Andries Vermaak

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Andries Vermaak

Director and Principal. Sales, Rentals, Complex Management. MSc, PhD, PPRE, NQF5. Comrades runner.

24/09/2026

Happy Heritage Day!

21/09/2026

I walk slowly, but I never walk backward - Abraham Lincoln

18/09/2026

If you have pets, it is worth knowing which common garden plants can be harmful if eaten. Here are five plants found in many South African gardens that pet owners should be aware of.

𝗖𝘆𝗰𝗮𝗱𝘀
Cycads can be highly toxic to pets if eaten, particularly the seeds. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and potentially serious liver damage. Keep fallen seeds away from pets and avoid planting cycads where animals can easily access them.

𝗢𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿
Oleander is often used as a flowering shrub or hedge because it is hardy and requires relatively little maintenance. However, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. It can affect the digestive system and heart.

𝗟𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗮 (𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗿𝘆)
While it attracts butterflies and adds plenty of colour, eating the plant can cause problems for pets, including vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and, in more serious cases, liver problems. Regularly remove fallen leaves and berries if your pets have access to the garden.

𝗔𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝗟𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀
Particularly recognisable for their white, funnel-shaped flowers, arum lilies contain compounds that can cause intense irritation of the mouth and throat when chewed, potentially resulting in drooling, swelling and difficulty swallowing.

𝗖𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗮
Clivia is indigenous to southern Africa and is commonly grown in shady areas. Its leaves and roots can be harmful if eaten and may cause vomiting, diarrhoea and other digestive problems.

If you suspect your pet has eaten a potentially toxic plant, contact your veterinarian promptly and, where possible, identify the plant involved.

A pet-friendly garden starts with knowing what is growing in it

14/09/2026

The world is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper. - Eden Phillpotts

11/09/2026

The kitchen is often one of the busiest rooms in the home, so a little organisation can make everyday cooking and cleaning feel much easier.

You don't need a complete kitchen makeover. A few thoughtful changes to how you use your space can make a surprising difference.

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗞𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗭𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀
Think about how you move through your kitchen and group items according to how you use them. Keep knives and chopping boards close to your main preparation area. Store spices, oils and cooking utensils within easy reach of the stove, and keep everyday dishes and glasses somewhere convenient for serving and unloading the dishwasher. The goal is simple: keep the things you use together, where you naturally need them.

𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗽𝘀
A clear work surface makes preparing meals much easier. Keep frequently used appliances such as your kettle or toaster accessible, but consider storing seldom-used appliances in a cupboard. You'll gain valuable preparation space while giving the kitchen a cleaner, calmer appearance.

𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲
Don't overlook the backs of cupboard doors, walls and the space inside tall cupboards. Simple racks, hooks and organisers can provide useful storage for spices, chopping boards, foil and other smaller items without taking up valuable countertop space.

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗮 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗽 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
Keep your most frequently used cooking utensils close to where you prepare or cook food. A simple container for spatulas, wooden spoons and whisks can be both practical and attractive, saving you from constantly opening drawers while you're cooking.

𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗺
The most efficient kitchen is one that follows your routine. Keep pots and pans near the stove, everyday crockery somewhere convenient for serving, and cleaning supplies close to the sink or dishwasher. Take a few minutes to observe how you actually use your kitchen — then organise it around that.

A well-organised kitchen doesn't just look better. It makes everyday life a little easier, one meal at a time.

11/09/2026

Talk To Us!

07/09/2026

Happiness often sneaks in through a door your didn't know you left open. - John Barrymore

04/09/2026

A welcoming guestroom is about more than providing a place to sleep. It is about creating a comfortable space where visitors feel relaxed, cared for and truly at home.

With a few thoughtful touches, an ordinary spare room can become a warm and inviting retreat.

𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁
The bed is the heart of any guestroom. Choose quality linen and add an extra blanket or throw so guests can adjust their comfort.

𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀
Guests appreciate having room to unpack and settle in. Clear some cupboard space, provide empty hangers and add a luggage rack so suitcases can be kept off the floor. A bedside table and reading lamp are simple additions that make a big difference.

𝗔𝗱𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀
Small details can make guests feel especially welcome. A carafe of fresh water, a glass, Wi-Fi details and a small basket with useful toiletries show thoughtfulness and consideration.

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to temperature. Provide options such as an extra blanket in winter or a fan during warmer months so guests can make themselves comfortable.

𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀
A good magazine or fresh flowers can add warmth and personality to the room. Keep the décor calm, clean and uncluttered to create a relaxing atmosphere.

A well-prepared guestroom is a simple way to make visitors feel valued and ensure their stay is memorable for all the right reasons.

31/08/2026

If your ship doesn't come in, swim out to it. - Jonathan Winters

28/08/2026

Mosquitoes can quickly turn a relaxing evening at home into an annoyance. While warmer weather and rainfall can increase mosquito activity, a few simple changes can help reduce their presence around your home.

Here are some practical ways to keep them under control:

𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗼-𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀
Herbs and plants with strong scents, such as citronella, lavender, rosemary and basil, can help discourage mosquitoes around outdoor areas. Place pots near entrances, patios and entertainment areas.

𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿
Mosquitoes need very little water to breed. Check your garden regularly for items that collect water, such as buckets, plant saucers, hosepipes and blocked gutters.

𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘀
Fine mesh screens on windows and doors create a simple barrier that helps keep mosquitoes and other insects outside where they belong. Check regularly for holes or damage.

𝗧𝗿𝘆 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀
Citronella, eucalyptus and peppermint scents may help make areas less attractive to mosquitoes. Use diffusers or sprays as an additional measure, rather than relying on them as the only solution.

𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀
Mosquitoes are weak fliers, and moving air can make it harder for them to land. A fan on a patio or entertainment area can make outdoor spaces more comfortable.

A few preventative steps can make a big difference. By reducing breeding areas and creating barriers around your home, you can enjoy your indoor and outdoor spaces with fewer unwanted visitors.

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https://2ndstoreyproperty.co.za/

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