NEWSLETTERO U B A A I

LandRover Takes over Paris Auto Show with two global debuts

featuring ...

Tee up for the2014 ANNUAL OUBAAI HOA

GOLF DAYHYATTIMPORTANT NOTICE

Estate Manager

Ernie’s Diaries

Home Improvement Reminders

Golfer

Elvis Blue

abuzzwine.com

Property Barometer

Energy E�cient Homes

Jaguar and Landrover

CONTENTSMessage from Estate Manager’s Desk

Team golf like nothing else

General

by Piet Pieters

Community

Virtual wine boutique

3rd Quarter 2014

General

Takes over Paris Auto show with two global debuts

www.oubaaigolfestate.co.za

Hyatt - Important NoticeMessage from the Chairman

Dear Homeowner,

The Oubaai Home Owner’s Association had gathered noteworthy momentum in the last year or so, when the home owners took control of the HOA. We have an e�ective management team and board of trustees in place, and we have signi�cantly improved our capital reserves. The developer, Khara� Holdings (Pty) Ltd is represented on the Board, in a non-voting capacity.

At our AGM, which was held in June this year, it was resolved to keep the levies more or less the same.

Oubaai remains an excellent product and lifestyle of choice. At our AGM, we earmarked funds for the marketing of Oubaai and members will be informed of our strategy going forward to promote “Brand Oubaai”, at a meeting that we are planning for December 2014. We will let you know the exact date shortly.

In the interim, many of you may have noted the announcement, yesterday, which The Hyatt Regency Oubaai Resort and Spa will no longer be operated as a Hyatt Hotel.

We understand from Walid Nasser of Khara� Hospitality (Pty) Ltd, the owner of the Resort and Spa, that the terms of the agreement with Hyatt International are con�dential but that the termination was mutually agreed to. Negotiations as to who will be operating the Resort and Spa are ongoing but, in the interim, it is “business as usual” and Khara� Hospitality will endeavour to achieve a smooth transition with minimum impact to guests, homeowners, golf club members.

The Oubaai Home Owners Association Board of Trustees will do everything in their power to protect and enhance the “Brand Oubaai” in the transition phase. We will also advise our members as soon as the announcement is made by Khara� as to who will be operating the Resort and Spa into the future.

Warm Oubaai greetings.

Fleetwood GroblerChairman

MANAGERMessage from the Estate Manager ’s Desk

Estate Th

eE

rnie

’s by Willem Marx

MANAGEREstate

As 2014 rapidly draws to a close and the Festive Season is upon us, I wanted to take a minute to thank you for the trust you have placed in me and the Board of Trustees. It is always an honour to receive a personal call of gratitude, and it's a pleasure to help members no matter their requirement.

We commissioned a comprehensive survey to understand better how members felt about the Resort and the products and services. 23% of total members participated in the survey. The preliminary �ndings conclude that by far the majority of members who participated are appreciative of the way we do business, and overwhelmingly described their experience with us as positive.

It is encouraging and rewarding to see that 94% of members, who had interaction with the Oubaai Home Owners Association, �nd dealing with us as an excellent or a pleasant experience. It gives us an opportunity to improve and grow to achieve an even higher percentage of satisfaction.

The analysis of the survey is nearly complete and will provide Trustees with valuable insight regarding the needs of our members. Analysis is based on the number of members who answered a particular question, not the number of people who responded to the survey.

The residents and owners of Oubaai can be assured that the sta� and I are proactive in taking steps to maintain and improve the quality of service to residents and owners.The community we have does not happen by accident. Positive accomplishments are realised by the combined e�orts of your dedicated and committed sta� members, competent board members and commissions, local business and residents.

You can be assured that together we will continue to work to make Oubaai a unique place. We are happy to have you as a part of this great resort. It's good to be home, where Els?

he Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel is a destination like no other that we visit all year and as such it is a very special experience for all of us players. While we were there it was announced that the Venetian Macao has extended its title sponsorship of this tournament for a further two years until 2016 and also committed to an increase in the prize money. This successful association with Macau’s premier golf championship is sure to help furtherboost the game in this region and also provide the opportunity for Macau sports fans and the local community to watch world-class golf on their doorstep. That’s one of the great things about sporting events such as this; the television coverage is beamed to more than 180 nations around the world, but the tournament also engages with the local population and creates interest, inspiration and excitement.

My game wasn’t quite there last week, but I must congratulateIndia’s Anirban Lahiri on a fantastic win. We played together in last year’s Chiangmai Classic and I was impressed with this young man’s game, so for me personally it was no surprise to see his name on the top of the leaderboard on Sunday evening and is atestament to the high level of quality on the Asian Tour.Ern

ie’s

di

ary

Venetian Macau Open Preview T

he Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel is a destination like no other that we visit all year and as such it is a very special experience for all of us players. While we were there it was announced that the Venetian Macao has extended its title sponsorship of this tournament for a further two years until 2016 and also committed to an increase in the prize money. This successful association with Macau’s premier golf championship is sure to help furtherboost the game in this region and also provide the opportunity for Macau sports fans and the local community to watch world-class golf on their doorstep. That’s one of the great things about sporting events such as this; the television coverage is beamed to more than 180 nations around the world, but the tournament also engages with the local population and creates interest, inspiration and excitement.

My game wasn’t quite there last week, but I must congratulateIndia’s Anirban Lahiri on a fantastic win. We played together in last year’s Chiangmai Classic and I was impressed with this young man’s game, so for me personally it was no surprise to see his name on the top of the leaderboard on Sunday evening and is atestament to the high level of quality on the Asian Tour.

