Comparing property prices - What can you buy for your R4 million rand in Paris, New York, or London?

When buying any real estate, location plays a crucial role in determining the size and value of a property. While there's no denying Johannesburg has a long way to go in matching infrastructure, we explore the stark differences in the housing market by comparing what you can get for R4 million in four iconic cities: Paris, New York, London, and Johannesburg. 

While the price tag may be the same, the homes in Johannesburg offer a surprising amount of space and grandeur, highlighting the unique affordability and value compared to their international counterparts. 
 

£140,000 (R3,6 million) - 1 Bedroom Apartment in Grove Park, London 

 

Located in one of the quieter London suburbs is a typical council home setup one often expects to find in the UK. While homes like this are becoming increasingly popular in Johannesburg townhouses and sectional title setups, they are sold here at a fraction of the price.

Roughly costing R3.9 million, this recently refurbished property boasts modern upgrades, including newly laid carpeting and a pristine shower room. However, it is more of a bachelor's apartment than a spacious family home in Bryanston. The interior features a large lounge with access to the communal garden, a kitchen connected to the lounge by double doors, and a single bedroom with built-in wardrobes and an ensuite shower room.

See the complete listing: https://shorturl.at/gjG49

$215,000 (R4,09 million) - 1 Bedroom Apartment in The Bronx, New York City, NY

New York City is separated into five well-known boroughs of Manhattan Island, Statton Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. Midtown Manhattan is perhaps one of the most sought-after stretches of real estate in the world, with tiny studio apartments costing anywhere between $600,000 to $1 million. That being said, finding a reasonably sized home under R4 million in the city that never sleeps is near impossible. To find one, you'll need to cross the Hudson Bridge and scour the neighbourhoods of Brooklyn or The Bronx.

Located on Riverdale Ave in the Bronx is a single-bedroom co-op apartment for roughly R4.2 million. While some amenities, like the bathroom and living room, are communally shared with other tenants, the space does offer a reasonably sized bedroom and kitchenette.

See the complete listing: https://shorturl.at/cwGOV

€199,000 - (R4.4 million) 1 room apartment in Cardinet, Paris

There's a reason Paris is known as one of the most expensive cities to live in. Attempting to find an apartment near the same size as London or New York means adding an extra R2 million to your budget.

That being said, keeping within the R4 million range will afford you this single-roomed apartment in the city's heart and close to the famous Batignolles covered market. While transportation from key metro points offers access anywhere in the city, one must trade it off for this seemingly cramped space offering nothing more than a less-than-impressive view.

See complete listing: https://shorturl.at/gjG49

R3,999,999 - 4 Bedroom House For Sale in Hurlingham, Johannesburg

Contrast what you've seen above with this lavish home in one of the most sought-after, upmarket suburbs in Johannesburg. Step into the spacious reception area, flowing seamlessly onto a covered patio, garden, and inviting pool. The modern eat-in kitchen and scullery, along with the dining room and study, provide ample space for daily activities. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms (one en-suite) on the main level, privacy and convenience are ensured.

A modern, family home fully equipped with the latest tech, a sprawling garden, and access to local amenities of the highest quality. Yes, you'll probably have to drive there rather than using the metro, but at least you have access to three garages where you don't have to pay for daily parking or get fined $60 for parking on a street-sweeping day.

See listing: https://shorturl.at/oEW08

South Africa may have a lot of problems, but one thing we often neglect is just how much we take for granted living here. While living abroad presents advantages, we may never experience the standard of living we are used to. Realising in many instances, the grass isn't always greener on the other side.

Visit our website https://www.homesofdistinction.co.za/agents/ or pop by our offices for a chat. Our friendly property practitioners are always available to assist in this regard.

Homes of Distinction CC holds a Fidelity Fund Certificate issued by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority.