Apartment living room ideas

Apartment living has become the new norm, and we should embrace it! Especially when you have an eye for layout and design. Sometimes we need a little nudge when it comes to what to put where, and how to work with a smaller space, and really make the most of it.

Are you on the hunt for some inspiring apartment living room ideas? Well, we have you covered, no matter what size, or layout, or even what your budget might be. Even if you rent, there’s no stopping you from making the most of your space and be inspired to find a look that suits your unique personality.

Apartment living rooms tend not to be stand-alone spaces and often they have to double up as other rooms too – a dining room, a home office, or at times even a second bedroom. We work our spaces hard, and make them multi-functional!

But before all else, they need to be functional. This doesn't mean they can't look stylish too.

We've rounded up all our favourite on-trend living room ideas to prove just what can be done with an apartment living space so you can be inspired to give yours a refresh.

• If your space is limited, a room divider is a good option to create an extra section, but without crowding the living room even more
• A clever space-saving hack is to use your colour on your walls to segregate areas
• Select rugs to section parts off, as well as use different lighting intensities in each section depending on its purpose. As an example, bright lighting is best suited in the kitchen but the living room can have a more cosy and ambient lighting scheme.
• Choose multi-purpose furniture, such as a sofa bed that'll be a statement piece in your living room and convert to a comfy bed for guests to come to stay.
• Create a little dining area that can double up as a workspace too.
• We suggest you use all the available space you have, including your walls! You can use shelves, but also use your walls to store your dining chairs for easy access and to not clutter your floor space.

Happy apartment living from the RockCliff Living Team!

RockCliff Living – in comfort and security. A home for everyone.

Everyone loves access to all the comforts in their day-to-day living and home. We know this and have made sure that all our homes are kitted and fitted with everything you need, from our modern apartments, and free-standing to our simplex and duplex homes. These homes are much more than that, they are spaces where you can create memories that last a lifetime, with friends who truly feel like family.

So, what home is perfect for you?

The Cliffs are our modern 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartments, from R799 000

• Choose between ground floor, first floor and second floor options. The first and second floor options boast a juliet balcony with views over the horizon. Sliding doors allow you to extend your living space from the open-plan living area and outside.

Pebble - 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, from R949 000

• These are our sought-after semi-detached single-storey simplex homes which offer lifestyle conveniences at their very best. Ideal for young couples, new families or those who want to invest wisely.

Claystone - 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, double-storey, from R1 199 000

• Let’s take it up a level! Claystone duplex homes are double-storey 76m2 units with stylish, modern finishes, an open-plan kitchen, a front porch and so much more. They are the perfect base to enjoy everything RockCliff Living community has to offer.

Flagstone - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double-storey, from R1 595 000

• For the growing family. 3 bedrooms makes these duplex homes spacious and stylish. Imagine cooking in the open-plan kitchen, watching your favourite family movies in the lounge and enjoying the outdoors on sunny afternoons.

You have to see it all to believe it. Contact our sales team to discover more about our homes and RockCliff way of living!

As with all RockCliff Living Homes, we offer convenient lifestyle extras (at an additional cost), including a garage, covered garden courtyard, paved open courtyard and extra wall units and extractor fan for your kitchen. No bond and transfer costs.

Discover your ideal home, in the perfectly-positioned RockCliff Living community.

RockCliff Living – in luxury. Our top homes

At RockCliff Living we pride ourselves on the array of homes we offer. Homes that suit each stage of your life, and your pocket. We also understand that some of us love a little luxury, and we have designed homes within RockCliff that tick a lot of boxes, making sure you have everything you need, and more. These are not your average free-standing homes. These are built with you, and your loved ones in mind.

Here are our top RockCliff Living homes:

Black Marble - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms | Free-standing home // From R1 455 000

These beautiful homes are 94m and offer open-plan kitchen and lounge areas, a front porch, enclosed yard, outside patio and two parking spaces. Make it your own by choosing from two interior colour palettes for floor tiles and kitchen cupboards.

Gem - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms // From R1 555 000

RockCliff Living's Gem homes are 97m. Their positioning and erf size is optimal. The modern interior finishes include an open-plan kitchen and lounge areas, a front porch, enclosed yard, outside patio and two parking spaces.

Yellow Diamond - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms // From R1 632 500

RockCliff Living's larger 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom free-standing homes are known as Yellow Diamond homes. And for good reason! The beautiful interior finishes include an exquisite open-plan kitchen and lounge areas, a front porch, enclosed yard, outside patio and two parking spaces. These are homes for those who enjoy all the finer things in life. You really have to see them for yourself – so contact one of our sales agents, who can

Pink Diamond - 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms // From R1 645 000

This is RockCliff Living’s most spacious free-standing home, offering all the fittings and finishings of a luxury home. Architecturally designed - these include a beautiful open-plan kitchen and lounge areas, a front porch, enclosed yard, outside patio and two parking spaces. The exposed wooden trusses in the main living area give an open and spacious interior feel. Truly make it your own by choosing from two interior colour palettes for floor tiles and kitchen cupboards.

As with all RockCliff Living Homes, we offer convenient lifestyle extras (at an additional cost), including a garage, covered garden courtyard, paved open courtyard and extra wall units and extractor fan for your kitchen. No bond and transfer costs.

Discover your perfect home, in the ideally-positioned RockCliff Living community.

Secure living: The benefits

Estate living has increased in popularity in recent years, seeing more South Africans choosing to move their families into homes within secure, gated communities. We look at some of the reasons for this recent trend, as well as the benefits that homeowners enjoy when living in a secure environment, such as RockCliff Living.

A Safe and Secure Family Lifestyle

The most obvious reason for homeowners to choose homes in secure living scenarios is that they offer superior security. Most secure communities enforce access control and have security personnel who work day and night to guarantee the safety and security of its residents. But, besides the obvious additional security, what do they offer that makes them a great option for families?