Before we move on I also want to congratulate 15-year old Luca Filippi, a member of the Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation, who in winning the Royal Cape Open last week became one of the youngest ever champions in an Amateur Club Open in the Western Province back home in South Africa. Luca is just one of many talented young players at the Foundation, all of them doing themselves– and us – proud.

We left Macau on Monday morning and headed for Malaysia’s stunning Langkawi archipelago where we have the o�cial opening of our new course, The Els Club Teluk Datai (pictured above and below), recently voted the region’s ‘Best Golf Course’ at the Asia Paci�c Property Awards – a great honour for us.

We’re cutting the ribbon on Tuesday and our partners in this project, Destinations Resorts and Hotels, have invited a number of dignitaries, VIP guests and local and international media to share the day with us. It’s certainly going to be a proud day for me and for everyone on the Ernie Els Design team. The setting for this, our third Els Club, nestled between ancient rainforest and the banks of the Andaman Sea, is unique and the golf course looks breathtaking.The feedback we’ve had from visitors and golfers has been overwhelmingly positive, which is gratifying and not altogether surprising – seriously, this place is just so beautiful!

Any new golf course opening is obviously a thrill for all of us and we’re sure that local and international golfers are going to be equally thrilled by The Els Club Teluk Datai for many years to come. Be assured that Troon Golf, who are managing the course, will guarantee exceptional playing surfaces and �rst-class standards of service on and o� the golf course. It’s what they do best.

Okay, that’s just about it for now. Once we’re �nished here at Langkawi we’ll be heading straight to Shanghai for back-to-back tournaments, starting with the BMW Masters. As it happens it was one of their sponsored events – the BMW Asian Open in 2005 – that gave me the biggest winning margin of my career, 13 shots, so I obviously have fantastic memories of that week and the way that BMW runs their events. The truth is, all BMW tournaments are organised in such an impressive fashion and they really have become among the premium events around the world, not only from a player’s point of view, but from a spectator’s standpoint too. BMW does things a little di�erently; they’ve got a formula and it works extremely well, so it’s exciting to be playing here this week.

ERNIE ELS

he Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel is a destination like no other that we visit all year and as such it is a very special experience for all of us players. While we were there it was announced that the Venetian Macao has extended its title sponsorship of this tournament for a further two years until 2016 and also committed to an increase in the prize money. This successful association with Macau’s premier golf championship is sure to help furtherboost the game in this region and also provide the opportunity for Macau sports fans and the local community to watch world-class golf on their doorstep. That’s one of the great things about sporting events such as this; the television coverage is beamed to more than 180 nations around the world, but the tournament also engages with the local population and creates interest, inspiration and excitement.

My game wasn’t quite there last week, but I must congratulateIndia’s Anirban Lahiri on a fantastic win. We played together in last year’s Chiangmai Classic and I was impressed with this young man’s game, so for me personally it was no surprise to see his name on the top of the leaderboard on Sunday evening and is atestament to the high level of quality on the Asian Tour.

mprovementsHome

he Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel is a destination like no other that we visit all year and as such it is a very special experience for all of us players. While we were there it was announced that the Venetian Macao has extended its title sponsorship of this tournament for a further two years until 2016 and also committed to an increase in the prize money. This successful association with Macau’s premier golf championship is sure to help furtherboost the game in this region and also provide the opportunity for Macau sports fans and the local community to watch world-class golf on their doorstep. That’s one of the great things about sporting events such as this; the television coverage is beamed to more than 180 nations around the world, but the tournament also engages with the local population and creates interest, inspiration and excitement.

My game wasn’t quite there last week, but I must congratulateIndia’s Anirban Lahiri on a fantastic win. We played together in last year’s Chiangmai Classic and I was impressed with this young man’s game, so for me personally it was no surprise to see his name on the top of the leaderboard on Sunday evening and is atestament to the high level of quality on the Asian Tour.

Before we move on I also want to congratulate 15-year old Luca Filippi, a member of the Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation, who in winning the Royal Cape Open last week became one of the youngest ever champions in an Amateur Club Open in the Western Province back home in South Africa. Luca is just one of many talented young players at the Foundation, all of them doing themselves– and us – proud.

We left Macau on Monday morning and headed for Malaysia’s stunning Langkawi archipelago where we have the o�cial opening of our new course, The Els Club Teluk Datai (pictured above and below), recently voted the region’s ‘Best Golf Course’ at the Asia Paci�c Property Awards – a great honour for us.

We’re cutting the ribbon on Tuesday and our partners in this project, Destinations Resorts and Hotels, have invited a number of dignitaries, VIP guests and local and international media to share the day with us. It’s certainly going to be a proud day for me and for everyone on the Ernie Els Design team. The setting for this, our third Els Club, nestled between ancient rainforest and the banks of the Andaman Sea, is unique and the golf course looks breathtaking.The feedback we’ve had from visitors and golfers has been overwhelmingly positive, which is gratifying and not altogether surprising – seriously, this place is just so beautiful!

Any new golf course opening is obviously a thrill for all of us and we’re sure that local and international golfers are going to be equally thrilled by The Els Club Teluk Datai for many years to come. Be assured that Troon Golf, who are managing the course, will guarantee exceptional playing surfaces and �rst-class standards of service on and o� the golf course. It’s what they do best.

