recognized as the Cape’s Floral Kingdom ...

The Overberg, an area approximately 100 km wide and 200 km long, is home to 175 000 residents. Major towns in the area include Caledon, which boasts its own casino, Bredasdorp with its large population of scientists and professional people who work for the Denel Corporation, Swellendam, which is the historical heart of the Overberg, and coastal resorts such as Hermanus and Struisbaai.

A good infrastructure of tarred roads, medical facilities and schools is complemented by a full range of leisure offerings such as golf, tennis, squash, bowls, cycling and running. Tourism has become a flourishing industry and over the years, a number of Overberg guest houses have received national recognition for excellence. Nature parks in the area include the Bontebok National Park near Swellendam on the banks of the Breede River, the 18 000 hectare L’Agulhas National Park and the De
Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve.
Well known throughout the world for its beautiful beaches and excellent angling, the Overberg has also found fame as the region that includes the southernmost tip of Africa, namely at L’Agulhas, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. It is also the site of South Africa’s second oldest lighthouse, and a favourite spot for people across the globe to watch the Southern Right Whales calve. Officially recognized as the Cape’s Floral Kingdom, the Overberg with its unique fynbos vegetation is the only complete kingdom of this nature to be
found in a single country. Yet, despite being the smallest such entity in the world, comprising just 0, 06% of the earth’s surface, it is the richest of the world’s six plant kingdoms.


This natural paradise includes 8 700 species, of which 68% are endemic. Almost 75% of the plants listed in the South African Red Data Book are to be found here, of which 1 700 are endangered. There are also more than 300 species or 21 000 of migrant and resident wetland birds in the area, an amount equal to 40% of South Africa’s bird population. It is home, too, to the country’s national bird, the Blue Crane and its national flower, the Protea.
The Overberg region borders the Cape Peninsula and is therefore close to Cape Town and its International Airport, which is considered by many to be the finest in Africa. People have lived here in harmony for many generations and embrace the peace and common destiny that defines the new South Africa.

Click Here to Visit our joint venture Partner's website.

Overberg Attractions

Agulhas National Park
The Agulhas National Park offers visitors several nature trails, an environmental education centre and a world-class museum. Among the many other attractions in the park you’ll find the southern most tip of Africa, the famous Agulhas lighthouse and various interesting shipwrecks. Tourists also flock to this fascinating location to view the abundant fynbos of the area.

De Hoop Nature Reserve This reserve is situated east of Bredasdorp and is about 34 000ha in size. The De Hoop Marine Protected Area is located next to the reserve and stretches around three nautical miles (5 km) out to sea. The reserve can be explored on four walking trails, an 11km circular drive, on mountain bikes or while snorkelling in the clear rock pools. Whale watching is one of the highlights at the reserve where 120 Southern Right Whales return to the coast annually to mate and calve.

Shark Cage Diving Situated around 50 km from Struisbaai you’ll find Gansbaai. Thousands of adrenaline junkies flock to this fisherman’s village to come face to face with the Great White Shark. Shark diving is a major attraction in the Overberg and includes up close and personal encounters with sharks from the safety of a boat or while in a cage under water.

The Blue Crane South Africa’s national bird, the Blue Crane, is indigenous to southern Africa, with more than 99% of the population occurring within South Africa. In the town of Napier in the Overberg one can often see these fascinating birds gathered together in large flocks.

Shipwreck Museum in Bredasdorp The museum draws crowds from all over the world and pays tribute to the estimated 250 vessels and 2500 people that lost their lives on the southern most coastline of Africa. The museum is housed in a historical building in the centre of Bredasdorp where a series of scale models demonstrates the death throes of a ship. The bulk of the exhibits are the artefacts and remains from four of the area's biggest wrecks, notably the Arniston, the Birkenhead, the Queen of the Thames and the Oriental Pioneer.

Struisbaai, Arniston, Napier and Suiderstrand Property


Property in Struisbaai is known for its location in a rustic seaside setting that offers all the peace and quiet that tranquil contemplation demands. The area is essentially a fishing village that boasts the longest stretch of beach in the entire southern hemisphere, let alone South Africa. In fact, all told there are 14 kilometres of endless pristine beach that provide safe bathing, boating and angling opportunities. 

 This part of the Overberg’s main claim to fame is the historical fishermen’s cottages at Hotagterklip and the thatch roof church, which have both been declared national monuments. A charter company offers great white shark viewing off the coast, as well as deep sea fishing and wreck diving. If you are after a sublime and rewarding life by the sea then property for sale in Struisbaai could be just what you’re looking for.
Property in Arniston is unique in that it is found in the Overberg village with two names, the other being Waenhuiskrans. The area is known to be picturesque, with azure blue ocean stretching into the distance, rolling sand dunes and quaint fishermen’s cottages with lime washed walls and thatched roofs. Like Struisbaai, Arniston is home to a fishing village, Kassiesbaai that has been declared a national monument and little seems to have changed here in the last 200 odd years. The sea is safe for swimming and the sand dunes provide residents with plenty of opportunity to amuse themselves, which is just one of the features attracting investors in Arniston property for sale.

Property in Napier is similar to that in Bredasdorp in that it is made up primarily of farm land and smallholdings, with the region’s economic focus on agriculture. The area sits at the foot of the Soetmuisberg and is surrounded by rolling fields of wheat and barley. Established in 1838, the region still carries an old world charm that makes it attractive to investors looking for a sense of history in their residential retreat. The Dutch Reformed Church here has a rather unusual architectural design with a teak interior. The Feeshuis is a historical building that was restored in 1988 to celebrate the town’s 150th anniversary. There are plenty of museums and old buildings to be found in the area, which will no doubt interest those of invest in property for sale in Napier.

The small village of Suiderstrand is the Cape Agulhas Region’s best-kept secret. It is located just west of the southern most tip of Africa on the Atlantic Ocean side. Property in Suiderstrand is completely surrounded by the Agulhas National Park and the sprawling waters of the ocean. The area is famous for its many coastal walks, pebble bays, rock pools and a marine lagoon. Eco-tourist flock to this untouched location to take in the spectacular views of nature and sightings of the endangered African Black Oystercatcher.
More info on Overberg Attractions

Bredasdorp Property | Area Info


Property in Bredasdorp is primarily in the form of farm land and smallholdings, with a focus on agriculture the driving force behind the region’s economy. The town was established in 1828 on the Langefontein farm as a centre for the Dutch Reformed Church. The area takes its name from Michiel van Breda, a local farmer who promoted the initial implementation of the project.

There is an interesting tale concerning the construction of two churches and the subsequent development of two separate towns, namely Bredasdorp and Napier, which transpired after Van Breda and another influential personality at the time, Van der Byl could not agree on where the church should be built. The area has since become a hub for dairy, wool and wheat farming in South Africa’s Western Cape region. Of historical interest to those interested in Bredasdorp property for sale is the ancient milkwood tree at Rhenosterfontein that has since been declared a national monument.

