Ronel van der Linde, licensee for Seeff Pretoria East
Trilogy Menlyn Maine Penthouse with its own lap pool, landscaped garden, bespoke finishes and features, and sophisticated security, on the market for R9.9 million
Luxury penthouses have popped up all over the country over the last decade offering some of the most spectacular views and luxury living. From Cape Town to Sandton, and now also in the Menlyn Maine precinct in Pretoria, these are now sought-after by high-end buyers, says Ronel van der Linde, licensee for Seeff Pretoria East.
Penthouse living follows a global trend of high demand from wealthy buyers for these homes in the sky, usually in main metro areas, and mix from coastal to luxury urban settings.
Aside from the status aspect, location, exclusivity, views and bespoke design and finishes are among the reasons why penthouse purchasers are prepared to pay a premium for these properties.
Prices tend to vary depending on the location, and the property itself. Typically, penthouses carry a premium of around 40% to 50% higher compared to other apartments in the same building. High-end penthouses in Cape Town have for example sold at prices upwards of R50 million to R110 million. Umhlanga penthouses have sold for up to R50 million (Pearls of Umhlanga), while Sandton/Joburg penthouses have reportedly sold for up to R75 million.
In the Pretoria East area, the high-end penthouses around the Menlyn Maine Precinct typically range in the upper millions, averaging at around R7m to R17m, says Ronel. One of these exclusive properties is the Trilogy Menlyn Maine Penthouse which comes with its own lap pool, landscaped garden and sophisticated security, and is on the market for R9.9 million.
The location is prime with Menlyn Maine Precinct incorporating a business hub, and offering access to main arterials, top schools, the University of Pretoria as well as Menlyn Mall.
The property is tucked away in a private wing of a premier security development and offers high-end craftsmanship and bespoke finishes. The modern interiors flow seamlessly to the outdoor entertainment area overlooking the pool and garden. An abundance of floor-to-ceiling glass doors allow for natural light and spectacular vistas.
Finishes include a Miele-fitted kitchen with integrated appliances, state-of-the-art combustion fireplace in the lounge, three opulent en-suite bedrooms with the main suite featuring an indulgent spa-like bathroom. There’s also a staff suite, three secure basement parking bays (one oversized), a storeroom, and sophisticated security including indoor beams, intercom systems, and electric fencing.
Ronel says typical buyers of penthouses are usually HNW (high-net-worth) individuals who either purchase for own use, or for investment purposes. Despite the exclusivity, these properties offer quite a broad appeal including being in high demand as Airbnb investments.
Penthouses appeal to top level professionals and executives, and businesses which need to host visiting executives or guests, as well as international buyers from abroad, or increasingly from other African countries with business interests in the city.
These exclusive residences are also popular with buyers looking to downgrade from a big home and responsibilities to enjoy more free time and an exclusive lifestyle. They offer the convenience of a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle while reflecting exclusivity and status for those who have achieved significant success, says Ronel.