Okay, that’s just about it for now. Once we’re �nished here at Langkawi we’ll be heading straight to Shanghai for back-to-back tournaments, starting with the BMW Masters. As it happens it was one of their sponsored events – the BMW Asian Open in 2005 – that gave me the biggest winning margin of my career, 13 shots, so I obviously have fantastic memories of that week and the way that BMW runs their events. The truth is, all BMW tournaments are organised in such an impressive fashion and they really have become among the premium events around the world, not only from a player’s point of view, but from a spectator’s standpoint too. BMW does things a little di�erently; they’ve got a formula and it works extremely well, so it’s exciting to be playing here this week.

mprovements

If you’re planning construction or home improvement projects on your property or in your unit, remember to follow a few simple steps to ensure you don’t run into problems with neighbours or the association down the road.

Remember, you must submit your plans to the design review committee (DRC) for approval before work begins.

Before construction begins, please obtain a certi�cate of work insurance and workers compensation insurance from your contractor. The general liability coverage should be at least 1 million, depending on the project. This will help protect you, other residents and the association in the event of accidents, damage or injuries during the course of construction.

All work must comply with the building guidelines, health and safety codes. The DRC is not responsible for ensuring your compliance, nor does the Design Review Committee’s approval imply compliance with local municipal requirements.

The DRC and the board have the right to inspect the work underway on your property to ensure it complies with the plans they approved and the architectural guidelines. You will be held �nancially responsible for any damage to the common elements or other property resulting from the work done on your project or by your contractor.

All work must be performed between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays and 8.am to 1 p.m on Saturdays. Sunday construction is prohibited.

You must arrange to have all project-related rubble and debris removed regularly. The association may bill you if it has to clean up a common area disturbed by your project.

go fer

Oubaai Golf Resort ResidentsEnjoy the bene�ts of Estate Living

We o�er discounted premiums on you home and vehicle insurance.Contact: George O�ce at 044 873 0735 or Gillian Lombard at gill@sapcor.co.za

Terms & conditions apply. SAPCOR is an Authorised Financial Services Provider. FSP license No. 43186

go fer

Oubaai Golf Resort ResidentsEnjoy the bene�ts of Estate Living

We o�er discounted premiums on you home and vehicle insurance.Contact: George O�ce at 044 873 0735 or Gillian Lombard at gill@sapcor.co.za

Terms & conditions apply. SAPCOR is an Authorised Financial Services Provider. FSP license No. 43186

O U B A A IGolf

go fer

go fer Once again the SAPCOR sponsored George South Primary School Fundraiser was a huge success – thank you Dolph and Mare! The highlight of the day was no doubt the Q and A session with all-time rugby legend Frik du Preez, who was the guest of honour. He shared many of his memories and what an unbelievable night we had.

The SCGU is hosting a meeting to discuss next year’s Men’s League on 3 November. I will keep you informed on where the league is heading but Oubaai will be a major part of next year’s League.

The Oubaai Member-Member tournament is around the corner and will take place on 20 and 21 December – get your partner lined up!! I will send full details on the tournament via our message broadcasting system.

UPCOMINGEVENTS

Vodacom22 October

OppieSee19 November

Pro Shop26 November

Golf Club AGM19 December

Member-Member20, 21 December

clubNEWS

course NEWS

I thinksummer

hasarrived…

After a week at Oubaai and slowly �nding my feet, we are seeing a change in the seasons.All be it we have had some inclement weather last week, but the days are warming up,and the mercury is slowly rising! With the days warming up, so does the soil temperatures, which in turn a�ects the growth of the grass out on the course. With increased soil temperatures we'll see the kikuyu out on the course slowly come to life again, as can be seen on some areas of the course where it has begun to green up.

We are in the process of putting down a foliar application of fertilizer on the fairways and this will assist with renewed growth. We have also begun irrigating the roughs and fairways more frequently to assist with soil moisture levels.

We have been working in the wetlands at the 1st tee, and the other wetlands around the course are slowly taking shape. The work that has been put in in previous months is now beginning to show.

I have found Oubaai to be a friendly environment, and the sta� on the course as well as at the clubhouse has be warm and welcoming. The members I have met so far have been very accommodating and welcoming. I am looking forward to the summer months ahead, and will strive to continue to provide the members with a golf course that proves to be an enjoyable experience. - by Rohan

The most important shot in golf,is the next one.

- Ben Hogan

NEWS

The all-new Tight Lies Hybrid combines our industry leading hybrid technologies with the new Ghost Slot Technology and all of the features that has made Tight Lies so successful. The combination of years of hybrid development experience, the nearly invisible crown slot, the low-pro�le body, and the Tri-Sole design makes this hybrid extremely easy to hit in order to help you #OwnTheSecondShot.

CLUBHOUSE specialsAvailable throughout the weekOrder a snack platter and get two glasses of Boplaas wine for R100.00Calamari Rings & Chips for R79.00

Saturday Nights - Order a beer bucket with 6 beers and 3 cheese pizza for only R99.00

Also look out for daily specials.

Hope to see you at the clubhouse soon!

*Members discount does not apply on specials

The all-new Tight Lies Hybrid combines our industry leading hybrid technologies with the new Ghost Slot Technology and all of the features that has made Tight Lies so successful. The combination of years of hybrid development experience, the nearly invisible crown slot, the low-pro�le body, and the Tri-Sole design makes this hybrid extremely easy to hit in order to help you #OwnTheSecondShot.

light is energy. light is victory. light is adizero one.

adizero one

give theg i f t o f donate blood

Life

4 NovemberS t u d i o 3 HYATT REGENCY OUBAAI11h00 UNTILL 15h00

Tee up for the2014 ANNUAL OUBAAI HOA

GOLF DAY17 DECEMBER 2014

O U B A A IHome Owners

adizero one

Shotgun Start at 13h00

Free round of golf for HOA members and

their guests

To book a fourball, please mail info@oubaaihoa.co.za

A dedicated husband and father, Elvis dedicates time and energy helping alleviate poverty by promoting education through Life Community Services in George, as well as empowering children through music at The Casterbridge Music Academy.