Kids at play

We often hear stories about the days “when we were kids”. Nowadays we cringe at the thought of our kids disappearing until the streetlights come on. Not to mention playing cricket in the road or going to the local park to kick a ball without adult supervision.

At RockCliff Living kids can enjoy the same carefree lifestyle that you once had, among likeminded residents. Our amenities geared towards free-play and families can allow their children to be children. There is a collective mindfulness with the residents, making everyone cautious about the safety of the children.

Community

RockCliff Living inspires residents to be more involved in their own local community. With the variety of amenities and its well-designed layout, residents are offered a chance to get to know their neighbours again. They start as friends, and soon become family.

Getting to know your neighbours becomes effortless and spending some fun down time with new friends is easily done without having to go very far.

It is a fantastic community-friendly lifestyle that brings more benefits than you might imagine.

Secure investment

Homes inside a secure gated community have a higher value because of all the reasons mentioned above. These homes will offer a higher rental income bracket and remain highly sought after, by both renters and buyers into the future.

Even though the average home situated in a secure community costs slightly more than freestanding homes in a suburb setting, owning a house inside somewhere like RockCliff Living guarantees a sound investment. These homes tend to have a higher resale value than freestanding homes. With all of the abovementioned benefits, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to live in an environment where they can work less and play more when they are at home.

Affordable ways to keep yourself warm this winter

It’s getting cold outside baby! Looking for ways to stay warm and cosy at home? Winter is a time when we discover cracks for the cold air to find its way inside. Not only does that make it harder to keep your house warm, but it also sends money out the door, as the electric or gas bill climbs. Luckily, RockCliff Living homes are built with such careful attention to detail – you won’t find any cracks, but you might still want to take advantage of these easy and inexpensive ways to stay warm in the winter:

Use your curtains

Heat from the sun is free so make the most of it! During the day, when the sun is shining, open up your curtains and let the sunlight in. When the sun sets, close them, which acts as another layer of insulation and also keeps warmth in.

Move your sofa

It might feel great to have your favourite seat in front of the heater, or fireplace, but it’s absorbing heat that could be warming your home! By moving your furniture away from the radiator, hot air can circulate freely. The same applies to drying clothes – keep them away from the radiator so that you can get the most out of your heat source.

Wrap up warm!

There’s nothing quite like having a cupboard or basket full of winter blankies. Grab one for your lap when you’re relaxing with the family. Also, we don’t suggest wearing your Ugg boots indoors, but you can invest in a great pair of slippers and a gown.

Block out the draughts

Even a simple solution such as a long draught blocker will help keep the warmth in your home. DIY draught-proofing your doors, windows and cracks in the floor could save you a tidy sum. You can do this yourself for very little cost. Self-adhesive rubber seals around doors and windows and door draught excluders are relatively cheap and easy to install. So, it’s worth getting those doors and windows sealed before winter properly kicks in!

Eat warming foods

Swap your cold drink for a hot cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and put on a pot of soup for lunch. Cook a hot, healthy meal for dinner and leave the oven door open to allow the heat to escape into the room as you enjoy your meal. There is a reason we want to eat more in the winter; our body craves fuel to heat itself. Listen to your body and eat to stay warm. Oatmeal, starchy vegetables and protein will help.

Interior Design Trends to Watch

Sustainability

This remains at the forefront of interior trends, especially in furniture design. The aim to minimise one’s carbon footprint has been driving buyer decisions for some time now and shows no sign of stopping.

Multifunctional Spaces

With more time spent at home, we’re looking to get the most out of existing spaces. This means certain zones in the home take on multifunctional roles. It only makes sense then that the furniture incorporated should be versatile enough to fulfil a multitude of roles.

Landscape-inspired Tones

One of this year’s biggest trends draws inspiration from the colour combinations, shapes and textures of our natural environment. Think organic shapes, natural wood, earthy textures and shades of moss, clay and sand. This inclination towards landscape inspired tones reflects our desire to connect with nature in whatever way we can, especially at home.

Colour Collaborations

The first thing to consider when establishing a colour scheme in a room is what sort of feeling or environment you’re trying to create. For example, a cosy living room space would call for shades of beige, red, and perhaps burnt orange. A beach cottage bedroom, on the other hand, would suit cooler colours such as hues of blue, cream and white. Colour savvy individuals often employ the 60-30-10 rule when decorating. It’s an easy technique to grasp and simply means that you decorate 60% of the room in the dominant colour, 30% in a secondary colour, and 10% in an accent colour. Still unsure? Select colours that are on opposite sides of the colour wheel – they are, after all, called ‘complimentary colours’ for a reason. If it’s all starting to look a little too matchy-matchy, add variation by including patterns and of course, texture.

Our Youth. Our Future.

The June 16 uprising, which began in Soweto in 1976 and spread countrywide, changed the socio-political landscape in South Africa profoundly. It is now a day when we stand together and take stock of how far we have come, and be mindful of the struggles the youth of our country still face, daily.

One of the greatest fears an average young South African has is to deal with the same obstacles as previous generations. Some examples of these struggles are a lack of water, an ineffective education system, increasing unemployment and poverty becoming ‘the norm’. These issues seem to have found their way into the nature of South Africa and a lot of our youth are so busy just trying to survive when they could be focussing their energy and efforts on making a positive impact. They could be the very key that provides generations after them to thrive and develop in a country full of opportunity!

South Africa is a beautiful nation, with a vast population consisting of diverse and capable people with the youth making up a large part of this. Through the proper and efficient utilisation of resources, there is an opportunity to enhance the capabilities of young people and transform the economy and uplift society.

According to the World Economic Forum, Africa will be home to a billion youth by 2050. South Africa alone has a youth population of 20.6 million, making up 35.7 percent of the country's total population of about 57.7 people. 

