This new development in the heart of Ferndale is an unusual addition to TUHF’s stable in many ways. The project’s outcome was not rental housing, but townhouses for resale. The finishes are decidedly high-end. Yet 300 on York is also a beautiful demonstration of how TUHF’s expansion to offer finance outside the inner-city supports its mission to create massive change in South Africa’s urban and suburban landscapes, one project at a time.
Urban densification with the family in mind
Designed with young professionals and young families in mind – people looking for homes that meet their changing needs while reducing their commute – 300 on York stands on the site of a large family house in the heart of the tree-lined suburb of Ferndale in Randburg.
The project’s developer, Manoj Mathew, explains: “The inspiration behind 300 on York came from a desire to use available urban space in a smarter way, to create homes that add real value to both the people who live in them and the communities around them. I saw a growing need for safe, secure, and affordable housing, especially for young professionals and new families who want to live closer to where they work and spend their time.”
This thinking aligns perfectly with TUHF’s decision to offer finance in suburban areas outside the inner cities. Smarter use of large, suburban erfs that are well located near schools, workplaces, transport corridors and diverse conveniences stimulates urban densification, economic activity and inclusivity – bringing people into the cities from the peripheries.
For Manoj, and for TUHF, Ferndale was a natural choice. The suburb is centrally located, with easy access to major business hubs like the Sandton and Randburg CBDs, as well as transport routes. “What really stood out to me was the area’s potential,” Manoj says. “There is clear movement toward growth and renewal, with many local businesses upgrading and modernising. That gave me confidence to invest here.”
The suburb consists largely of older, free-standing homes on sizeable plots of land, making 300 on York a prime opportunity aligned with TUHF’s expansion strategy. Siya Jele, Portfolio Manager at TUHF, says: “Principally, there were three things that gave us the confidence to invest in this project. We were impressed with Manoj as an investor and entrepreneur, with his vision for 300 on York and with the location he had selected for this project. The project was extremely well designed and well proportioned, with awesome finishes.”
Ferndale is also part of Johannesburg’s long-term development strategy. “Through 300 on York, we wanted to be part of that progress by offering homes that are not only well-designed and secure, but also help uplift the neighbourhood,” says Manoj. “We wanted these homes to be more than just a place to live. We wanted them to be comfortable, low-maintenance spaces that strike that balance between work and home, and to make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.”
The homes that now stand at 300 on York deliver this vision through smart design, quality materials, and a team that shared the same heart for the project. Walking through the show unit, it is clear that every choice – from the layout to the finishes – was made with care and a deep understanding of how people live. Thoughtful features like gas stove tops and dedicated office nooks align with the modern ways people live and work.
TUHF’s unique investment in its clients’ success – not only financially but through personal, hands-on support – remains the cornerstone of its approach. “TUHF believed in me and my vision from the start,” Manoj says. “They offered guidance, encouragement, and the kind of support that feels more like a partnership than a transaction. What stood out most was their flexibility and willingness to adapt as the project evolved.”
This holds true to TUHF’s commitment to ensuring clients can grow their property portfolios and sustainable businesses. Though 300 on York isn’t intended to become a rental housing business, it meets all the criteria for a TUHF project under its expansion strategy.
Manoj says: “Their support isn’t just about business; it’s about shared growth. They invest in you through training, advice, and trust, which builds lasting loyalty and the foundation for future success.”
Siya describes Manoj as an extremely knowledgeable person. “He is very meticulous in his understanding of property development processes, and his house was in order when he came to us for funding. These are some of the traits we look for in TUHF entrepreneurs.”
At the time of writing, 80% of the townhouses that make up 300 on York had been sold. There has been strong interest from buyers and great retention of tenants, indicating that the densification of this erf has led to a property development the community truly values.
“I’m most proud that we stayed true to our vision and delivered something meaningful, a quality development that people are proud to call home,” Manoj says. “The journey had its challenges, but with faith guiding my steps and a clear purpose, we made it happen. It’s a blessing to be able to create something that truly adds value to our community.”
To aspiring property entrepreneurs, Manoj offers this advice: “Ultimately, success in property development is about being proactive, disciplined, and committed to continuous improvement. With the right mindset and support, your project has every chance of being both profitable and high-quality.”
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