Although Elvis Blue came to national prominence in 2010 when he won the coveted Idols SA title, this gifted musician had dozens of professional performances and various releases to his name even before his participation in the thrilling and popular MNet production. The humble artist who today has the whole country at its feet with original songs like Things My Father Said, Lighthouse or Save Me, as well as covers like Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, elicits a wave of emotion from even the most stoic listener.

Elvis started performing as a young boy, singing in school choirs and busking in the streets of Joburg and Scotland. After a stint overseas as a street musician, Elvis returned to South Africa where he decided to study contemporary music. After appearing in numerous bands, Elvis developed a project where he sang under the name MONO, releasing three albums under this time. He then did two Afrikaans albums under his real name Jan Hoogendyk , and received an ATKV Lier Award, as well as a 2010 SAMA nomination.

In November 2010, Elvis Blue released the album simply titled Elvis Blue, his �rst album as SA’s newly crowned Pop Idol, and one that would consolidate all his years of hard work as a musician. The album shot up the radio and sales charts upon release, and reached Gold status. The �rst two singles Things My Father said and Lighthouse were massive hits, with the third single, Save Me, being playlisted across the country. A highlight for Elvis in 2011 was to support James Blunt on his Some Kind of Trouble tour.

The success Elvis Blue over the past few years enabled himself to invest in something very near and dear to his heart – The Elvis Blue Music Academy. The Academy was started by Elvis to teach underprivileged children the joy of music. The organisation provides instruments and instruction in a safe, warm environment. “Music has the ability to heal,” Elvis says. “This venture is living proof of that.” The Elvis Blue Music Academy operates in George in the Western Cape, and is rolling out in Alexandra in Gauteng in the near future.

The name Elvis Blue comes from an experience very dear to the artist. At a hospice and children’s home in George where he used to play guitar for the patients, he met a little boy whose dream was to be a keyboard player. His name was Elvis Blaauw, and when he passed away in 2009, as a tribute to this amazing young man, Jan Hoogendyk adopted his name and Elvis Blue was born.

If you don’t live in Cape Town, it can be inconvenient if you can’t �nd the South African wine you really want, at the price you want.

Well now there’s a brilliant, yet simple answer. abuzzWine, a Stellenbosch-based virtual wine boutique, supply over 1000 wines from more than 130 estates, all at cellar door prices, and deliver to your door. With shipping costs at a �at rate of only R52 per case to anywhere in the country, it still makes the wine cheaper that most stores, and you get the wine you want, delivered within 5 working days.

If you’re permanent resident at Oubaai, this is such an easy way to stock up your winecellar. And for those of you heading to Oubaai for your holidays - the wine will be delivered for when you arrive - no need to bring it with.

View the wine list on www.abuzzwine.com or email support@abuzzwine.co.za

Special Requests or Assistance (Sales Manager)Nick Plummer email: nick@abuzz.co.za

OTHER PRODUCTS AVAILABLE

abuzzWine also provides the abuzzBox - a delightful hand picked selection of fourwines, plus decadent goodies, such as olives, olive oil, gourmet co�ee, to�ee andfudge - a great gift idea, or self-indulgent treat. The wine contents can be varied, catering for every taste.

For an extra special gift, you can purchase a hand-made, cork-lined wooden sprucebox, containing a selection of three premium wines. The box comes in a variety of�nishes, and can be personalised to your individual or corporate gift requirements.

View this o�ers on www.abuzzwine.com

w ne.com

PROPERTYBuy to Let

3rd Quarter 2014by John Loos

Buy-to-let home buying percentage rise stalls

After having edged up gradually in prior quarters, the 3rd Quarter 2014 FNB Estate Agent Survey pointed to a stalling in Buy-to-Let buying as a percentage of total home buying. Agents surveyed still expect mild increase in buy-to-let buying in the near term, but their expectations regarding the magnitude improvement continue to taper.

The 3rd quarter 2014 FNB Estate Agent Survey pointed to a slight decline in the signi�cance of buy-to-let buying in the market, after prior quarters’ increases.

By this we mean that, as a percentage of total buying, buy-to-let purchases are estimated by survey respondents to have edged down slightly from 10% in the previous quarter to 9% in the 3rd Quarter. The decrease in the percentage of buy-to-let buying stalls a previous small rising trend.

This percentage remains mediocre in comparison to the estimated 25% back in early-2004 at the height of the property boom. Besides widespread household �nancial constraints still being in existence, and often only “masked” by very low interest rates at present, ongoing mediocrity in buy-to-let buying is probably explained by the rental market’s strengthening to date having remained modest, interest rates having started to rise, and tenants having limited means in the currently tough economic environment.

PROPERTYBuy to Let

3rd Quarter 2014

Buy-to-let home buying percentage rise stalls

After having edged up gradually in prior quarters, the 3rd Quarter 2014 FNB Estate Agent Survey pointed to a stalling in Buy-to-Let buying as a percentage of total home buying. Agents surveyed still expect mild increase in buy-to-let buying in the near term, but their expectations regarding the magnitude improvement continue to taper.

The 3rd quarter 2014 FNB Estate Agent Survey pointed to a slight decline in the signi�cance of buy-to-let buying in the market, after prior quarters’ increases.

By this we mean that, as a percentage of total buying, buy-to-let purchases are estimated by survey respondents to have edged down slightly from 10% in the previous quarter to 9% in the 3rd Quarter. The decrease in the percentage of buy-to-let buying stalls a previous small rising trend.