RockCliff Living acknowledges the struggles of our youth and promotes their upliftment and education. RockCliff Community is a place where young people can grow up in a safe environment, surrounded by friends and neighbours who feel like family. The opportunity for high-quality education and access to opportunities in the surrounding area of Cove Rock are abundant.

Happy Youth Day from the RockCliff Living Team!

Outdoor play: Crucial for young bodies and minds

Benefits of Outdoor Play for Kids

Today’s kids average seven hours daily in front of electronics, such as television, tablets, laptops and phones. There’s no denying what the statistics show — kids are swapping active, outdoor play for screen time. This choice is causing severe consequences for their health and well-being. Most parents are already aware screen time is increasing, and the desire to play outside is diminishing. Also, parents would agree they want their kids to be physically healthy, well-rounded, independent and compassionate individuals. What if we told you the best way to instill these qualities, was to inspire them to spend more time outside?

Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors and away from technology aids their physical well-being, and helps them improve their emotional and intellectual health – it’s a fact. It could be a trip to the park, a walk along the beach or a stroll around your neighbourhood, stopping to say hi to friends and inspect new flowers, there’s no denying the benefits of playing outdoor games and stepping away from the screen and into the sunshine.

Physical Development Benefits

Playing outside directly impacts a child’s weight, physical strength and immune system. Kids who spend a lot of active time outdoors in their early years generally continue to exercise more regularly as they age. This means, that encouraging outdoor play in young children helps develop a healthy attitude towards maintaining an energetic adult lifestyle.

Social Development Benefits

While there are many physical benefits to playing outside, it also provides the perfect opportunity for social development. Children will get to interact with their peers which is key to early social skills.

Emotional Development Benefits

Along with the social and physical benefits of outdoor play, children who play outside tend to be stronger emotionally and process things more easily than children who don’t get ample opportunities to play outside.

Intellectual Development Benefits

Many parents think the best way to develop their child’s intellectual abilities is to spend more time learning in an organised classroom environment. But, did you know encouraging your child to spend time outside is also a great way to develop their intellectual abilities? RockCliff Living has dedicated outdoor play areas for kids of all ages. There are also tracks and paths around the estate, perfect for walking, biking and spending time outdoors. This adds to the overall community-centric lifestyle of RockCliff Living, making it the perfect place for families at any stage or phase of your journey.

First time Home Buyer Checklist: What you need to know

You’re about to enter the housing market for the first time, but where do you start? The whole process of buying a home can be a daunting one but being methodical and planning for each step of the way will help make your experience a stress-free one. A friendly reminder that you can contact the experienced, friendly and professional team at RockCliff Living, at any stage of your journey and we’d be happy to assist. There are plenty of things to consider when buying a home, but here is a short checklist to get you started.

Set Your Budget

It seems like an obvious thing to say but doing the legwork initially to find out your budget will save you a headache in the long run. Understanding your affordability, and ideally getting pre-approved for a home loan will give you confidence going into the market, and it will make your offer far more attractive to sellers too.

Do your Research

No doubt you have a pretty good idea of what you are looking for and where you would like to move to but putting in your due diligence will make your decision-making process far easier. Research areas that you are keen on, look at current and previous listings, consider schools in the area, and other things that you may need in the future too. Use Your Head - Not Your Heart

Buying your first home can be an exciting time, and if you aren’t careful, you could get caught up in the emotion of it all. Try to be as practical as possible when choosing which home to put an offer on. Get a home inspection and an appraisal done, this should shine a light on any potential discrepancies in the list price and will flag any repairs and mai9ntenance that may need to take place.

Make an Offer!

The last thing to think about when you’ve found the perfect home is how much to offer. Your initial offer should take into consideration the current housing market, how long the house has been listed, any repairs or maintenance that is needed, and if there are any other offers on the property.

The truth is that your first offer probably won’t be accepted, and the seller could make a counteroffer to drive the price up between potential buyers. You should work with, and trust, your agent's expertise in this area. They will be able to guide you on when to increase your bid and by how much.

There are so many things to consider when entering the housing market but being practical about what your needs are and what you can afford will help you make informed decisions. It has the potential to be a stressful time, but it is also a very exciting time, planning and understanding will make sure that the excitement outweighs the stress and make buying your first home the joyous time that it should be.

Why get pre-approved?

So you are looking to buy a new home, you already know how stressful the process of moving can be, and no doubt you are looking to make it as smooth as possible.
Getting pre-approved for a home loan is one way that you can make the whole experience as easy as possible, and here are 4 reasons why…

It lets you know what you’re working with

There are so many considerations to be made when it comes to buying a home - how big should you go, which areas would you like to live in, what are your “must-haves” and what are your “deal-breakers”, and obviously, you need to manage your budget.

Getting pre-approved for a home loan means that when you start looking, you will have a very clear idea of what you can afford and so you can make sure that you look at properties that are within your budget.

It makes you a more attractive buyer

When you get pre-approved for a home loan, you are able to make a solid offer to the seller and you can be confident that you can afford it. Selling a house is just as stressful as buying one, and so when sellers receive pre-approved offers it is far more attractive for them to accept. It means that they know the offer is valid and the sale will go through. This offers them a piece of mind and increases the chance of them accepting.

It gives you more room to negotiate

Following on from the point above, because you are preapproved you are afforded some flexibility in what you can offer. Again, sellers will be comforted by the fact that the offer is pre-approved and so the sale will be a sure thing.

You’ll close faster

There are usually delays between when an offer is submitted, and the sale goes through. There are a lot of factors that play a role here, but mortgage approval is one of the main reasons. Pre-approved offers will be able to skip the initial steps and go straight to the appraisals and inspections. This will speed the whole process up and get you into your new home as soon as possible.

Getting pre-approved for your home loan can help you filter through the noise and find the home that is right for you. It is a simple enough process that can make all the difference to your buying experience, so don’t hesitate to talk to your teams to get approved sooner rather than later.

