The massive shift in investor behaviour over the past few years and the sudden rise in interest rates have resulted in some interesting property trends. No doubt, the pandemic’s legacy has impacted decision-making in terms of location and lifestyle, with coastal properties more in demand than ever before.
“The KZN South Coast has taken some time in gaining investor attention, but the recent infrastructural investments, estate developments, and the popularity of this laid-back lifestyle have seen a rise in property demand,” commented Sam Wenger, Development Director for Serenity Hills, an eco-focused lifestyle estate located between Uvongo and Margate. “There are certainly a few property trends that we’ve noticed which we believe will continue to attract buyers to the KZN South Coast.”
Wenger, alongside local agents Barbara Jackson, Non-principal Property Practitioner of Seeff Hibiscus Coast, Danie Barnard, Property Practitioner of RE/MAX Coast and Country, and Trudie Koekemoer, Property Practitioner at KW Edge have shared their views on why the KZN South Coast is seeing a rise in demand.
1. Security
“Security is still one of the most important factors when looking at properties, with high-security estates like Serenity Hills, particularly in demand,” explained Wenger. “Buyers are looking for state-of-the-art biometric access control and 24-hour security so that they can exercise and live outdoors with peace of mind.”
2. High value
“Buyers are looking for value for their money which means that well-priced properties with good-quality finishes and sustainable aspects are now in high demand,” said Wenger. “With the recent announcement that The South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has decided to keep the repurchase rate at 8.25% per year, and with inflation easing to 5.4% in June, this is a good time to buy.”
3. Top-class facilities
Trudie Koekemoer, Property Practitioner at KW Edge said the work-life balance plays a very important part for any working individual, making on-site facilities important: “People are struggling with hectic schedules and Serenity Hills offers a range of outdoor facilities including yoga spots, fishing, tennis, nature trails, and more that let you recharge and just be the best version of yourself.”
4. Healthcare facilities
She added that healthcare facilities are also an important factor, particularly for retirees to consider. “I truly appreciate the fact that there’s a healthcare facility with on-site frail care, as well as nearby private hospitals for residents of all ages. Combined with world-class security with first-world influence and you have an absolute winner!”
5. Connectivity
Koekemoer added that the rise in the work-from-home and remote working models has made internet connectivity a must for home investors: “The access to fibre and connectivity is a priority as more and more people work partially or full-time from home. Because buyers have this freedom to work from home, they’re also looking to invest in a luxury home, such as Serenity Hills, they can flee the cold, enjoy the fantastic weather on the coast and be more productive than ever.”
6. Laidback living
Barbara Jackson, Non-principal Property Practitioner of Seeff Hibiscus Coast said that the trend of quieter living has also attracted more people to the KZN South Coast: “People are wanting to get away from the busy city centres and coastal areas such as the North Coast, and move to areas where there is less noise and traffic so they can enjoy a quieter life, while still accessing all the modern-day amenities.”
7. Accessible and unique
Danie Barnard, Property Practitioner at of RE/MAX Coast and Country says that people are looking for estates that offer high-quality facilities in close proximity to their homes: “In my 47 years in this industry, having seen many developments, I’ve never seen anything as unique as Serenity Hills – there simply is no way that you could ever be bored living here with 25 on-site facilities.”
8. Hassle-free living
Barnard said the majority of purchasers in the area are hoping to forego the effort, time and huge cost which goes with maintaining large homes and gardens: “The clever design of the homes at Serenity Hills makes for exactly that – easy and manageable living! Here you can have your cake and eat it.”
9. Sustainability
Finally, Wenger said that climate change and environmental consciousness have seen more people looking for properties with sustainable aspects such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. “Overall, since Covid-19, buyers appreciate the outdoors more than ever, with all-year-round warm weather and access to all sorts of outdoor amenities and nature-based resources high on the priority list.”
Serenity Hills is an exquisite, subtropical paradise with Indian Ocean views set amid lush coastal forests and rolling hills. This pet-friendly estate boasts top-class facilities such as The Clubhouse with swimming pools, the Infinity Bar, and The Bistro. Serenity Hills’ partnership with @home and Weber further underscores the developers’ commitment to excellence in design.
Koekemoer explained that, with Serenity Hills being a new development, there are no transfer duties payable. To find out more and book a viewing at Serenity Hills, visit www.serenityhills.co.za. For regular updates, follow @serenityhillsecoestate on Facebook and Instagram.
