Christine Sonnekus
About the Project:
I am thrilled (and slightly terrified) to submit my entry for the Innovation Competition. My journey started with a simple question for an office space to run my brokerage, Efficient Wealth. Little did I know, it would turn into a full-scale renovation project and a lesson in entrepreneurship, all rolled into one. Here’s how it…
I am thrilled (and slightly terrified) to submit my entry for the Innovation Competition. My journey started with a simple question for an office space to run my brokerage, Efficient Wealth. Little did I know, it would turn into a full-scale renovation project and a lesson in entrepreneurship, all rolled into one. Here’s how it all unfolded…
Picture this: I’m on the hunt for the perfect office, and instead of finding a modest little space, I stumble upon a sprawling house that could put Downton Abbey to shame. It had potential written all over it, but also a glaring “Needs Major Renovation” sign that only an optimist (or a madman) could see as a challenge.
Being the 2023 optimist, I envisioned this space not just as a place to manage portfolios, but as a dual-purpose gem. Why not transform it into a guesthouse too? After all, who wouldn’t want to stay somewhere they could enjoy a beautiful sea view and have their own private haven?
In just five months – armed with determination, a talented team ruled by my husband, and probably too much caffeine – we revamped the entire property. The result? Five luxurious, self-contained guest units, each offering the privacy and scenic views that vacationers dream of. And, of course, a sleek office space for Efficient Wealth, where deals are made with a backdrop of ocean waves.
This project wasn’t just about real estate; it was about blending business with hospitality, all while proving that with enough vision (and a bit of insanity), you can turn a fixer-upper into a profitable masterpiece.
So here I am, presenting this innovative venture – a space where business meets leisure, where guests can enjoy top-notch accommodation and I can continue to grow my brokerage. It’s been a wild ride, but one that’s been incredibly rewarding.
Thank you for considering my entry. I look forward to sharing more about how this project came to life and the creative (and sometimes comical) hurdles we overcame.
Budget Breakdown:
Windows & doors (Salt and Pepper unit)
25000
|
Ceilings (Salt and Pepper unit)
10000
|
Stoep & braai (Salt and Pepper unit)
35000
|
Gas geyser in bathroom (Salt and Pepper unit)
8000
|
Bathroom (Salt and Pepper unit)
18000
|
Kitchen shelves & plumbing (Salt and Pepper unit)
5000
|
Paint (Salt and Pepper unit)
5000
|
Garden & turf
10000
|
Floors: Wood & Epoxy (main house)
30000
|
Solar, electrical work & lighting (main house)
260000
|
Paint (main house)
15000
|
Kitchen (main house)
9000
|
Plumbing: includes showers, basins and toilets (main house)
50000
|
Additional building costs (main house)
15000
|
All materials for Die Hout Huis (including paneling, plumbing, electrical work etc.)
150000
|
645000 |
Contractors:
We worked with 8 Mile construction on this project.
|
0 |
Grand Total R645000 |