The area is home to the Bredasdorp Shipwreck Museum, which is a testament to the stormy weather on the coast that has resulted in countless ships being wrecked. In fact, the official number stands at more than 120 ships and the museum is housed in the original farmhouse, being the only one of its kind in South Africa. The Heuningberg Nature Reserve is located at the foot of a mountain range and boasts the stunning red lily native to the region and a variety of fynbos species. With such an interesting history, fertile soil and stunning surroundings, it’s no wonder that investors are so attracted to property in Bredasdorp.

Welcome to the Overberg


Welcome to the Overberg



Welcome to the wonderful Overberg, with its acres of fynbos, rolling waves and heavenly beaches. To a place that offers something for everyone who appreciates the unique natural beauty of the Western Cape, and outings to wine farms where wine tasting and delectable meals are the order of the day … where time takes on a more gentle meaning in its character-filled towns and villages. Welcome!

Struisbaai
Struisbaai is a pretty seaside village with a coastline that boasts the longest continuous stretch of white sand in the Southern Hemisphere. A paradise for kitesurfers and those who love water sports and the sea, it’s also bliss for bird lovers.

L’Agulhas
The meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, L'Agulhas sits at the very tip of the legendary foot of Africa. Its location and official status as the southernmost town on the African continent has established it as a prime tourist destination.

Suiderstrand
Suiderstrand, home to less than 400 houses, lies five kilometres to the west of L'Agulhas. Completely surrounded by the Cape Agulhas National Park, it’s a paradise of fynbos and birdlife.

Bredasdorp
The sleepy little agricultural town of Bredasdorp nestles in the midst of a peaceful landscape dotted with sheep farms and wheat fields, not far from L’Agulhas. Despite its rural vibe, it’s in the process of building an excellent shopping mall with anchor tenants such as Checkers, Clicks and Wimpy and a range of other outlets.

Napier
Originally regarded as an Afrikaans “dorp”, beautiful Napier has, in recent years, established itself as an artists’ community” on par with famous Greyton. Take drive through to see its home made offerings and don’t forget to stop at its famed goat’s milk factory or for a scrumptious, home made tea at one of its quaint eateries.

Arniston
Arniston, one of Mother Nature’s favourite offspring, has something to offer those who want to ‘get away from it all’. Filled with old world charm, it’s the place to watch whales frolic in the bay or enjoy snorkelling or diving around its shipwrecks. Mountain bikers can explore the area to their hearts’ content while sun worshippers can soak up the rays on unspoilt beaches. Then, when hunger bites, choose one of its delightful little restaurants to feast on fresh-caught seafood and a glass or two.

Overberg Property | Area Info


Property in the Overberg is without a doubt some of the most ideally situated in terms of its prime location in beautiful natural surroundings. The Overberg is essentially an expanse of land in South Africa’s Western Cape that lies on the southernmost tip of the African continent and stretches from the Hottentots Holland Mountains in the west to Swellendam in the east and from the Riviersonderend Mountains in the north to the Atlantic and Indian Oceans in the south.

Those interested in Overberg property for sale will find the surrounding area covered in golden wheat, stunning forests and fragrant indigenous fynbos, all enclosed in the majestic hug of mountains in the north, east and west of the region. If this isn’t enough then there is always the mesmerizing ocean rolling out for miles on end in the south that promises a rugged coastline filled with the possibility of amusement and adventure. Anyone who owns property here has access to healthy walks in the mountains, kloofs and all along the coast.
The Bontebok National Park near Swellendam and the De Hoop Nature Reserve near Waenhuiskrans / Arniston boast one of the rarest antelope species in South Africa – the bontebok. Also found here are mountain zebra, red hartebeest, eland and various other smaller antelope species. There is even the possibility that one will see a leopard, but sightings are rare considering the animal’s preference for nocturnal activities. Perhaps one of the most attractive features about the Overberg region is the fact that there are no cities, only lush landscape dotted with towns and villages, each offering a unique history and cultural delights. There really is no doubt why Cape Town’s investors are so interested in Overberg property

Area Info for: Overberg


The Overberg region of the Western Cape
Struisbaai is a coastal village in the Overberg that boasts the longest stretch of white sand coastline in the Southern Hemisphere, extending an unbelievable 8km. The fishermen's cottages at Hotagterklip have been declared national monuments and are often featured in the paintings of South African artists. The beautiful surrounding landscape and the ideal seaside lifestyle offered in these parts make Struisbaai, together with the neighbouring communities of Hotagterklip and Molshoop, a popular choice for holiday property investment along the coastline up to Cape Agulhas.

Overberg Properties for Sale 

The various houses for sale in the Overberg generally display a quaint, authentic appeal, but with the area ever-increasing in popularity there are a number of more modern developments and contemporary homes that have sprung up in recent times. Whether it's a quiet life by the sea that you're interested in or you're simply looking to buy a farm or smallholding in one of the Western Cape's most beautiful areas, Realty1 Cape Agulhas is bound to have just the right property for you.
The Realty 1 Cape Agulhas franchise currently consists of the Struisbaai and Bredasdorp offices. The first serves the Struisbaai, L'Agulhas and Suiderstrand areas, while the other serves the Bredasdorp, Arniston and Napier region. While property prices continue to rise with national trends, Overberg property investment offers excellent value for money, particularly in comparison to other popular areas in the Western Cape.


More info on the Overberg...
More info on Bredasdorp...

 

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Meet the Team


Realty 1 Cape Agulhas

Strepies van wyk  (Principal)
“Strepies has been working as a professional in the property industry since November 1992. She has won numerous top agent awards while working for one of the largest estate agency groups in South Africa. Her extensive knowledge of the Cape Agulhas area hugely contributes to the success of Realty 1 Cape Agulhas.”

Mobile: +27 0828016154


 
Anita van Zyl  (Selling Agent)
Anita was a teacher when her hubby started a restaurant. After 14 years in the hospitality industry (and all 4 kids on their own) started with Realty 1 in Bredasdorp because she loves working with people and has been living in this Overberg town for 22 years.

Mobile: +27 0827439575


 
Piet van Wyk  (Selling Agent)
Piet farmed for 20 yrs in the Bredasdorp district and decided to qualify himself as a financial planner. With his strong financial background over the past 18 years he held the position of Financial Planner for Old Mutual and currently PSG Konsult. He registered at the EAAB in 2000 as an real estate consultant and is NQF4 qualified. He played a vital role over the past six years as one of the directors of Realty 1 Cape Agulhas. With a personal and professional hands-on business approach you will be assured that with his experience and background you will get the best advice for your property investment.

                          Mobile: +27 0828973401

 Sarina van der Westhuizen  (Selling Agent)
Sarina has been working in the property industry since 2001. She grew up in the Cape Agulhas region. After school she received diplomas for Business Computing as well as for International Hotel Management but found her passion in the property industry.