The Eastern Cape: A Province of Possibilities

As we emerge from the crippling effects Covid-19 has had on the South African economy, we are seeing exciting opportunities emerge, and The Eastern Cape is grabbing them with both hands. With the third-largest economy, out of South Africa’s nine provinces, it’s growing, and going places.

The Eastern Cape is vast and beautiful. Despite the lush sweeping scenery, the province has experienced economic hardships, with sparse infrastructure and very few industries that are booming. Sometimes, it seems as though time has stood still in parts of the province. Until now. It is becoming a place where many young professionals and growing families are looking to make their homes. A place to belong, feel safe and provide for loved ones. RockCliff Living is perfectly positioned for those seeking these things, in a vibrant community, with endless opportunities.

Multitude industries are taking flight and there has been a recent surge in investment and employment opportunities. Newfound energy is being injected into the area. Mercedes Benz has long been a reliable and constant source of job opportunities for those living in and around East London. But it doesn’t end here. Investment from government and private sector companies into Buffalo city and surrounds have bolstered other key trades, such as tourism, agri-business, logistics and the film & media industry.

And, action!

A prime example of this, is the newly acquired Fish River Resort by FORUS, alongside the local amaGqunukwebe-Prudhoe Community Trust. This relationship has formed in response to the wide variety of untapped filming locations and the demand from local and international production companies. It’s also about the upliftment of the community and acts as a prime example of how community, nature and technology come together to create an array of job opportunities and investment, into a province that yearns for it.

The Fish River Studios project will create plenty of prospects, with a significant focus on employment creation. The regional effect will include the development of new industries to support the productions set to take place in this breathtaking location. Several national and international production scouts have confirmed the viability of the site from an infrastructure perspective, as well as the proximity to Gqeberha and East London airports.

RockCliff Living residents can embrace all the employment benefits of projects like this, and others emerging in the area.

It truly is a place to live, work, and play.

A Guide to Relocating

Relocating can be tiring, and there are also so many things to keep in mind while moving. We want to give you a few tips and pointers to ensure your move isn’t stressful for you, and the family. But before you do anything else, we advise you to hire packers and movers as soon as possible.

Things to Consider When Relocating Your Family

• Make sure your apartment has everything you need!
  By everything we mean everything from 24-hour electricity, adequate water supply, parking space, parks for your children and sound security.
• Make sure your neighbourhood is safe. When shortlisting neighbourhoods, you need to make sure that it is well connected, particularly to your workplace, hospitals, shopping malls etc.
• Make sure to locate a good school too!

Tips to pack and move smoothly

This is the hardest part of the process and you’re probably wondering where to start. Here’s what you need to do.

1. Hire Packers and Movers
   find trusted packers and movers that offer top quality services, do a professional job, have affordable rates, and positive customer reviews.


2. Make Lists
   Even if you’ve never been the most organised person in the world, this is a good time to try. These lists can be shared with your moving company, to give an estimate of how much the service will costs and how many vehicles will be needed for transportation. Pro Tip: Tape your lists to the right boxes! This way, you can open the boxes you require first instead of wasting time opening up random boxes.


3. Lighten the Load
   Inventory checks are also a good opportunity to de-clutter. Give away old clothes, furniture and other non-essential items. Rule of thumb, if you haven’t used something in a year, you probably never will, so best give it away. Not only will this reduce the number of boxes you need to shift but also cut down your shifting costs.


4. Separate Important Documents
   While doing your inventory check, find and place essential documents and papers in a separate folder.


5. Pack a Box of Essential Items
   Pack a bag with a few things you would need as soon as reach your new home, like toiletries (tooth brush, tooth paste, hand sanitiser, and liquid soap), first aid box, and phone/laptop chargers and any other important gadgets.

Happy moving!

Cove Rock: The untapped gem of East London

Most of us know a bit about the best things to do in and around East London (link to Buzz Post relating to this). But what about the Cove Rock area – which is where RockCliff Living is nestled, in the very heart of this pristine coastal area.

It can’t be stressed enough that RockCliff is positioned in an area close enough to the hustle and bustle of East London’s main central business district, but far enough away from it all, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this beautiful, lush area.

We highlight some of our favourite things that are on your doorstep at RockCliff Living:

Cove Rock Beach

The whole coastline of the Eastern Cape is dotted by pristine beaches that are quiet, vast and exceptionally safe for families. Many of these world-class beaches are fed by nearby rivers, which add to the natural beauty. East London is home to a number of these stunning beaches, and Cove Rock is one of them.

Keen surfers love testing their skills on the consistent waves, and there is some incredible underwater fauna and flora that makes diving here a highlight. The water is relatively warm, thanks to the Indian Ocean. So, those that want to have a dip can do so.

Igoda Beach

Just outside East London, where the Eastern Cape landscapes are characterised by green hills and just about more rivers than trees, is the serenity of the Igoda Beach. This beach boasts wide open spaces, white sand, and the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean.

Igoda Beach is popular for swimming (thanks to the safe conditions of the water) and fishing, as well as for consistently good surf. The soft sand is great for a game of bat-and-ball, sandcastle building, long walks, or just relaxing and soaking up the sun. The beach and the banks of the river are also ideal for picnics. Because the river’s waters are shallower and calmer, it is particularly well-liked by families with small children, or those wanting to float and relax, without tackling waves.

The Old East London Wool Exchange

For a dose of culture and an interesting day out visit this East London historical museum. During the 1890’s, East London established itself as the epicentre of the wool trade in South Africa, with an entire trade and industry existing within the bounds of this beautiful province.

The industry grew rapidly as trade took place, as well as buying and selling, wool auctions and wool brokerage. Due to the expansion of this burgeoning industry, co-operatives were formed, for buyers and brokers in 1928, and premises were constructed for a wool exchange.