This percentage remains mediocre in comparison to the estimated 25% back in early-2004 at the height of the property boom. Besides widespread household �nancial constraints still being in existence, and often only “masked” by very low interest rates at present, ongoing mediocrity in buy-to-let buying is probably explained by the rental market’s strengthening to date having remained modest, interest rates having started to rise, and tenants having limited means in the currently tough economic environment.

Nevertheless, the buy-to-let percentage remains elevated from its lows of around 2010, and this in a higher volume market too, so some mild cumulative improvement has been achieved in recent years. This improved situation has been supported by low interest rates, an improved period of house price growth through 2012/13, with a portion of home buyers arguably focused heavily on capital growth prospects as they perceive it, and not solely on the rental income stream, and an improved tenant payment performance.

StatsSA provides some rental market insights via its consumer price index (CPI) surveys. The most recent surveys have pointed to a gradual rise in rental in�ation from 4.3% in mid-2012 to 5.16% year-on-year in the most recent CPI numbers.

Whilst not a strong improvement, higher rental in�ation of late has perhaps made buy-to-let buying slightly more attractive relative to a few years ago. In addition, the payment performance of tenants in recent years since the 2008/9 recession is improved. From a low of 71% early in 2009, the percentage of tenants “in good standing” regarding their rental payments recovered to 86% by mid-2013, according to TPN (Tenant Pro�le Network). This percentage declined slightly to 85% by early-2014 but now remains relatively stable at that level. Looking forward, it is possible that the weakened economy of recent times may start to exert greater pressure on the tenant population, but for the time being tenant payment performance remains relatively good, contributing to greater buy-to-let attractiveness than was the case a few years ago.

Against the above, however, rising interest rates may work against further increase in buy-to-let buying.

Also included in the FNB Estate Agent Survey is a question regarding the percentage of properties “being sold due to

lower than expected investment income”. The results from quarter to quarter can be volatile, and for this reason we smooth with a 4-quarter moving average. This percentage has ticked up slightly for the 4 quarters up until the 3rd quarter of 2014, from 3% of total selling in the 1st Quarter of 2014 to 3.75% by the 3rd Quarter. However, this percentage remains low by comparison with levels of pre-2013, with a high of 10.25% having been reached back in 2010.

The combination of a moderately higher buy-to-let percentage relative to previous years, ignoring the slight 3rd quarter decline, and relatively slow sales of rental properties should still contribute to a growing supply of rental stock. However, we believe that the current economic and interest rate environment should also support rental demand growth somewhat. Our expectation of further rises in interest rates in 2015, possibly causing some aspirant 1st time buyers to postpone their home purchase and rent for longer, as well as for a greater rental demand from a moderately increased number of �nancially constrained households, could see to it that rental in�ation continues to move gradually higher in the near term.

BUY-TO-LET OUTLOOK

At present, it would appear that the agents surveyed believe that mild strengthening in the Buy-to-Let market is still achievable in the near term, but the magnitude of expected strengthening has slowed.. In our survey, we ask them to state whether they expect buy-to-let demand to increase (which gets a rating of +1), stay the same (rated as zero) or decline (rates as -1).

The FNB Buy-to-let Market Con�dence Indicator is the average of these di�erent ratings, and the 3rd quarter survey came out a little less positive than the previous quarter at 0.051, slightly lower than the revised 0.055 of the previous quarter (scale of 1 to -1). This is the 4th successive quarter of decline in this index.

Being in positive territory suggests that the survey panel as a group is still biased towards strengthening buy-to-let demand in the near term, but the level of expected improvement has moderated, with the con�dence rating noticeably -down from a “high” of 0.087 back in the 3rd quarter of 2013.

Should interest rates indeed rise further, as we anticipate, a moderation in the rate of increase in buy-to-let buying seems a realistic expectation.

lower than expected investment income”. The results from quarter to quarter can be volatile, and for this reason we smooth with a 4-quarter moving average. This percentage has ticked up slightly for the 4 quarters up until the 3rd quarter of 2014, from 3% of total selling in the 1st Quarter of 2014 to 3.75% by the 3rd Quarter. However, this percentage remains low by comparison with levels of pre-2013, with a high of 10.25% having been reached back in 2010.

The combination of a moderately higher buy-to-let percentage relative to previous years, ignoring the slight 3rd quarter decline, and relatively slow sales of rental properties should still contribute to a growing supply of rental stock. However, we believe that the current economic and interest rate environment should also support rental demand growth somewhat. Our expectation of further rises in interest rates in 2015, possibly causing some aspirant 1st time buyers to postpone their home purchase and rent for longer, as well as for a greater rental demand from a moderately increased number of �nancially constrained households, could see to it that rental in�ation continues to move gradually higher in the near term.

BUY-TO-LET OUTLOOK

At present, it would appear that the agents surveyed believe that mild strengthening in the Buy-to-Let market is still achievable in the near term, but the magnitude of expected strengthening has slowed.. In our survey, we ask them to state whether they expect buy-to-let demand to increase (which gets a rating of +1), stay the same (rated as zero) or decline (rates as -1).

The FNB Buy-to-let Market Con�dence Indicator is the average of these di�erent ratings, and the 3rd quarter survey came out a little less positive than the previous quarter at 0.051, slightly lower than the revised 0.055 of the previous quarter (scale of 1 to -1). This is the 4th successive quarter of decline in this index.

Being in positive territory suggests that the survey panel as a group is still biased towards strengthening buy-to-let demand in the near term, but the level of expected improvement has moderated, with the con�dence rating noticeably -down from a “high” of 0.087 back in the 3rd quarter of 2013.