Mobile: +27 0844333514

 
 

Susan Arries  (Selling Agent)
I've joined the Realty 1 team in 2006 and I love every minute of it. I'm doing the admin and is also selling houses from November last year. Admin and Agent at Bredasdorp 028 425 1182

Mobile: +27 0735262708



  
Wessel van Zyl  (Selling Agent)
Mobile: +27 0845492917

 

Birding in Cape Agulas


Birding, like gardening has its seasons: one could consider winter as the quiet season since the summer migrants are missing and will not be back with us until October. We are fortunate, however, in the Agulhas area, to have a sizeable list of sought-after birds, some of which appear on the globally threatened list, which are with us all the year round. This includes Denham’s Bustard, Black Harrier, African Marsh Harrier, Blue Crane, KAROO Koran, Grey-winged Francolin, Long-billed Pipit, Agulhas Long-billed Lark, and Agulhas Clapper Lark, not forgetting the sunbirds, those jewels of the bird world : Malachite, Greater and Lesser Double-collared and Orange-breasted (another “special” for this area).

The Overberg region is good raptor country; species which one can look out for at this time of year include Secretary bird, Jackal Buzzard, and African Harrier Hawk (Gymnogene). The latter seem to favour gum trees for roosting and nesting: a pair has been raising a family in a group of these trees which we can see from our window in Napier and are now busy causing mayhem amongst the local chicken population!
The Overberg Wheat belt, now glorious in its winter colours and textures of waving green wheat interspersed with patches of brilliant yellow canola, is home to such species as Cape Crow, Large-billed and Red-capped Larks, Capped Wheatear, Cape Long claw, African Pied Starling and Pin-tailed Whydah ( that little bird with great “attitude”) to name but a few.

Now to “Forthcoming Attractions”: the fynbos is already starting to show signs of bursting into full bloom in the coming month and whilst the flora grabs your attention, be aware of the birds in its midst such as Cape Sugarbird, Cape Francolin, Cape Bulbul and rare Cape Siskin, not forgetting the above-mentioned Orange Breasted Sunbird which is associated with the Erica’s, and the Bokmakerie. If you are by the sea, the months of August to October are most rewarding for pelagic birding. Keep an eye on the Springfield saltpans (off the Springfield/Brandfontein road) for the return of the Greater and Lesser Flamingos.
Hopefully you are now all fired up to go out and do some birding so don’t forget that the second Sasol Agulhas Birding Weekend will take place in Agulhas National Park on30 October TO the1 November. This promises to be a great event with guest speaker”. Please contact us for further details.


Read more about birding for beginners

Birding for Beginners


Bird watching is much like stamp collecting - you really don’t appreciate it until you already have some stamps in your collection to admire and compare the more you acquire especially if they are colorful or really unusual or rare, the more motivated you are to continue collecting. Birds, though, unlike stamps, are three- dimensional and alive. They exploit the sky and almost every other habitat on earth they fly vast distances sin feed court and breed all in front of the bird watchers eyes.

Bird watching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in SA.This ever increasing interest in SA birds, both by local and foreign enthusiasts is reflected in the diversity of new material continually being devoted to the subject from books magazines and websites and high-tech CD-rooms. Books are undoubtedly one of the most popular and necessary of this items and cater for a diverse readership from to young children and laymen to enthusiastic and knowledgeable amateurs and professionals in the field of ornithology.
Why is Birding additive? Here are some drugs to get you birding:
  • Blue Cranes perform elegant dances before the court
  • Rosy-faced Lovebirds: when building there nests these remarkable birds carry their nesting material in their feathers on their backs
  • Palm-Swifts glue their nests together with sticky saliva?
  • Many birders may have come across bird eggs while in the field but do they know why some birds lay speckled eggs, while the eggs of others species are pure white or even bright blue in color? Or why some eggs are round while others are distinctly pointed at one end?
  • Learning the secret of flight from a bird was a good deal like learning the secret of magic from a magician.

Voet van Afrika Marathon


8 Oktober 2006 het Realty 1 Kaap Agulhas die bekende Voet van Afrika ondersteun deur ‘n spannetjie in te skryf vir die 5km Toontjie wat die Vrydag plaasgevind het.Die spannetjie het hulself verbaas om te sien hoe lank hul voor die afsnytyd ingekom het en dat elk ‘n medalje ontvang het. Alhoewel die spannetjie stywerig was die volgende dag, het hulle met baie entoesiasme gesê dat die span vanjaar weer hulle verskyning sal maak.




Die goues rol nog in!



Jan-Burger van Wyk het 14 tot 19 Oktober 2006 Suid Afrika by die 2de Internasionale WUSHU Tradisionele Kampioenskappe in Zhengzhou, China verteenwoordig. 66 Lande het deelgeneem, altesaam 2000 atlete. Jan-Burger het ‘n goue medalje in die spiesvorm-kategorie verower asook ‘n silwer in die
handvorm-kategorie. 

Baie geluk!

Life Skills Training



Realty1 has contracted Dr Gustav Gous to present Life Skills Training for leaders and agents in the company. It encompasses “The best people, working the best processes, produce the best results” according to Dr Gous.

Stepies and Omega are attending a year course in Pretoria and will, with their “sharpened saws” “shape the diamonds” of agents we already employ to your benefit as our valued clients.





Twee Oseane Marlyn Toernooi


Hierdie toernooi is aangebeid deur die Suidpunt Diepsee Hengelkub van 31 Januarie tot 3 Februarie 2007. Daar is na die toernooi verwys as ‘n “historiese gebeurtenis met historiese resultate”
Een van die borge, True Cape, het ‘n sak vol sokkerballe aan Raadslid Michael Dennis oorhandig om tussen skole in wyk 5 uit te deel.





Ongelukkig het twee visse dit nie oorleef nie. Die 'vleis' is aan Struisbaai Noord en Gods Gift, ‘n huis vir gestremdes, geskenk.
Realty 1 Cape Agulhas wil ook net aan Grant van der Westhuizen ‘n groot dankie sê vir al sy harde werk en reëlings om die toernooi suksesvol te kon help borg!

REALTY 1 CAPE AGULHAS RECEIVES AWARDS

The Realty 1 IPG National Awards Ceremony, which took place recently in Johannesburg, was an event which the group’s Cape Agulhas team will always remember.  Not only did principal Strepies van Wyk receive the award for Top Country Agent (Turnover) but her office was also recognised as the group's Top Country Franchise (for both units and commissions.)

        Carol van Wyk accepted the coveted award  on behalf 
of the team from  Hano Jacobs, Realty 1  IPG's Chief Operating Officer.


