Estate Living Magazine Alfresco Living - Issue 36 December 2018 | Page 36

St Francis Links invests Clause isn’t surprised to see St Francis Links going from strength
significant time and effort to strength. He admits that the estate experienced some difficult
in creating this lifestyle. years following its stellar launch in 2006, when 90% of the homesites
The estate cultivates its were sold out in 18 months. This was largely a consequence of the
hallmark community culture economic turbulence of the time, during which time the homesites
by hosting regular events, lost half of their value. Happily, following an efficient restructuring
concerts and shows, and even exercise, all is back on track. ‘We have sold 240 properties during
children’s parties.
the past four years – notably, to people who want to live on the
estate and are already building their homes, rather than speculators.’
There is also strong emphasis on communication
between the homeowners association and the board of directors.
This is evidenced by the 57 properties that have been transferred
during the past 12 months.
Clause maintains that this is one of the secrets of success. ‘Like any
estate, we have some issues about noisy neighbours. But we aren’t What’s next for the St Francis Links? ‘We are currently working with
dogged by the more complicated politics,’ he says with pride. This a hotel group to realise the next stage of our plans,’ Clause informs.
harmony is certainly aided by a philosophy that ‘places home owners The hotel, when complete, will offer 60 one- and two-bedroom
on a pedestal’, along with a thorough strategy that sees the Exco units that will be sold on a sectional title basis, and can therefore be
(headed by Clause) meeting regularly with team leaders to discuss returned to a rental pool. This will enable St Francis Links to attract
relevant points and update each other on progress in critical areas. discerning guests who prefer the hotel conveniences as well as a
‘We run the HOA like a business. Again, we try to anticipate needs conference market that seeks overnight accommodation.
and answer them even before people become aware of them.’
‘It’s an exciting time for us,’ he concludes.
In addition, the estate makes use of GLOVent to manage and
communicate issues which may affect residents and members, such
as electricity outages or the logistics of the monthly get-together.
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