3 Silos MTB Adventure Trails

Mountain biking is booming. One of the hot spots for this trending outdoor sport is the vast terrain of the greater East London area. The landscape is breath-taking and the variety of tracks is great for beginners to pros. Smythelands Road in the Cove Rock area is a great, year-round trail for avid mountain bikers. Expect lots of climbs with varying route lengths, between 8 – 18km’s.

These privately managed adventure trails are fast becoming the most popular trails for mountain bikers and trail runners in and around East London

Property post Covid-19: Things to consider

No sector has escaped the aftermath of Covid-19. But we are emerging and no longer feel like we are a nation in a state of disaster. This is a huge relief. The property sector, like most sectors felt an impact in many ways.

How? The price of properties fluctuated, as there was a decreased demand to buy.

But there was also a positive effect – a demand for middle to affordable housing was born – and it is still on the up! Winning!

Another key factor to consider is the consumers’ sentiments when it comes to how they regard the use of property. Their values have shifted. Safety has become key and having a space to work from home is crucial for many.

In summary, the trend is that we are seeing an increase in property investments and first-time home buyers (link to the first-time homeowners Buzz Post. Those who were unsure in the past are now more confident to make the leap into being property owners. Helping make decisions is the fact that South Africa is experiencing its lowest ever interest rate. This low-interest-rate environment, as it is referred to, is crucial for the stimulation of consumers spending and economic recovery.

More than just a home

For so many South Africans, homes have become more than just a place of shelter; they are where we run businesses from, entertain friends who feel like family, places to educate our children, and even workout environments! This fresh perspective and appreciation for the importance of a primary residence is a silver lining of this pandemic.

Here are four things aspiring new home owners in South African right now should look out for:

• Make sure the aim of your purchase is clear and based on a mid to long-term investment commitment. We say this mainly due to the high costs involved in a property transaction.
• Complete a pre-approval (we’ve said this before and we’ll say it again!), to ensure you know the state of your credit health and what you can really afford. This also helps narrow down the type of property that falls within your budget.
• Understand all the costs involved with buying and maintaining the property. These could include monthly rates and taxes; levies; electricity & water bills, building insurance, and general maintenance.
• When purchasing a property make sure it is in an area that has good amenities and is well maintained. The value of your home depends on the overall ecosystem - schools; hospitals; good road networks; shopping centres and social facilities - ultimately, this is what gives the property its fundamental value.

With RockCliff Living the surrounding ecosystem is rich in value, making your property mimic this.

Tips for first-time property investment

Securing finance for your home

There are so many tips out there, from various sources, so to help cut through the noise, we’ve consolidated what we believe to be the best and most helpful hints! Homeowners take heed!

It’s no secret that owning a property opens up a new world of opportunities and possibilities.

Banks watch the property market and act according to the rise and fall of the property market by adjusting their home loan packages in response to the need of first-time property investors.

So, what does this mean for you?

Without stating the obvious, those buying a home for the first time are going to be less familiar with the whole process - which is where a little help from the experts can go a long way.

1. Always know what you can afford - figure this out first, before embarking on a house hunt!
2. Get pre-qualified - using a comparison service such as Ooba Home Loans will help you do this. For free!
3. Calculate your credit score - based on your financial history. The higher your score, the better your chance of securing a loan.
4. Compare quotes from multiple banks - make sure you get the right rates and terms. Ooba offers this too, in fact, they are our recommended go-to one-stop shop for all things home loan related!
5. Make an offer! An offer to purchase outlines all the conditions that need to be met before the sale can take place. We recommend getting an estate agent or attorney to look it all over before submitting it.
6. Put down a deposit! This might send chills down your spine, but it is one of the final steps you need to take before becoming a fully-fledged property owner. And that’s exciting!

One of the biggest pieces of advice we can impart as you jump into the property pool is: Have the experts on your side. Our most trusted ones are from
Ooba Home Loans. This is what they can do for you:

• apply to multiple banks including your own with only one application
• provide you with multiple quotes to compare
• negotiate rate & terms where necessary
• help secure a zero deposit bond if required, and much more.

Captivating culture in the heart of East London

East London is a hub of South African culture. The Miriam Makeba Centre of Performing Arts is pivotal in making this culture come alive, bursting with talent. 

So, who was Miriam Makeba and what makes her such an important South African icon?

Miriam Makeba was a South African singer, daughter, mother, and an anti-apartheid activist. In 1960, after her exile from South Africa, she used her success to shine light on some of the harsh realities of apartheid. She also used the gift of her incredible voice to sing powerful political songs, as well as delivered two speeches at the United Nations. Miriam put African music on the international map, with genres covering Afropop, Jazz and World Music. She was given the nickname ‘Mama Africa’, and is loved by South Africans to this day.

Proudly from East London: A centre for creative arts excellence

In 2003 The University of Fort Hare opened the Miriam Makeba Centre of Performing Arts. The Centre is known for its unparalleled excellence, attracting and nurturing some of the best talent in the field of Creative Arts, particularly in music and film.

In 2006 the Centre was relaunched as a partnership project between the UFH and the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC). It is an extremely important asset to the community of East London - it boasts one of the most advanced recording infrastructures in the country. It provides high-quality academic music programmes and multimedia production services to the academic, corporate and arts and culture across the province of the Eastern Cape. 

East London: A truly vibrant community

The Miriam Makeba Centre is home to state-of-the-art pre- and post-multimedia production facilities and is well-positioned to produce, record and market the diverse artistic talent of the Eastern Cape to arts and culture consumers. It does this through music, film (videography) and photography - with a central focus on developing and empowering artists of the Eastern Cape - in the creative sector.

With everything it has to offer, East London is growing and going places. With RockCliff Living within close proximity to the hustle of the city, and the corners of culture - it is perfectly positioned for families, those who are embarking on a new career path, and young adults pursuing studies or entering the job market.