Om te verseker dat Realty 1 Kaap Agulhas se agente gemotiveerd bly in die uitdagende
eiendomsmark het die span onlangs 'n opleiding bygewoon in Hermanus wat gelei is deur die bekende motiveringsspreker Kobus Theron, direkteur van Maxima.  Die dag is moontlik gemaak deur Dykes van Heerden en IEASA Weskaap.

V.l.n.r: Louis Slabbert (Dykes van Heerden), Strepies
van Wyk, Kobus Theron (Direkteur van Maxima)







The Southernmost Golf Course in Africa [10/3/2007]


After having recently met with the Developers of the much anticipated L’Agulhas Links golf Course Project, the team at Realty 1 IPG Cape Agulhas
is very excited about this prestigious project, which will surely have a substantial effect on the Region during the next few years.

Although the Developers will probably only announce the marketing and construction teams during the next month or two, it would appear that they area anxious to commence with construction of civil services
before the end of 2007.

We will keep all our clients posted with regards to further news on this exciting project.

Supporting our local Schools [10/3/2007]

Realty 1 Cape Agulhas regularly supports our local shools in various ways. On 10 May 2007 they sponsored the Sports Day of Bredasdorp High School against Robertson.


It was also a privilege for Realty 1 Cape Agulhas to be part of the Summer Sport Prestige Evening of Bredasdorp High School. This informal & social event highlighted the sport achievements of the highly talented scholars.

Realty 1 Cape Agulhas was a proud sponsor and contributed to the R42 000 raised at an auction evening towards the swimming pool project of Bredasdorp Primary School. An estimated R450 000 is required for the proposed upgrade which will entail a small pavilion, braai area, tuck shop, a deck and roof for officials. Donations are welcome and can be made to the school.

Exciting new development in Bredasdorp [10/3/2007]


This is true country lifestyle with absolute style and security. An exciting new development situated on the historic show grounds of Bredasdorp where the first show was held in February 1901. This town and its area is filled with a vivid history. Tales told about it’s interesting people, Merino sheep and horses. Like York, the horse that won the first Met in 1904.

Typical rural architecture with paved cobblestone paths, olive trees and stone storm water trenches. The silo structure, associated with this grain producing region will be the focus throughout the development.

Have a look on the De Oude Arena Website or contact our office for more information at 028 425 1182


Gesogte De Oude Arena in Bredasdorp bewaar ou perde- en skoukultuur Hugo Geldenhuys [6/11/2008]


De Oude Arena in Bredasdorp, Kaap Agulhas, bevestig dat goed beplande eiendomsontwikkelings, wat die omgewing, natuur en historiese erfenisse in ag neem, ten spyte van toenemende ekonomiese druk op die eiendomsmark, gesogte beleggings en verblyf bied vir diegene wat plattelandse rustigheid bo stadsgewoel verkies.

Die naam “De Oude Arena” is ontleen aan die hoof-arena van Bredasdorp se eertydse skouterrein wat enkele jare tevore in onbruik verval en aan die ontwikkelaar, Chianti Homes Edms Bpk, verkoop is. Die eerste skou het in 1901 op dié terrein plaasgevind en meer as ‘n eeu later het die skougenootskap besluit om dit met die jaarlikse Agri Mega Week in Bredasdorp te versmelt.

Die gemeenskap en perdeliefhebbers, wat hulle diere by die skouterrein gehuisves het, was aanvanklik skepties toe De Oude Arena op die historiese gronde aangekondig is. Hulle is gerusgestel toe die plattelandse plaaskarakter van die duplekskompleks en woonhuise bevestig het dat die historiese landbou- en perdekultuur van die terrein behoue sou bly.

Die eerste huise en eerste duplekskompleks nader voltooiing en Me Strepies van Wyk, Prinsipaal van Realty1 in Kaap Agulhas, staan bont om voornemende kopers en beleggers te ontvang. Sy meen die kultuurhistoriese vergestaltings in die wonings is treffend. “Argitek Chris de Hart het met die ontwerp van die duplekse en huise seker gemaak dat elke woning ‘n unieke karakter het. Daar is geen sprake van ‘n skemakultuur nie” sê Van Wyk.

Buite die eenheid herinner die afgewitte muur om De Oude Area aan ommuurde plaasopstalle van weleer. By die ingang, waar toegangsbeheer toegepas word is ‘n pragtige en veeldoelige gemeenskaplike gebou wat hoofsaaklik as museum van die ou skouterrein se kultuur- en geskiedeniserfenis sal dien.

Die museum bevestig die ontwikkelaar, Mnr Fanie Theron Besturende Direkteur van Chianti Homes, se vasberadenheid dat die grond in samehang met sy ryke verlede van legendariese persoonlikhede, gebruike en tradisies sal voortbestaan. Met weinig moeite kan die museum ook vir sosiale geleenthede en selfs as kapél vir troues aangewend word.

Voorts herinner die ingangsgebou en plaveistrate binne, aan die ingang en binnehof van die Kasteel in Kaapstad.

Tussen vier lanings huise wat veral die koring-, perde- en silokultuur van Kaap Agulhas verbeeld, lei plaveistrate met oop stormwatervore van klip na ‘n sentrale fontein. Weens die plaveipaaie, korbeelstene en gruissypaadjies wat ‘n uitgebreide gemeenskaplike tuin omring, is hedendaagse voertuie byna ongehoord en verwag ‘n rustige wandelaar eerder voetgangers en ruiters te perd. ‘n Gevoel wat versterk namate die beplande olyfboord, boomlanings en stalelemente en temas soos perdedrinkbakke tot stand kom.

Die ouwêreldse straattonele en plaasargitektuur word deur ‘n verskeidenheid muurteksture, wat wissel van rustiek, geverf, afgewitte kalkklip en rou mure, benadruk. Opvallend is die vensterelemente, stutmure en deure met stalhingsels vol verlede. Tipies van die koringkultuur is die silo-effek waarmee talle huise en die duplekskomplekse spog. Voor- en agterhowe bied inwoners besonderse ruimte en privaatheid.

Binne verseker ruimte, vuurherde en vertrekke wat óm die leefarea van eenvlakhuise geskik is, dat die plaasboustyl uiteindelik herleef. Die luuksheid en duursaamheid van die interieurs suggereer dat De Oude Arena se plaaskultuur en historiese aard nie almal beskore is nie. Tog is die eenhede puik geprys en kan dit vanaf R720,000 bekom word.

Volgens Mnr Fanie Theron is daar met sorg toegesien dat De Oude Arena by die natuur en aard van Bredasdorp inskakel en spog meeste wooneenhede met ‘n pragtige uitsig oor Soetmuisberg, die omliggende landelike gebied en natuurlik die skoonheid van die ontwikkeling self.

