For a couple who wanted to live near a golf course (he) and design their own house (she), the Conradies’ new home at the Sardinia Bay Golf & Wildlife Estate could not have worked out better.
They only took occupation in October, but Etienne and Corliet are already singing the praises of the Port Elizabeth development – as well as the process of building their house.
This was done using the plot and plan option and they agree it is a process they would recommend to anyone in their position.
Having lived in the PE suburbs of Kabega and Sunridge, the couple were looking for a retirement option when they spoke to Alan Moore of RE/MAX Bay Properties, an agent for the Sardinia Bay Golf & Wildlife Estate.
“When we saw the plot, we fell in love with it and we said to Alan, ‘if we can get this plot, you have a deal’,” says Etienne.
“All the finances were approved in December last year and building began in February. We moved in on October 24.”
He says the premise of the plot and plan option is that you are provided with a basic design, which you can add to or alter slightly to suit your needs.
“I bought the plot for a certain amount and then we were presented with a budget for the construction of the house according to the final plan, which is decided on by us and the architects.
“There was a lot of communication with Alan and his team about what we would require. They made suggestions about every facet of the construction – from sanitaryware to kitchen cupboards to light fittings.
As inevitably happens in life, says Etienne, you never stick strictly to the original plan, but the option allowed us to add things or make changes.
“If you want something that is, for instance, not included in the budgeted plan, they will do it and you must pay for that out your own pocket.”
Corliet says each area of the house – for example bathrooms, kitchen or lounge – is given a set amount within the budget, taking building costs into account, and you then make your choices according to that.
“The rest of the process is straightforward and what also helped is that the money is paid in set amounts according to the progress of the building.
“We did our finance through a bank and they would send out their assessors on a regular basis to check that construction was up to the required standard before making payment.
“So that is something that is really helpful if you are busy working or perhaps are not that knowledgeable about the standards of the building industry.”
The couple have nothing but praise for the RE/MAX marketing team, project manager Matt Gibbs and Master Builder Wilfred Finnes.
“They were with us every step of the way and initially we used to consult with them once a week,” says Etienne.
“But as it drew closer to the finish we were there sometimes two or three times a day to make sure all the fittings were done exactly how we wanted them.
“For us it was a very simple process and we would recommend the plot and plan option to anyone.”
Looking back on the project, the Conradies are thrilled with how everything turned out.
“I have my wish of living on a golf course, with wildlife surrounding us, and Corliet was able to put her design ideas into her own home, so we are very happy,” says Etienne.
“We do have a snag list before we settle the final amount, so that allows us to check that everything is in order.
“But the process we went through and the final product are perfect, particularly with the peace and tranquillity of the estate.
“This was a dream for us and we both got what we wanted.”