Should interest rates indeed rise further, as we anticipate, a moderation in the rate of increase in buy-to-let buying seems a realistic expectation.

Wheredreamersbecomedoers

www.nmmw.ac.za

power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to work machines.

POWER

Energy Efficient homes

(of a system or machine) achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted e�ort or expense.

COST-EFFECTIVE

Energy e�cient homes start with the design and construction methods. Learn what techniques can cut your long-term energy costs and how they a�ect the comfort level ofyour home.

Homebuyers today are just as apt to ask about the energy e�ciency of a house as they are about the number of bedrooms. Concerned with rising energy costs and the environmental impact their new dwelling unit may have on natural resources, e�cient designs and construction techniques are growing in popularity as buyers take a long-term view of their investment and the annual costs they will be paying.

Efficient homes

Many of the most well-known e�ciency features involve the mechanicals -high-e�ciency appliances, A/C units and hot water heaters, for example. But the way the building is constructed, the materials that are used and the orientation of the building in relation to the sun all have an impact on its e�ciency. Any energy-e�cient design is going to have insulation in the walls, ceiling and even the �oors. Insulation that is inserted between you and the external environment is going toa�ect the temperature inside the building. Insulation reduces heat loss in winter and limitsheat-gain in the summer, helping to keep the house cooler and not tax your A/C unit so much.

Windows are one of the biggest sources of heat loss and gain in a home. Single panes ofglass, for example, allow heat to transfer from outside of the home to inside very easily. It can lead to overly warm rooms in summer and get the A/C working overtime. E�cientwindows will be dual-paned or thicker glass and may even have a protective �lm to reduce heat transfer between the house and the outdoor environment. Ventilation is essential for letting hot air out and bringing cooler air in into the house. It's something our ancestors relied on heavily before A/C was invented. Louvered vents allow you to direct the cooled or warmer air where you need it to go. High windows that can be opened allow heat to escape. Simple steps like closing the windows and drawing the curtains against the sun's warmth and then opening them up at night when it has cooled down outside are no-cost ways to keep the house cool in summer. Likewise, leaving the curtains open in winter allows sunlight to enter the room and warm it up. Door and window seals prevent cold air from entering around your door and window frames. Even the smallest crack in the seal can a�ect the inside comfort of the home and force your heating and cooling system to work harder to do its job. The more the system has to work, the more you're going to be paying in energy bills. A truly energy-e�cient design will be oriented to maximise sun exposure to the north. This is where the sun is strongest so you'll want to capture solar in the winter by allowing it to come through the windows. You can avoid the stronger summer sun from heating up the inside of your home too much by adding eaves and pergolas to the exterior of the home. Drawing the curtains or blinds during the worst heat of the day.

Talk to your architect about what energy-saving techniques can be used and what additional devices are available to make your new home more e�cient.

Energy e�cient homes start with the design and construction methods. Learn what techniques can cut your long-term energy costs and how they a�ect the comfort level ofyour home.

Homebuyers today are just as apt to ask about the energy e�ciency of a house as they are about the number of bedrooms. Concerned with rising energy costs and the environmental impact their new dwelling unit may have on natural resources, e�cient designs and construction techniques are growing in popularity as buyers take a long-term view of their investment and the annual costs they will be paying.

Takes over Paris Auto Show with two global debuts

Jaguar and Land Rover reveals key models at Paris Auto Show with Jaguar XE and Land Rover Discovery Sport.New Ingenium family brings engine production back to the company’s manufacturing heartland.More than 2,300 jobs created and R36.5 billion invested as part of THE Company’s commitment to the UK.Jaguar Land Rover has invested R182 386 603 950.00 billion over the last �ve years and doubled the workforce.Land Rover launches its Barbour range and Jaguar unveils its Heritage ‘57 Collection, as part of the brands’ new lifestyle range.

LandRover Takes over Paris Auto Show with two global debuts

Jaguar and Land Rover reveals key models at Paris Auto Show with Jaguar XE and Land Rover Discovery Sport.New Ingenium family brings engine production back to the company’s manufacturing heartland.More than 2,300 jobs created and R36.5 billion invested as part of THE Company’s commitment to the UK.Jaguar Land Rover has invested R182 386 603 950.00 billion over the last �ve years and doubled the workforce.Land Rover launches its Barbour range and Jaguar unveils its Heritage ‘57 Collection, as part of the brands’ new lifestyle range.

Pretoria, 2 October 2014 - Reinforcing its commitment to product development and global expansion, Jaguar Land Rover, showcased its breakthrough Land Rover Discovery Sport and Jaguar XE models today at the Paris Auto Show.

Dr Ralf Speth, Chief Executive O�cer, said: “The Jaguar XE and the Land Rover Discovery Sport are at the very heart of the UK’s manufacturing renaissance.

“Jaguar Land Rover is delivering solid �nancial results and has good sales momentum globally. Our manufacturing plans around the world and product launch programmes are on track, as we deliver vehicles appealing to more customers than ever before.”

The all-new Jaguar XE is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s growth phase and is the �rst to use the high-tech Ingenium engine – a family of ultra-low-emission, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines from the new Engine Manufacturing Centre, in the West Midlands.

With the new Ingenium engine family powering the XE and future Jaguar and Land Rover products, the Engine Manufacturing Centre is the result of a R9 billion investment, creating 1,400 jobs. This new centre brings engine production back to the company’s manufacturing heartland.

