Estate Living Digital Publication Issue 5 May 2015 | Page 67

Residential Estates creating and sustaining great places to live, to work and to play and a sound security structure allows for exactly this. Sustainability of property value It has been proven that manicured common areas, beautiful parks, dams and clean roads and curbs have a direct impact on the value of property as do strict architectural guidelines and aesthetic standards also. Put simply, Yet despite all the fancy trimmings and living in the suburbs comes with exactly the incessantbudgets,manyofthesecommunities same rules as an exclusive residential estate, still face a number of concerns. The stringent but instead of coming directly from the HOA, rules and regulations, particularly in regards they come from the municipality. The only to building enhancements, can for example difference here is that a HOA works and runs like a business in that it has to comply with create disputes and security breaches. the Companies Act and the owners elect A breach of security within a secure directors to lead the business and managers residential community usually attracts the to manage the community. unwarranted glare of the media far more than when a security breach occurs outside The Association of Residential Communities of the community, which incidentally are (ARC) is a residential estate governing body generally up to fifty times more prevalent that offers best practice and guidelines and than within an organised residential ensure that sustainable business practices community. Similarly, it is also staggering continue to be enforced in this growing to see such a huge media frenzy generated sector. If your community is not yet a member over a rule relating to the number of dogs please contact [email protected] home owners are permitted to keep in one The third Annual ARC/CAISA Conference particular residential community. takes place on 23 & 24 June 2015 at Simbithi There is an opinion in the media that these Eco Estate & Country Club outside Durban. communities are unsustainable and not a The conference will once again attract wellviable option for the future. Yet this is so far known speakers, international guests and removed from reality – they in fact offer one experts in the residential community industry. of the best sustainable choices one can make The annual ARC journal which outlines the best practises and policies for the residential for a number of reasons. estate industry, and is a go-to reference guide for procurement offices, estate managers Financial sustainability All homeowners pay a monthly levy and developers to the community, will be calculated by the annual budget and most distributed at the conference. communities also have a financial reserve fund to support unexpected repairs or We look forward to welcoming new replacements that need to take place in the and existing estate management at the community. Directors and managers are conference as we continue to grow and held accountable in respect of their fiduciary professionalise our industry. For further responsibility and some also have additional information on the conference, please call responsibility to ensure that money is spent 0861 462 463 or email info@hoasupport. to serve the best interests of the community co.za. at large. To showcase your services to decision markers in the estate market, please contact Sustainability of lifestyle Security is always a top priority especially [email protected] or call as residents living within residential 021 422 4445. communities demand other forms of opportunities and events that can enhance their lifestyle. Community living is about Jeff Gilmourr providing sustainable living The residential community industry offers local homeowners and foreign investors’ exclusive living in some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. With a wealth of amenities, it is unsurprising that the Home Owners Association (HOA) or body corporate of these communities, administer a combined annual budget to the tune of R11 billion plus.