Me Strepies van Wyk vertel daar is vier duplekskomplekse, Suffolk, Lucitano, Pinto en Hackney; elk met 8 eenhede, dit wil sê 32 in totaal. Die twee slaapkamers en badkamer is bo. Onder is die kombuis en leefarea. Elke blok het twee eenhede met ‘n “silo”, wat as ‘n derde slaapkamer of as studeerkamer benut kan word. Me van Wyk sê heelwat van die duplekse is reeds verkoop en blyk gewild by enkel- en groepbeleggers te wees.

“Daar is 48 huise, met twee- of drieslaapkamers, met ‘n intreeprys van R1,100,000. Huise met ‘n “silo” bied die opsie van ‘n vierde slaapkamer of studeerkamer”, sê Van Wyk.

Mnr Fanie Theron sê die karakter van die huise en ontwikkeling is vas, maar dat kopers insette met die uitleg van hulle wonings kan lewer. “Afgesien van die enkelvlakhuise is daar ook dié met dubbelvlakke, waarvan die slaapkamers bo en die leefarea onder is.”

Volgens Me Strepies van Wyk is belangstelling in die huise uitstekend en is dit opvallend dat veral plaaslike kopers die veiligheidsaspek van De Oude Arena in gedagte het.

Onlangs het Harry Viljoen Eiendomme aangekondig dat hulle die stuk grond aanliggend tot De Oude Arena, vir die ontwikkeling van ‘n omvattende inkopiesentrum bekom het. Omdat De Oude Arena en die inkopiesentrum sy-aan-sy geleë is, het die onderskeie ontwikkelaars ooreengekom dat die sentrum dieselfde boustyl- en elemente sal navolg ten einde die gesogdheid van die uitbreidings te bewaar. Volgens hom sal die inkopiesentrum ‘n verskeidenheid bekende handelsname huisves en ook parkering vir sowat 300 voertuie voorsien.

Volgens Me Strepies Van Wyk reageer die eienaars van wonings by De Oude Arena uitstekend op die inkopiesentrum en meen hulle dat die holistiese ontwikkeling op die ou skougronde, van die nuwe eiendomme selfs beter beleggings maak.

“De Oude Arena is ‘n projek van hoop. Dit beteken baie vir die dorp en is ‘n hupstoot vir die totale sakesektor. Dit verleen erkenning aan die geskiedenis van Bredasdorp en landbou in die omgewing. Daar is baie werke geskep en 92% van die meer as 100 kontrakteurs en hulle werkers wat help ontwikkel en bou, is van Bredasdorp”.

Vir verdere inligting kan Me Strepies van Wyk van Realty 1 Kaap Agulhas by 028 – 435 6181 of 082 801 6154 of e-pos: strepies@realty1agulhas.com gekontak word.

KINGSLEY HOLGATE [8/13/2008]

Considered a bit of David Livingstone himself Kingsley Holgate the Grey Beard of African Adventure is one of Africa’s most colourful Modern day Explorers. Well known on local and National Geographic Television, Kingsley is also a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a well-known author. His adventures many of which are world firsts include his son Ross and wife Gill. As a family they completed a 1993 Cape to Cairo journey in open boats, the Zambezi and Congo Rivers in the footsteps of Livingstone and Stanley and a circumnavigation of Lake Turkana the world’s largest desert lake.

Following in the footsteps of the early explorers the Holgate family has survived countless attacks of Malaria, the threat of bandits, wild animals and the danger of unexploded landmines. Called ‘Extreme Latitude’ and travelling on foot, by bicycle, bullock cart, dugout and Land Rover Kingsley Holgate and his adventurous family have circumnavigated the world by land following the Tropic of Capricorn, a journey that became a seven part series on the National Geographic channel was highlighted in the Captain Morgan commercial and resulted in a successful book called “Following The Invisible Line – Capricorn”.

Kingsley Holgate and Grant van der Westhuizen of Oceant Art House B&B, L’Agulhas

REALTY 1 CAPE AGULHAS OPLEIDING [8/13/2008]

Ons glo “mens is nooit te oud om te leer nie!” Ons poog daarna dat ons agente so veel as moontlik kursusse en opleiding by woon. Die agente bly op hoogte van alles wat in die mark aangaan en kry ook nuwe bemarkingsmateriaal en idees. Die laaste opleiding is aangebied deur Cor Wesdorp en na die tyd is daar gesellig verkeer.




Voor: Strepies van Wyk (Prinsipaal), Wessel van Zyl, Cor Wesdorp (Opleier), Jan-Burger van Wyk. Agter: Piet van Wyk, Sarina van der Westhuizen, Adri Odendaal, Anita van Zyl, Richard Pratt. 






REALTY 1 Gala-evening [8/13/2008]


Neville McIntyre (CEO Jigsaw Holdings),
 Jan-Burger
On 14 July 2008, Richard Pratt and Jan-Burger van Wyk, represented Realty 1 Cape Agulhas at the yearly gala-event held at Monte Casino in Johannesburg. Prices were handed out for the best performing offices and agents in the country. Realty 1 Cape Agulhas won for the “Office of the year-Country-Units; Office of the year-Country-Commission; Top 10 Offices-Units; Top 10 Offices-Commission.” Richard Pratt came 2nd in “Top Country Agent-Rand Value. Both Richard and Jan-Burger had a wonderful evening.


Van Wyk; Mike Bester (CEO Realty 1) 


Trend Towards Rural Living Boosts Local Property Markets [8/13/2008]


Tired of living with crime and traffic, South Africans are increasingly looking at the smaller, rural towns as a permanent residential option. And there are many valid reasons for them to do so.  So says Mike Bester, CEO of Realty 1 International Property Group, whose regional offices are now regularly reporting stronger activity in the outlying areas.

“Not only is crime far less prevalent in the smaller centers”, said Bester, “but people moving to rural areas enjoy a less stressful lifestyle, wonderful scenery and greater personal freedoms than they do in the towns.

And the lifestyle is a bonus, says Bester. “The fact that in the smaller towns people know each other by first names means greater community spirit. It’s a more positive way of life for children to grow up in.”

AGULHAS OFFERS SEASIDE LIVING FOR 10% LESS THAN 2007 [1/6/2009]


For those who dream of replacing city living with a coastal lifestyle, Cape Agulhas, the little town at the southern-most tip of Africa, has a range of homes on offer for up to 10 percent less than they would have cost a year ago.

According to Strepies van Wyk, principal of Realty 1 International Property Group in Cape Agulhas, there are currently a number of excellent seaside (and nearby) buys in the area, which comprises Struisbaai, L’Agulhas, Arniston, Bredasdorp and Napier. These range from an affordable R325 000 to R11 000 000.

“They would all have sold for more in 2007 than their current asking price and will experience a renewed capital growth surge when the market regains its momentum, which we’re anticipating happening from April 2009,” she says.

Good vacant land buys include an elevated plot in a popular, established area, for R385 000. Similar pieces of land have sold for up to R550 000, she tells. For the well-heeled, there’s a rare 16.8ha small holding with 450 metres of seafrontage that extends up to the high water mark for R11million.