Pretoria, 2 October 2014 - Reinforcing its commitment to product development and global expansion, Jaguar Land Rover, showcased its breakthrough Land Rover Discovery Sport and Jaguar XE models today at the Paris Auto Show.

Dr Ralf Speth, Chief Executive O�cer, said: “The Jaguar XE and the Land Rover Discovery Sport are at the very heart of the UK’s manufacturing renaissance.

“Jaguar Land Rover is delivering solid �nancial results and has good sales momentum globally. Our manufacturing plans around the world and product launch programmes are on track, as we deliver vehicles appealing to more customers than ever before.”

The all-new Jaguar XE is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s growth phase and is the �rst to use the high-tech Ingenium engine – a family of ultra-low-emission, four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines from the new Engine Manufacturing Centre, in the West Midlands.

With the new Ingenium engine family powering the XE and future Jaguar and Land Rover products, the Engine Manufacturing Centre is the result of a R9 billion investment, creating 1,400 jobs. This new centre brings engine production back to the company’s manufacturing heartland.

The introduction of the Land Rover Discovery Sport signi�es the �rst member of the new Discovery family, part of Jaguar Land Rover’s strategy to introduce 50 new products or updates in the next �ve years.

The new Discovery Sport will be built at the award-winning Halewood plant, Merseyside, following a multi-million rand investment to support the development of the new Discovery family. This is part of the R63.8 – R67 billion Jaguar Land Rover will invest this year into on-going global capital projects and product creation.

Land Rover showed o� its latest premium compact SUV in its all-new and striking metallic body colour, Phoenix Orange, which was showcased using Land Rover’s unique o�-road simulator and impressive rain curtain – a natural falling water feature.

Phil Popham, Group Marketing Director, said: “Both the Discovery Sport and XE are exciting developments for Jaguar Land Rover that demonstrate our commitment to continued investment in new models and innovation.

“The Discovery Sport and XE models are breakthrough vehicles for Jaguar Land Rover and explore new segments of the market as well as representing a step change in the customer base for both brands.”

In addition to the debut of the two new models, both brands unveiled their new luxury goods collections in Paris, adding to Jaguar Land Rover’s lifestyle range. Barbour for Land Rover will see two quintessentially British icons launch their �rst clothing collaboration, ready for Autumn Winter 2014.

Jaguar Heritage ’57 Collection, inspired by Jaguar’s 60th anniversary of the D-Type, features a range of branded goods linked to the winning No.3 vehicle driven by Ron Flockhart and Ivor Beub for the Ecurie Ecosse team. Signature items, including the Jaguar Heritage leather jacket and leather race holdall, have been crafted in England and are made from soft, supple Pittards leather.

Earlier this month Jaguar Land Rover announced a strong sales performance for August, retailing 30,249 vehicles, up 9% versus the same period last year. During the �rst eight months of the year Jaguar Land Rover has sold 304,854 vehicles, up 13%.

A CLASS ABOVE

Eden Meander, Knysna Road, GeorgePhone: 044 802 5400

Fax: 044 874 1618

CHRISTMASIDEAS FROM THE PANTRYSome things need no introductions - the become clear once you glanceat the eyes scintillating with warmth, trust and happiness.

Hence this year we shall not tell you stories about Santa who’s parked his reindeers on your roof; about snowflakes drifting from the sky;or the greatest joy of giving and sharing. We hope that this warm and cozy spirit reaches your hands, hearts and eyes with our every issue - and especially were our festive season is coming closer.

Sweet Surrender

CHOCOLATE CHIPICE CREAM WITH PISTACHIOSRecipe & photo: Dovile & Mantas

Serves 10

400ml heavy cream260g sweetened condensed milk

50g dark chocolate chips30g unsalted pistachios

360g simple chocolate cookies

Beat cream until stiff peaks form. Add condensedmilk and mix well. Add chocolate ships and roughlychopped pistachios. Mix again.

Line a rectangular dish with foil (it’s best to choosea size according to the size of the lined up cookies).Cover the whole bottom with cookies. Pour the icecream mixture on top. Top with cookies and presslightly. Cover with foil and freeze overnight.

It’s easier to slice ice cream in size of the cookies and to serve it immediately. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other nuts and dried fruit!

Sweet Surrender

CHOCOLATESUNFLOWER SEEDS

Make 16

200g hulled sunflower seeds1tsp butter

200g dark chocolate50g raisins

In a dry pan, toast the sunflower seeds.

Melt the chopped dark chocolate with butter in a heatproofbowl set over a pan of simmering water (do not let the bowltouch the water). Mix carefully, then add the raisins and toasted sunflower seeds. Mix well.

Use a tablespoon to shape 16 candies and put them on a tray lined with parchment. Let them cool, then put in the fridge to set completely.

Tasty gifts are usually with something sweet. Chocolate is everyone’sfavorite gift, but why not to jazz it up a bit by adding sunflower seeds.Luscious chocolate and earthy flavor seeds wil l guarantee some pleasant moments on Chrismans.

Sweet Surrender

BROWNIE, RICOTTA AND STRAWBERRY TRIFLE IN A JAR

Serve 6

Brownie:1 cup flour

1/2 tsp baking powder1/2 tsp baking soda

3/4 cup sugar1/2 tsp vanilla sugar

90 ml unsweetened cocoapowder

1 tsp instant coffee1/4 cup natural yogurt

Ricotta layer:250 g fresh soft ricotta50 g powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract200 ml heavy cream

juice of 1/2 lemon

Strawberry layer:300-400 g strawberries

1/4 cup sugar

Preheat the oven to 170°C.