Why rent when you can own?

To rent, or to buy? It’s not an easy decision, but it does have an effect on your future goals, lifestyle and possibly your financial stability too.

While renting offers fixed monthly payments, owning a home provides a sense of security. Like most things, each option comes with pros and cons.

So, which is better, renting or buying? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t that easy to answer. Buying a home isn’t always what it is made out to be, and renting isn’t always stress-free. Let’s dig a little deeper into the upside and benefits of renting vs buying, so you can choose the best option according to your financial health and personal preferences.

Good investments vs Volatile Market Factors

People often prefer buying a home as it can be considered a way of securing your long-term future finance. Also, most people feel pride in owning a home instead of paying rent. Owning a home is almost always a good investment, but it’s also volatile, and there are factors that can impact the value of your property. Some of these factors are:

• Economic instability
• Environmental issues, including nearby factories, toxic wastes, landfills, etc.
• Antique interiors, which doesn’t meet modern construction standards survive the modern challenges
• Outdoor conditions, including your gardens and the land surrounding your property
• Repairs and maintenance

RockCliff Living: The Ideal Community to Rent or Buy

Despite the uncertainties Covid-19 has bought across many sectors, the residential property market has proven to be one of South Africa’s more resilient industries, despite all the challenges. Many are finding homes and forming lifestyles in more affordable areas in the peripheral suburbs of the metro areas. RockCliff Living is a prime example of one of these booming communities - finding a balance between affordability, lifestyle and convenience. Close enough to the hustle and bustle of the city, safe and secure, and with endless opportunity.

East London's top five activities for kids

Having things that you can enjoy together is great for family bonding and forging a sense of togetherness. There are many wonderful opportunities for adventure, fun, education and leisure for the whole family in East London, one of South Africa’s most family-friendly residential towns. Scroll through some of the best places and top-rated spots to discover and enjoy with your sprogs, kiddiwinks and extended family:

1. Visit Nahoon Beach

   Nahoon beach is a popular coastal playground for families with safe swimming, sand dunes, and stunning views. The whole family will love spending time at this beautiful spot.

2. Pop into Hemingways Mall

   Enjoy an array of entertainment options, shopping opportunities, and restaurants for a fun day out.

3. Visit the East London Museum

   Discover the rich heritage and history of this region at the local museum. One of the biggest attractions here is viewing a coelacanth, a fish previously believed to be long extinct. The museum was also where Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer, who discovered the prehistoric fish species over 80 years ago!

4. Discover life under the ocean at East London Aquarium

   Check out the notorious ‘red piranha’ and other exotic species at Mzansi’s oldest public aquarium established in 1931. Take a tour of the aquarium to see a range of marine animal life at play.

5. Go wild at the East London Lion Park

   An exciting day at the Lion Park includes learning about these majestic big cats and watching them from a safe distance. Roarrrr!!!

East London: A fast-growing economy in the Eastern Cape

The vibrant coastal city of East London is widely recognised as a rapidly-expanding metropolitan hub, which is great news for investors and residents alike. It is the second-largest industrial centre in the Eastern Cape, presenting several opportunities for future business expansion.

The strongest industry has been identified as motor manufacturing, creating products for both local and international markets. The seaside city is home to a large Mercedes Benz plant, which forms part of a global production network.

East London also has a small national airport, with between 20 - 30 flights per day (pre-Covid), bringing around 350 000 people to the city each year. In addition, the well-established harbour is responsible for a strong exporting network, with products being shipped to the UK, Japan, and Australia.

The East London Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) was established on the West Bank in 2004, close to both the port and airport. This site is one of four duty-free development areas in South Africa, which presents many entrepreneurial opportunities for this region. With strong intervention from the South Africa government and increasing tourism, the local economy is projected to continue on an upwards trajectory.

All of this makes an investment in RockCliff Living even more worthwhile!

Ten fun facts about East London RockCliff residents should know

East London has a pretty interesting history. Below are ten fun facts for you to share with your friends and family.

Did you know that:

1. East London is affectionately called ‘the Buffalo City’ because of the Buffalo River that runs through it.
2. The seaside city was originally known as 'Port Rex'. The name has its origin with George Rex, a British sea captain who landed at the mouth of the Buffalo River in 1823. Up until 1847, East London was simply called Port Rex.
3. East London is South Africa's only river port. The existing port, located at the mouth of the Buffalo River, has been operating since 1870.
4. The unique double-decker bridge over the Buffalo River in East London was completed in 1935 and to this day, is the only bridge of its type in South Africa.
5. The Prince George Circuit was opened in East London in 1959. This racetrack hosted 3 Formula 1 South African Grand Prix races in the 1960s.
6. Forty years after it was established as a British settlement, in 1875, East London had a population of 2134, according to census reports. Today East London has an estimated population of about 350 to 400 000 permanent residents, with over 700 000 in the greater metropolitan area.
7. East London is at the northern end of a 300 kilometre stretch of coastline that’s been dubbed the "Sunshine Coast". The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its many kilometres of pristine, unpolluted beaches. St Francis Bay at the southern end of the route.
8. Triathlon is a popular sport in this coastal city and hosts the world-famous Ironman 70.3 event annually in January. The event starts and finishes at famed Orient Beach.
9. East London is well-known as a surfing mecca, and its beaches are among the best in South Africa.
10. Fossilised human and animal footprints and artifacts from the Xhosa-tribe can be viewed at the East London Museum as well as a prehistoric fish species, the coelacanth, previously thought to have gone extinct.

Meet the team creating RockCliff Living

As the saying goes, it takes a village (to raise a child), and building the perfect community-centric estate is no exception to this rule. When creating something special, you need talent and teamwork.

The visionary development team working together tirelessly to create RockCliff Community is making sure it ticks every box for new homeowners, no matter what stage or phase of their lives they’re in. Their collective goal is to empower residents, lead impact investment and to bring about real economic transformation in the property and infrastructure sectors in East London.

