Despite (or, some may argue, due to) the economic recession property remains a sound investment and Centurion properties are most certainly not the exception to this rule. Situated halfway between Midrand and Tshwane (previously Pretoria), Centurion (previously Verwoerdburg) has gone from being a sleepy little suburb to a bustling metropolis in a few short years and it is growth like this that makes it an attractive investment opportunity for companies and individuals alike.

Subsequent to South Africa's very first democratic elections in 1994, Centurion, much like the rest of urban SA, experienced unprecedented growth as businesses began to outgrow their premises and moved out of the CBD to find new quarters. This rapid development expanded, and continues to expand, the city limits, to the extent where there is now very little land left to develop between Centurion and Tshwane to the north, as well as Midrand to the South. According to conservative estimations, the larger part of Gauteng will be part of one big city by the time 2015 rolls around. With this in mind, existing property becomes ever more valuable. The time is unequivocally ripe to invest in Centurion property.

Centurion holds many charms for both the residential and commercial buyer. The infrastructure is well-developed and includes various shopping malls, entertainment facilities, as well as several golf courses and a driving range. In terms of healthcare there is U.N.I.T.A.S, the biggest private hospital in all of Africa, which has access to a helipad and forms part of the reputable Netcare group. Other large companies that have set up shop in Centurion include Denel Aerospace Systems, Telkom and Siemens to name but a few. Schools are plentiful and located within easy reach of residential areas, which makes commuting easier for busy parents.

Despite being home to a large number of big businesses, residential property in Centurion still manages to retain a certain charm that makes it attractive to families and young working professionals. The sense of community is very strong and a number of churches and community centres operate from within its boundaries.

Here are a few things to bear in mind when investing in property in Centurion:

1. Determine your risk tolerance. If you are looking for a stable investment you are better off buying property in middle- and upper-class neighbourhoods. However, if you feel a bit more adventurous you could invest in lower income neighbourhoods that have the potential to develop, in which case your investment would skyrocket.

2. Take a good look at the neighbours. If a neighbourhood mostly consists of families and elderly people you can safely assume that a property in this are will be a stable investment. Other positive indicators are well-developed school systems and a healthy job market.

3. Don't fix what isn't broken - at least not at first. If you do decide to take the road less travelled and invest in a property that is situated in a developing neighbourhood, don't glam it up straight off the bat. While you are waiting for the yuppies to take over the area you are probably going to be renting to lower-income individuals who will not have the means to pay more for a rooftop Jacuzzi or industrial gas range. Wait until you are sure you'll be seeing a return on your investment before you start spending.

Whichever way you look at it, Centurion property is an option every savvy investor ought to consider. Happy house hunting!

About the Author:

Martin Forrester heads up a company that sells commercial property in Centurion and recently branched out to include residential Centurion properties.

Author: Gen Wright