Your personal paradise: how to overcome location challenges

In real estate, the old-time saying “location, location, location” rings true. But the place you put down roots won’t always be in a desirable neighbourhood.

Of course, an idyllic backdrop for your home isn’t always possible. Perhaps you bought the best home within your budget, inherited a property, or watched the area change over time. It happens! But there’s plenty you can do to overcome location challenges and make your home a better place to live. Whether you’re in a bustling city or the quiet countryside, you can improve your quality of life whatever the challenge.

Size: maximise your home’s space

• Switch to convertible furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as sofa beds, storage ottomans, or expandable tables.
  
  
• Get the most from vertical space by investing in tall shelving to free up floor space.
  
  
• Decluttering regularly will keep your space tidy and organised and also make it feel larger.
  
  
• Define specific zones for activities using area rugs, furniture arrangement, or room dividers.
  

View: overcome uninspiring sceneries

If you’re not blessed with a stunning urban skyline, sea views, or a lush forest, there’s still a lot you can do.

• Plant outdoor greenery or set up an indoor planter with gorgeous flowering shrubs.
  
  
• Use stained glass or a window film for a decorative external view.
  
  
• Opt for sheer curtains that will let in soft, natural light while camouflaging a sad external sight.
  
  
• Place mirrors near your window to reflect the beauty of your indoor space and distract from an outside view.
  

Noise: find calm in a loud neighbourhood

You value peace and quiet. Sometimes it’s more difficult to achieve if you live on a busy street, have a noisy neighbour, or have an industrial business in the vicinity.

• Fix any holes or cracks in walls that can let in sound.
  
  
• Invest in wall panels or acoustic panels to reduce or absorb sound from the outdoors.
  
  
• Switch to thicker rugs, heavy curtains, and solid doors to muffle sounds. You can even rearrange your existing furniture to create a better barrier.
  
  
• Buy a white noise machine that can mask external noise for a more serene environment. 

Security: boost your home’s safety

Crime can strike in any neighbourhood. However, if you feel unsafe in yours, some changes at home can make you feel at ease.

• Install security cameras and motion detectors at entrances and vulnerable points.
  
  
• Ensure all entry points are well-lit, making the space less appealing to potential intruders.
  
  
• Upgrade and regularly maintain your fencing to prevent any holes or dents from creating vulnerable spots in your protection.
  
  
• Keep foliage well trimmed to prevent hiding spots for intruders and also ensure you have a clear eye-line of your property.

Smell: block out outdoor odours

Persistent odours from outdoor traffic and local businesses and factories can impact your home’s ambience. There are ways to keep them at bay:

• Investing in a good air purifier with activated carbon filters can help eliminate odours.
  
  
• Use essential oil diffusers, natural potpourri, or burn incense sticks to enhance your indoor aroma.
  
  
• Add houseplants that can filter out common volatile organic compounds from your indoor air, improving its quality in the process.
  

Amenities: bridge the gap at home

Not every location boasts an array of conveniences, but savvy homeowners know how to craft a lifestyle that thrives, even when amenities aren't right at the doorstep.

• Look for DIY solutions. Converting your space into a workout area, reading nook, or investing in a pizza oven can overcome the need for a local gym, library, or takeaway.
  
  
• Connect with neighbours and local community groups to share resources or create communal spaces.
  

Harsh weather: adapt to your area’s conditions

Because of climate change, South Africans can expect extreme weather to become a reality. Some parts are more vulnerable to sunny weather, rain, or drought, so homeowners should make smart changes. 

• Upgrade the insulation in walls, floors, and ceilings to combat extreme temperatures.
  
  
• Seal gaps in doors and windows to keep out drafts.
  
  
• Put up external shading such as a patio cover to protect against rain and searing hot weather.
  
  
• Add a rain-barrel system to reduce the load on your drainage system and store water for times of drought.
  
  
• Invest in heaters or air conditioners. For an energy-efficient solution, use heavy curtains for colder conditions and solar shield blinds in warmer areas.
  

Sidestep location challenges from the start

While most location challenges can be addressed with simple solutions, the best option is to choose wisely from the outset. With Seeff's expert guidance, you can buy or rent a home that not only has all the features you need, but a great location that helps you live your best life. Contact your local Seeff branch to find a home that’s an asset and not an obstacle to quality living.