In the apartment sector, best buys include a four bedroom, two bathroom flat for R1, 25 million and a furnished first floor unit for R2, 45 million, both of which boast ocean views.

Bargains at entry level in the housing sector include a 153 m² three bedroom home with separate outside guest suite. While it doesn’t look out over the waves, it is affordably priced at R855 000. Also competitively priced at R995 000 is a three bedroom house in the centre of the town yet close to the beach.

According to Van Wyk, excellent value for money and a fair amount of choice of homes with sea views is currently to be had in the R1 million to R2 million price range. With rental demand for both permanent and holiday accommodation rising steadily in the area, these are also potentially good investment properties, she adds.

For those with more spending power and want to get into the lucrative guest house sector, one of the area’s most successful B & B establishments, now celebrating its tenth year in business, is on the market. At R3, 5 million, the six bedroom, six bathroom American sugar plantation-style house is very well priced, she says, particularly since it overlooks the quaint Struisbaai harbour.

Upwards of R4 million will buy “one of the best positioned properties in Struisbaai. “What makes this home so attractive is that there is no road between it and the sea,” she says. In all, it consists of four bedrooms, three bathrooms and well-planned living area.

There’s also a “competitively” priced 120 hectare property with 2km of river frontage and its own private slipway. Comprising main house, guest cottage, labourer’s house, garages and an office building, permission has been granted for the building of a further three houses, which she says leaves the door wide open to numerous possibilities for the future owner.

Says Van Wyk: “Property in the Overberg area is without a doubt some of the most ideally situated in terms of beautiful natural surroundings, safety and healthy climate. The area lies on the southernmost tip of the African continent, surrounded by mountains, oceans, and endless stretches of fragrant fynbos, which makes it totally unique. This will ensure excellent long-term growth for its real estate as well as an idyllic lifestyle.”

FANTASTIESE KOPIES IN MIDDELMARK VIR PLEKKIE BY DIE SEE [1/29/2009]


David van Rooyen

Daar was die afgelope vakansie steeds sterk belangstelling in duur vakansie-eiendom in gesogte speelplekke, maar vir kopers in die middelmark wat ‘n plekkie by die see verlang, is daar nou fantastiese winskopies beskikbaar.  Dit blyk uit kitspeilings wat verskeie eiendomsgroepe onder hul agente in kusdorpe gedoen het.

In gesogte vakansiebestemmings, soos Plettenbergbaai en Knysna aan die Kaapse suidkus, asook Kaapstad se Atlantiese kus, het agente die afgelope vakansie steeds fluks sake gedoen.

Die Re/Max-agentskap in Knysna sê die agentskap was die afgelope vakansie die besigste in die afgelope vyf jaar.  En die agentskap in Plettenbergbaai berig dat daar nie net baie belangstelling van voornemende kopers was nie, maar verkope was ook op dieselfde vlak as in die vorige jaar.

Daarby word verwag dat nog verkope uit die vakansie se navrae sal volg omdat kopers wat die vakansie gebruik om eiendom te soek eers ‘n besluit neem wanneer hulle in Februarie weer by die huis is.

Mnr. Graham Anley sê hy het die indruk gekry dat kopers besluit het om die vakansiemark te betree terwyl pryse laer is omdat hulle verwag dat pryse kan begin styg as rentekoerse verder daal.

Dit is egter in die middelmark waar daar volgens die ERA-groep tans fantastiese winskopies aan die kus beskikbaar is. Dit is deesdae moontlik om vir so min as
R450 000 ‘n eenheid in Blaauwberg aan die kaapse weskus te koop.
Volgens me. Helena Visser van ERA Steer in Blaauwberg kan ‘n mens vir die geld ‘n tweeslaapkamer-eenheid in ‘n veiligheids-kompleks koop.

“So ‘n eenheid is nie baie luuks nie, maar die prys is ‘n goeie aanduiding van hoe pryse afgekom het.”

In gebiede soos Woodstock, Observatorly en University Estates is Gautengers besig om eenhede vir R700 000 te koop. Aan die Kaapse suidkus bied kleiner plekke soos Sedgefield en mosselbaai goeie geleenthede en veral in Wildernis is puik winskopies beskikbaar.

Mnr. Henning Swanepoel van ERA National sê spoggerige woonstelle in Sedgefield met verhuringspotensiaal word vir R490 000 verkoop en ‘n gesinswoning naby die see is vir R790 000 in die mark. In Danabaai naby Mosselbaai word ‘n groot huis vir R1,6 miljoen bemark en by Hartenbos kos drieslaapkamer-woonstelle met twee badkamers net R795 000.

En in die Agulhas-gebied, wat dorpe soos Struisbaai, L’Agulhas, Arniston en Bredasdorp insluit, is daar eiendom vir so min as R325 000 beskikbaar.  Mev. Strepies van Wyk, hoof van die Realty1-groep se Kantoor in Kaap Agulhas, sê eiendom in die gebied verkoop nou vir minder as in 2007. Sy meen dit is nou 10% goedkoper om ‘n eiendom by die see te bekom.  Vir tussen R1 miljoen en R2 miljoen is daar heelwat huise met ‘n uitsig oor die see beskikbaar.

In Port Elizabeth word huise in gewilde voorstede soos Humewood, Summerstrand en Lovemore Heights verkoop vir sowat 30% minder as wat hulle eintlik werd is.  Mnr. Rishaad Mohammed van ERA berea-Noord in Durban sê verkopers in die sentrale Berea- gebied vra nou 30% minder as ‘n jaar gelede.

Die Burger - Buite [2/4/2009]


die burger buite

“Daar het hulle by Elim gekom, waar twaalf waterfonteine en sewentig palmbome was. En hulle het daar by die water laer getrek.”


Toe die oudste dorpie in die Strandveld, halfpad tussen Gansbaai en Bredasdorp, in 1824 deur die Morawiese sendelinge gestig is, het hulle dit heel gepas geag om die naam in Die Bybel te vind.


Vandag is die Elim-wyk die suidelikste wyngebied in Afrika met gevolglik die suidelikste wingerde op die vasteland. Maar hier gaan dit nie net oor wingerd en wyn nie. Nee, dit gaan ook oor graan en fynbos; vee, wildsbokke en voëls; vleilande en natuurreservate; wonderlike mense en heerlike kos.


Septembermaand het ek koers gekies soontoe – oor Caledon en Bredasdorp, net anderkant Bredasdorp regs gedraai na Die Dam/Elim/Gansbaai (R317) en ’n ent verder weer regs by die T-aansluiting na Elim/Baardskeerdersbos.
Op die bord waarop staan Wolvengat/Die Dam/Buffelsjags het ek links op die grondpad gedraai tot by die Strandveld Vineyards waar allemintige walvisbeendere my ingewag en verwelkom het.