So, who are the multitude of companies and their people who are behind RockCliff Living?

KLS Consulting Engineers is a leading structural engineering practice made up of a young, energetic and spirited team. Their goal is to ensure each project is successfully completed according to specific requirements and regulations. They assist with structural engineering as well as NHBRC certifications.

Inani Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd provides civil engineering solutions to a wide spectrum of local and international clients in both private and public sectors. Their approach helps clients to plan, design, and deliver small-or large-scale developments that are efficient, practical and cost-effective at every stage of the project lifecycle.

Makukhane Consulting Engineers is an electrical consulting engineering and project management practice that has been carrying out superior professional service since its establishment in 1992. They employ a dynamic team of professional engineers, who specialise in electrical engineering, bringing light to RockCliff Living.

STBB is one of the largest property law firms in the country, with 93 attorneys across 11 branches. Their land development specialists assist new homeowners, who will receive the services from their benchmark conveyancing teams. Prospective buyers are granted live access to STBB’s Direct App, which offers 24/7 online access to case progress reports and updates, as well as unique features in which all the important documents are stored for purchasers in a secure eVault.

ooba Home Loans is one of the largest home loan services in South Africa. It offers customers absolute peace of mind when it comes to finding the best home loan for their pocket. Ooba assists RockCliff Living homeowners-to-be with prequalification, checking their affordability (to ensure you’re shopping in the right price range). By multi-submitting to all the banks, they guarantee to get you the best deal on your purchase.

TEDCO offers risk-based advisory services in the property, infrastructure and business development sectors through rigorous risk-based modelling and project preparation. This helps to bridge the gap between capital and the implementation of projects and business ideas. TEDCO are the development managers for the RockCliff Living development, where they have structured and planned the project for its full project lifecycle.

Settlement Planning Services (SETPLAN) is a firm of multi-disciplinary development planning consultants. They are committed to making a meaningful contribution to the development of Southern Africa. SETPLAN is the co-founder of the RockCliff development and was instrumental in taking the development forward from an approved layout plan to practical new mixed-use development.

AGES Omega (Pty) Ltd forms part of the AGES Group of Companies which celebrates more than 30 years of rendering geo-environmental consulting services throughout Southern Africa. The company consists of a dynamic and dedicated team of professionals which include geologists, geohydrologists, engineering and environmental geologists, geo- technicians, natural resource, environmental and social development specialists.

Full Circle Properties has over 30 years' combined experience in the market with a dynamic and exciting team, focusing on professionalism and personal attention to each and every client. Their success in the property industry is defined by the ability to fulfill clients’ goals - the key focus of our business.

Advocate Zanda Roloff is a specialist in construction contract law. She has been appointed as the construction legal practitioner for the RockCliff Living Development Project to prepare and implement the construction contracts and ensure proper claims and risk mitigation and management.

Viridian Landscape is a company committed to excellence in designing the built environment. They provide responsive, environmentally friendly, economically efficient, professional landscape services with the goal of improving the environment and preserving the planet for future generations.

Synion is a multifaceted management consultancy offering an all-encompassing approach to business. They advise leaders on strategy, organisation, marketing, communication, and operations. Their inclusive range of services works holistically to generate leads, convert prospects into lucrative businesses, and increase market share.

G Studio Branding Agency is a specialised team of bespoke branding specialists, working with small, medium and large businesses and offering tailored solutions to create and maintain sustainable brands to weather an ever-changing landscape. They use tech and data to gain relevant insights that inform strategic thinking. They invent, create, market, and produce distinct identities and campaigns for brands that will imprint their relevance in the minds of their target audiences.

Clearly, you are in excellent hands at RockCliff Living!

Being a landlord means being organised and firm. You need to be very disciplined to make a success of it and to find the right tenants. You also need to get a good, legally binding and clearly-worded rental contract in place for these tenants and ensure that they pay their rent in full and on time every month. Here are some tips to help you succeed!

1. TREAT YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY LIKE A BUSINESS

   Your rental property is a major investment, and no doubt your tenant is helping you cover bond expenses to pay it off. That means you need to protect them and yourself by having all the right paperwork in place. If you get stuck, consider reaching out to a rental agent to help you will all the legalities and with finding the right reliable tenant.

2. FIND RELIABLE TENANTS

   These days, it is best to advertise online if you have a property to rent out. You can use platforms like Facebook or Gumtree to advertise for tenants. Ask potential tenants to email you, rather than call, otherwise you will be fielding calls all day and night. Serious tenants will take the trouble to mail you as you have requested.

3. SCREENING TENANTS

   It’s essential to have a proper application process for potential tenants. Never sign a contract without doing a background check on the applicant first. This includes asking for the following information. [If a prospective tenant cannot provide all of these things it should serve as a major red flag and they are best avoided]:

   At least three months’ worth of the applicant’s latest bank statements (look carefully at what they spend their money on and if they earn enough to cover the rent and live comfortably).

   Positive professional references from their past and present employers.

   Respectful references or testimonials from previous landlords.

4. GET A CLEARLY-WORDED CONTRACT

   Make sure your rental contract makes clear your responsibilities as lessor/landlord and those of your tenant. Decide on things like how long the notice period should be if they decide to move out (60 days is recommended), their deposit (usually two months’ rental paid as an upfront deposit to cover wear and tear or damages to your property.) Ask a property agent to assist you if you need help or guidance with a contract.

5. KEEP MONEY ASIDE FOR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

   Toilets get blocked, walls get dirty, tiles chip, ovens break. Not immediately, but after a few years, there is natural wear and tear on any home. Save some portion of your rental income each month to save towards costs of upkeep and maintenance. That way you won’t have to worry about settling large and unexpected maintenance bills down the line.

Good luck making a success of your rental property. If you follow these basic tips, you should do great!