For the brownie, sift and combine all dry ingredients.Dissolve coffee in hot water and add to the dry ingredients. Add oil, milk and yogurt. Stir to combine,pour into a 23cm spring form and bake for 30min.Leave to cool.

Whisk ricotta with sugar and vanilla extract. In anotherbowl, whisk cream until stiff peaks and add into the ricotta. Gradually add lemon juice to taste.

Combine mashed berries with sugar.

Cut the brownie into small pieces and divide among jars. Top with ricotta and strawberry layers. Put lids on and take the mess-free desserts straight to your picnic.

Experience in the structural engineering �eldcovers a very broad range, including residential,commercial and industrial projects. Our areas ofexpertise encompass reinforced concrete, steeland timber structure analysis, design and detailing

-Reinforced concrete structures.- Water retaining structures.- Civil infrastructure structures.- Structural assessment.- Structural masts assessments.- Timber structures- Structural remediation

To serve our clients needs we in-corporated an major civil engineer-ing and project managementexpertise for residential, industrialand commercial developments andconstruction.

- STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING- CIVIL ENGINEERING- PROJECT MANAGEMENT- PROCUREMENT- CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT- RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS- LOW COST HOUSINGS PROJECTS- COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENTS

E N G I N E E R I N G S O L U T I O N S

expert advisory

S U S T A I N A B L E S O L U T I O N S

We create innovative solutions for the sustainable inter-acting between people and the environment. We haddeveloped successful stakeholder engagementstrategies which consistently deliver on quality andcost against challenging projects time requirements.We make a sustainable investment by giving backto the communities in which we operate. Instructuring our work around people primarilyand our awerness of the environment, we ensuresustainable solutions.

S T R U C T U R A L E N G I N E E R I N G S O L U T I O N S

P R O V I D I N G T H E E N G I N E E R I N G S O L U T I O NY O U N E E D

Shama Consultants, a close company, were registeredin 2010 after providing a professional engineering seviceto the Garden Route and Western Cape since the latenineties.

Since the Shama Consultants eraned a reputation forsuperior projects outcomes based on a strong traditionof engineering excellence and innovative design.

This professionals at Shama maintains an integratedmanagement and communication network that supports business unit objectives by developing and

implementing strategies, optimizing people resources, championing technology tools and bringing consistency across operations while assuring a high level of certainty for safety, performance, quality cost and schedule.

expert advisory

frominception tocompletion

S H A M A H E B R E W S T R A N S L . “ T O H E A R A N D L I S T E N ; T O A C T I N O B E D I E N C E ”

O U R S T R E N G T H

O U R T E C H N O L O G Y

R E S I D E N T I A L P R O J E C T S

O U R A P P R O A C H

CO N T A C T U S You can also be assured of our high integrity with professional and focused approach.

shamaconsultants@gmail.com

Tel: 084 201 7777

PO Box 9371 GEORGE 6530

Our strength lies in the e�ective leadership of multidisci-plinary teams. Our personals goals, which are centeredon the development and empowerment of team mem-bers, and e�ective communication has resulted in a highlevel of collaboration within projects teams promotingbest outcomes.Our members are professional engineers (PrEng) with post graduate quali�cations (M.Eng) in Projects Manage- ment. Shama maintains an e�ective ability to plan, execute and complete projects by applying well developed systems and programs driven by a philosophy of early construction involvement. We combine the consulting process with deep technical expertise to deliver on ourreputation of excellence.

Parametric 3D component design software, �nite element analysis

We also successfully implementedand completed a comprehensivecross section of residential buildings,often overcoming the challenge ofextremely di�cult site conditionsat the following locations:

- Thesen Island, Knysna- The Pezula Golf Estate, Knysna- Simola Golf Estate, Knysna- Oubaai Golf Estate, George- The Crossways Farm Village, PE

Our business approach isfocused on sustainability andinnovative thinking, seeking out the mostappropriate and sustainable solutions.Whatever the project undertaking, we aimto apply our insight, innovation and pro-fessionalism to every aspect of the opera-tion - from its inception to its successful completion.The client can be ensured that they willenjoy hands-on and personal attentionand that the high standards set by youand your company will be maintained.We strive to remain technologically on thecutting edge and with international experi-ence we can o�er clients the very latest,most cost e�ective and accurate designsolution available.

music festivalgwaing riverAnnual Music Festival taking place at the Gwaing River. This year it will be from the 15th – 16th November.

Please be aware that the music plays continuously over the 2 days and we can usually hear it up to the hotel.

Should you have any queries you are welcome to give Seth a call on 079 756 9307.

LOUDNOISES

Join the Oubaai Resort & Spain a 4.8km fun walk around the estate

Date:

Time:

Venue:

Price:

3 November 2014

Registration: 17h30

Walk Starts: 18h00

Registration at the Amphitheatre

(outside Waterside Bar & Grill)

R60 per person

Music, boerewors rolls and beverages available afterwardsas well as entertainment for kids. The �rst 100 applicantswill get a free T-Shirt and medals for all

O U B A A I

music festival

October 2014, 08:08 - 14:00 at Kraaibosch Estate on N22014

Celebrate Life Fun Walk @ Oubaai4.8km fun walk around the estateon 3 November 2014.

2014 Annual Oubaai HOA Golf Day17 Desember 2014Shotgun Start at 13h00

Free round of golf for HOA members and their guests

To book a fourball, please mail info@oubaaihoa.co.za

17

17

October 2014, 08:08 - 14:00 at Kraaibosch Estate on N2

Tai Chi

4Give the Gift of Donate Blood

Studio 3, Hyatt Regency Oubaai11h00 UNTILL 15h00