Dit sou my basisstasie vir die volgende twee dae wees – in een van die twee pragtig gerestoureerde, selfonderhoudende arbeidershuisies op die plaas.


As mens nou met daai teerpad na Elim/Baardskeerdersbos gaan, kry jy links die tuiste van Black Oystercatcher-wyne (Moddervlei van Dirk (Vaatjie) Human), gevolg deur die tuiste van The Berrio-wyne (ook Moddervlei, maar van Francis (Frankie) Pratt) en regs Zoetendal-wyne van Johan (Idols) de Kock.


Zoetendal het ook ’n warme gastehuis met ’n pragtige uitsig.
Die Strandveld Vineyards en Zoetendal het albei proekamers, terwyl Black Oystercatcher en The Berrio s’n teen einde November/begin Desember reg vir die publiek behoort te wees.
Onder die natuurreservate hier wat die mond van enige eko-toeris sal laat water, is die bekende De Hoop-natuurreservaat, Andrew’s Field (’n privaat reservaat), die Agulhas Nasionale Park en Geelkop-natuurreservaat.


En dan is daar natuurlik Elim.
Die Saterdag het ek eers die gasvryheid, wyne en kos van die kontrei geniet en toe met ’n groep Britse wynskrywers en internasionale wynaankopers ’n bietjie die omgewing en al sy wonderlike natuurskatte gaan verken.


Elke dan en wan het ek op ’n fietsryer of drie afgekom en na ’n ruk besef dat die driehoek, gevorm deur Bredasdorp, Agulhas en Elim, perfekte teer- en grondpaaie het om jou van jou oortollige energie vry te maak.


Die volgende oggend is vier van ons per bergfiets tot by Vaatjie se strandhuis by die see waar die ander manne ons ingewag het. En daar het die manne gewys dat hulle net so handig in die kombuis en voor kosmaakvure is soos in die kelder. Namibiese oesters en sauvignon blanc is gevolg deur perlemoen en ’n verskeidenheid wittes. Toe volg vars galjoen en nog wittes.
En asof daar g’n einde aan dekadensie kom nie, word ontbeende springbokboud met shiraz voorgesit, gevolg deur halfgaar beesfillet en nog shiraz.


Daar was ook nagereg gewees, maar teen daardie tyd was ek teen die toue en ek het geweet dat daar geen manier was dat ek daardie middag nog sou terugry huis toe nie.


Nee wat, môre is nog ’n dag, het ek gereken, en ’n mens is mos maar net een keer jonk.

REALTY 1 DEEL VAN ASHTON GHOLF DAG [2/4/2009]




Jan-Burger van Wyk, Chris Smit; Nevill Vorster; Luwald Giliomee 

Op 20 September 2008 het Realty 1 Cape Agulhas die 3de putjie by die Ashton Laerskool geborg. Alhoewel die span nie ‘n eerste plek gekry het nie, het Jan-Burger en Chris 7de geeindig uit 36 spanne. Die Realty 1 Cape Agulhas gholfspan het die dag terdeë geniet.

FINANCIAL SERVICES GIANT PARTNERS WITH REAL ESTATE COMPANY [3/25/2009]


Financial services giant Sanlam and real estate investment holding company Jigsaw have joined forces to help consumers gain entry into an increasingly tough property market.

The newly formed business unit, Sanlam Home Solutions, will serve as a mortgage originator for amongst others Sanlam clients as well as clients of Jigsaw real estate networks.

Jigsaw CEO Neville McIntyre says Sanlam Home Solutions will offer comprehensive bond origination services to buyers, sellers or those wanting to rent that will ultimately pave the way to home ownership.

“As an approachable,responsible and resourceful company, Sanlam Home Solutions will significantly increase the consumer's confidence of entering the property market,” he says.

Anton Gildenhuys, CE: Sanlam Personal Finance Strategic Business Development, says against the backdrop of tighter lending criteria, the global credit crisis and non bank lenders exiting the home loan market, Sanlam saw an opportunity for a financial institution with a long-term view to form a partnership to assist consumers realising their dreams of home ownership.

“Clients will not only be serviced by a knowledgeable,professional Sanlam Home Solutions consultant, but Sanlam
Home Solutions will also provide the client access to a professional financial planner who can conduct a comprehensive financial needs analysis and address the clients financial needs around home ownership at the time and into the future. This gives Sanlam the opportunity to assist clients making one of their most critical financial decisions” says Anton.

Sanlam Home Solutions bond origination services include:
- Providing pre-assessments for home loans for potential home buyers;
- Sourcing the best bonds from banks and financial institutions; and
- Offering long-term support for home buyers.
If you would like to read more about this article ...Click here

Struisbaai-Elim Voëlkykroete (R317) [6/15/2009]


Ry enige dag hierdie roete en maak ‘n opname van wat u sien sodat ons mettertyd die verspreiding van voëls volgens seisoen en tyd van dag kan vasstel.

Datavorms is by die Parkkantore op L’Agulhas beskikbaar. As u die roete vanaf Struisbaai begin en u wil eers die dag met ‘n kultuurinspuiting begin, ry aan by die Hotagterklip Padstal. Hulle is oop vanaf 9:00 tot 17:00 sewe dae ‘n week.

Terwyl u voëls kyk en dalk weer dors raak, kan u by Springfield aangaan en by die Van Asse koffie of tee gaan soek. Bel vooraf: 028-4356603.
Of u kan by Strandveld Wines (5km vanaf die Roete op Die Dampad), Black Oystercatcher, The Berrio en Zoetendal Wynkelder gaan wynproe en koop.

As u teen die einde van die dag baie honger is, klop aan op Elim by Die Meul Teekamer (Wilma, 0730152798 en Jane, 0713916024) en die Royal Teekamer (028-4821735) of as u die roete vanaf Elim begin ry, gaan ontbyt eers in Elim en begin dan voëls kyk, proe wyn, kyk voëls, … en eindig die dag by die Hotagterklip Padstal. Hotagterklip Padstal sal nie gedurende die wintermaande op Sondae oop wees nie.

Strandveld Wines Tye: Maan-Don 08:00 – 17:00, Vry 08:00 – 16:00, Sat 10:00 – 15:00
Black Oystercatcher Tye: Maan-Vry 9:00 – 17:00
The Berrio Tye: Maan-Vry 9:00-17:00
Zoetendal Winery Tye: Maan-Vry 9:00 – 17:00

REALTY 1 CAPE AGULHAS TRAINING [7/15/2009]


training Being a competitive team in a highly competitive market, we strive to be informed about new information and changes in the property industry - which is why we jumped at the chance for Berna Daly from Realty 1 IPG head office to conduct a three-day in-house training course for us recently.

Agents and administration staff alike thoroughly enjoyed the modules and then the fun braai that heralded the end of training and gave all an opportunity to socialise.