Investing in property is a big step in your journey to financial independence and creating security for yourself and your loved ones. It also means you will need to work more carefully with your money going forward. Now that you have a bond to pay off, you need to make your salary stretch further.

This may well mean cutting down on a few luxuries, but it is definitely worth it if you can own your own home by being disciplined with money.

Calculate monthly expenses

Your first step is to write down all your monthly expenses. Sit down with your bank statements and all your credit card payments. Look carefully at where you’re spending the most money. This includes:

• The bond repayment for your new home
• Any insurance you have (like medical or car insurance), as well as housing insurance you have taken out to protect your brand-new investment in an apartment, simplex, duplex, or free-standing home at RockCliff Living!
• Groceries, which include food, toiletries, cleaning products, etc.
• School and extramural fees for children (if relevant)
• Utilities: water, electricity, internet, and cellphone contracts or data packages
• Petrol/public transport fees/car repayments

The next step is to subtract the total expenses from your income, or you and your partner’s joint income.

Are things looking a little tight? If so, your next step is figuring out where you can reduce spending.

Where to cut down expenses

Should you find that things aren’t quite balancing out, you may need to look at eating out less, making cheaper meals, etc. There are many areas one can cut down on spending.

These include:

• Take out meals, coffees, etc.
• Going out for drinks, shows to clubs
• Going out to restaurants and rather eating at home
• Buying expensive name-brand clothes, shoes and accessories • Buying expensive tech toys like fancy cell phones, tablets, etc.
• Paying off an expensive car when you could drive something cheaper
• Facials, hairdresser, spa treatments, etc.

Consider your priorities carefully. If you want to be a successful and solvent homeowner, it may mean tightening your belt for a few years when it comes to dazzle, flair and entertainment.

Just think smart.

You can still have fun – like having a “bring and braai” at home with friends at RockCliff Living!

Make saving a priority

Keep in mind that apart from your home loan repayment, you will need to set some money aside for maintenance and repairs on your property down the line. You may need to do some painting and fix things over time. It makes sense to put a little money aside in a savings account for this and other emergencies. Good luck on your journey. If you’ve reached this point you are definitely on the right track! Keep up the good work.

It’s amazing how a few clever decorating tricks can make rooms feel bigger and more spacious than they actually are. Read on to see how you can maximise space in your new home at RockCliff Living.

Tip 1: Choice of wall colours

Painting the walls of a room a lighter shade always makes it feel bigger. This is because light colours reflect light, whereas dark colours absorb it. If you choose colours like white, cream, beige, or light grey you will immediately create a sense of space. Any off-white shade has the same effect. Tip: Paint your skirtings and wall trim an even lighter colour than your walls and rooms will feel even larger! This is because it creates the illusion to the eye that walls are even farther back, making your living space feel even bigger.

Tip 2: Create lots of light

Use the natural light that comes through windows or use desk lamps to add light to darker spaces. This will definitely make them feel larger.

Tip 3: Cut clutter and don’t overdecorate

The less ‘stuff’ you have in a room, the more spacious it will feel. Try to keep spaces tidy and pack away unnecessary things into cupboards. A few scatter cushions with a bright colour or pattern, a pot plant here and there, and some larger-sized framed posters or prints for wall art will create a calm, serene and open-feeling room space.

Tip 4: Hang some mirrors

Hanging mirrors in the right place can create an illusion of depth and more space. Mirrors also reflect light and allow room features to reflect back, creating the illusion of walls extending further back. Don’t overdo the mirrors, but choose a few strategic spots to hang them.

Stick to these four key principles and you’ll create an elegant space that feels larger than it is and that communicates a sense of calm and ease. Happy decorating!

Staying productive and focused when working from home (instead of at an office or other formal place of work) takes some getting used to. Thanks to the global pandemic, many of us have had to work remotely at some point over the past two years. And some people have been more successful at it than others.

So, what is the secret to success when working from home?

Set a routine and have daily goals

It’s very important to maintain some sense of structure to ensure that you aren’t over-or under-performing. It helps to have set tasks that need to be completed and to get things done within formal work hours.

Set specific professional daily intentions

Set yourself a goal or have a vision for what it is you want to achieve that day. Doing this helps you work towards something and create a sense of purpose which will help you work in a more motivated and goal-directed fashion.

Keep regular hours

Start your working day at regular office hours (between 8 am and 9 am at the latest). It takes discipline to do this but it also helps motivate you to get going in the morning when there isn’t a supervisor looking over your shoulder. Take a shower and get dressed You will be more motivated to work and get into a productive mindset if you get out of your pyjamas. It may seem like a small thing, but showering, brushing your teeth, making the bed, dressing in a fresh set of clothes go a long way toward putting you in a more professional state of mind. Try it!

Have a designated workspace

Choose a space in your home where your work doesn’t intrude on or affect other people in your household and where you won’t get easily distracted. Find a quiet, stress-free zone for yourself where you can concentrate entirely on work. Try to sit up and at a table or desk when working. This will help your posture and stop you from slipping off into a nap, as might happen if you work from a bed or sofa!

Take regular breaks

It’s important to get some fresh air, stretch your legs and get out of the same headspace for a bit. At RockCliff Living, you’ll be able to head outside your home for a lovely, revitalising stroll. This will help you to stay more focused when you head back to your desk. Take a break at least once every 90 minutes for 5-10 minutes and stretch your muscles out a bit!

Connect with co-workers

Whether it’s via an online chat, email, phone calls or drinks after work, make sure that you maintain social connection with your colleagues so that you still feel a sense of connection with the outside world. Share jokes and daily experiences and make an effort to meet up in your free time with co-workers that are friendly and supportive.

Reward yourself for being productive

When you’ve done well with work, it helps to reward yourself with a nice dinner or even an outing in the evening. This will encourage you to keep up your productivity and reduce stress. You’ve got this!