Pretoria

The Capital of Gauteng

Pretoria, located in the Gauteng province, is the administrative capital of the Republic of South Africa. Pretoria stretches along both sides of the Apies River and extends into the western foothills of the Magaliesberg on the east. Pretoria was founded in 1855 by Marthinus, son of Andries Pretorius. The city was named after this statesman and it became the capital of the Transvaal in 1860. In 1910 it became the administrative capital of South Africa and was declared a city in 1931.

During the South African War (1899–1902), Winston Churchill was imprisoned here (1899) until his escape. The Peace of Vereeniging, ending the war, was signed at Melrose House on May 31, 1902.

Pretoria is a popular city and an urban living destination close to all major routes. Not only does its natural beauty stands out, it boasts a few historic landmarks as well as the popular Jakaranda trees that blooms in October and November every year, covering the city in purple blooms and rich fragrances.

Pretoria is primarily a seat of government, but it is also an important rail and industrial center. Economic activities include engineering, food processing, and diamond mining. In 2000, Pretoria became part of the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. The population estimate is about 2,2125,000 million people.

The housing market in Pretoria continues to grow by the day, with countless new developments added every month. This is exactly why it so popular and a great property investment. A residential area that we focus on is Pretoria East, also known as the Old East. This is a vibey, yet classic area with classically spacious houses with well established gardens. It is important to note that most houses in this area has been renovated with luxury finishes. The stunning views from the East offer postcard panoramas of the City, with is an especially beautiful view of the iconic Union Buildings. 

FNB reported this week that, in a very weak economy, house prices have increased by only 3.5% in the three months of 2019, compared to the same period last year. As of now, the average price of properties in Pretoria is R 2 500 000. There are currently 28193 properties on the market in Pretoria.

Some of the popular areas in the East include: Waterkloof, Monument Park, Rietvalleirand, Erasmuskloof, Garsfontein, Elardus Park, Moreleta Park and Faerie Glen.

The most luxurious and expensive estate in the East is the Mooikloof Equestrian Estate with the Ambassador’s house worth R26 million.

The City has lively activities like tree acrobatics with Acrobranch. Pretoria have some of the best restaurants in South Africa, like the Italian restaurant name Alfie’s, Live bands like Park Acoustics on a Sunday, some of the best beer in town at Capital Craft or an adventurous mountain biking trail at the Groenkloof Park, with too many activities to list here!

Written by: Tiaan Skinner, Real Estate practitioner at Property Tree