REALTY 1 CAPE AGULHAS ROLBAL [7/15/2009]

Op 20 Mei 2009 het Realty 1 Cape Agulhas deelgeneemaan die jaarlikse besigheidsliga rolbal.

Dit was, soos altyd, heerlik om almal se talente te aanskouen om na die tyd heerlik saam met mede besigheidsmense te kon kuier.

Baie dankie aan ons mentor Francien Cumpsty asook aan die organiseerders van die rolbalklub.

Sien julle volgende jaar weer!

VOET VAN AFRIKA 2009 [10/15/2009]

“Not too hot, not too cold, it was the perfect day for running”. That's how participants and onlookers described the conditions surrounding the Foot of Africa Marathon, an annual running calendar highlight which took place this year on Saturday 3rd October.

From Bredasdorp to Napier, the surrounds and back, the challenging race is ranked as one of South Africa's best – and toughest - marathons and accordingly attracts athletes from all around the country. And routing for everyone, from the freshest to the most faded, was the team from Realty 1 Cape Agulhas which tended the first watering station on the route.

REALTY 1 – ANNUAL NATIONAL AWARDS [10/15/2009]

From left to right: Pieter Ferreira
CEO Jigsaw Holdings, Jan-Burger
van Wyk, Hano Jacobs COO
Realty 1 IPG International
Despite the challenges experienced by South Africa’s real estate industry in the last year, the global recession did not stop the Realty 1 IPG Cape Agulhas team from pocketing a number of prestigious awards at the group’s annual National Awards Ceremony.

The glamorous event, which took place in Johannesburg on 28 July2009, recognised the performances of the entire group’s star performers. Among the awards taken home by our own dynamic team was that of Top Franchise Office (Country) , in recognition of commission earnings. We’re proud to say that we’ve now won this award for four consecutive years!

We were also greatly honoured to receive three additional awards, handed to Jan-Burger van Wyk on behalf of our principal Strepies van Wyk. These included second place in the category Top Franchise Office (Country) for units sold and fourth place in the Top 10 Offices National category for commission.

Last but not least, we were also awarded sixth place in the Top 10 Offices National category (also based on unit sales).

To our valued clients: please accept a heartfelt thank you from us for your support, without which our success would not have been possible.

VIR DIE KINDERS... [3/12/2010]


Op 4 Desember 2009 het Wessel van Zyl weer 'n suksesvolle “toy run” vir die behoeftige kinders van die omgewing georganiseer. Verskeie instansies en besighede in Pretoria het geskenke gestuur en M-Net het 1100 sokkerballe geskenk.

Die lugmag het 'n lugvertoning vir die kinders aangebied en ook die geleentheid gegee om die vliegtuie van nader te besigtig. Boeresport is gehou en selfs van die groot mense het hierby aanklank gevind. Coke het hulle“ verhoog” vragmotor geleen, en koeldrank vir die dag geskenk tot groot vermaak van die kinders.

Verskeie plaaslike instansies het die dag moontlik gemaak en ons bedank hulle daarvoor. ACVV, Kinder- en gesinsorg, Project Hope, SAP Struisbaai, Bredasdorp en Napier Lugmag, SDR-Nooddienste, Suidpunt Sekuriteit, Die Lions klub, Spar, Coca Cola – Worcester, Ceres Vrugtesappe en Realty 1 IPG. Baie dankie aan Stefan Hanekom vir die toegewyde insameling van die geskenke.

Wessel, Anita van Zyl en Susan Arries besig om kinders dop te hou  

Indien u belangstel om betrokke te raak, of skenkings te maak kontak gerus vir
Wessel by 084 549 2917


Why real estate continues to outperform other investments [7/23/2010 7:38:14 AM]


By Strepies Van Wyk, principal of Realty 1 IPG Cape Agulhas

While there's no arguing that South Africa's real estate market is still struggling to regain its momentum on the back of the 2008/2009 global economic crash, it has nevertheless managed to outperform traditional investment vehicles such as stocks and shares.

According to Old Mutual, SA real estate delivered returns of 18.5% over five years and 21.2% over ten years in the period December 1998 to December 2009, outperforming the capital market by 2% over five years and by nearly 7% over 10 years.

Says top real estate performer Strepies van Wyk, “Real estate gives the investor high returns with reasonable risk. This is opposed to stocks, which promise high returns and high risk; bonds which, though less risky, are vulnerable to inflation and tend to deliver unimpressive returns; commodities which, though tangible and good hedges against inflation, are very risky and volatile; and cash in the bank, which might be safe but delivers poor returns.

”She adds: “One of the reasons for real estate's ongoing upward performance is its tangibility. While you can't touch or look at stocks and shares, property is not only physical but its value can be enhanced. Bear in mind, too, that real estate investors enjoy ownership and control of their assets – despite the fact that many tend to finance their purchases with OPM (other people's money)”.

It's also reliable. “People are increasingly realising that property values tend to double every seven to eight years, whereas other investments come and go.

Testimony to the potential of real estate for wealth creation are Donald Trump, Donald Bren (the world's richest property tycoon according to Forbes.com), Stanley Ho (one of Asia's wealthiest people) and Akira Mori, one of the richest men in the world.

While property values can remain static or even decline as a result of an economic trough, she points out that overall through the ages, negative inflation is relatively short-lived.

Furthermore, on the rare occasions that values level out or even turn down, at least there won't be a complete or irreversible loss of value.

“Something else to consider is that when capital growth slows, owners of income-generating properties can look forward to increased rental demand and returns while benefiting from tax advantages and better-than-gold inflation hedging,” she says.

“Further, with real estate, your capital investment can withstand adversity better than most, if not all, others.”

A word of caution though. “If you don't take cognizance of three critical components required to make a good, long-term real estate investment, namely location, sensible leverage and return on investment (ROI), your investment could end up disappointing.”

PROVINCIAL MEGA ALERT


Wednesday, 09 November 2011 @ 15h30

On Monday afternoon, 07 November 2011, at about 17h00, Wessel van Zyl astonishingly located a GROUNDSCRAPER THRUSH in an open field area adjacent to Recreation Street just to the south of the town of Bredasdorp (co-ordinates of the site are at 34 deg 32’ 34”S and 20 deg 02’ 43”E). He fortunately managed to photograph it and, via a series of email communications, it eventually reached my inbox 4th hand this afternoon.

This is an incredible record for the province and certainly constitutes the first record ever for the Western Cape with the closest known records being at least 600km to the north of this. Unfortunately, there has not been any subsequent news of the bird, but this is surely going to spark a lot of interest from provincial listers and, with a number of people looking in the area, it will hopefully be relocated again.

Groundscraper Thrush in Bredasdorp
© Wessel van Zyl

Good luck if you are planning on chasing it and keep us updated! Should I hear any further news on this bird, I will certainly post an update here immediately.
Kind regards
Trevor


TREVOR HARDAKER
Cape Town, South Africa

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