For the past few years, semigration has emerged as a dominant trend in the South African property market, with no signs of slowing down. With lifestyle a priority, destinations like the KZN’s mid-South Coast are becoming in demand, particularly with couples looking for a retirement – or semi-retirement – property. But it’s important to consider three key factors before settling on the ideal ‘forever home’.
“In previous years, the reason to semigrate from one province to the next was primarily for work opportunities. More recently, there has been a major shift and emphasis on lifestyle,” explained Jonathan Acutt, Managing Director of Acutts Real Estate. “For those wishing to retire, or more often semi-retire, the idea of moving to the coast as a lifestyle choice has become more predominant – especially as younger families seek opportunities overseas. People looking to retire no longer feel the need to remain in the town where their family grew up, and are rather looking to the coastline for a more laidback lifestyle.”
Acutt said there were three major considerations for those looking to semigrate to the coast:
1. Safety
“I believe that safety and security are high on the priority list,” he explained. “This is why I believe community scheme living, especially for retirees or semi-retirees, is becoming more popular. These come with safety features such as 24-hour security, perimeter fencing, CCTV cameras, and access control for complete peace of mind.”
2. Social activities
“Further to this, I believe there needs to be a strong focus on social activities and interactions with your neighbours and communities. The social distancing during the pandemic highlighted the value of social interaction and community engagements. That’s why it’s worth considering the availability of a community centre and social or sporting activities such as game nights, organised hikes, environmental groups, and markets. Estates that emphasise sustainable communities – where the communities are putting more in than they’re taking out – is important.”
3. Self-sustainability and sustainability
“In a world where the supply of basic services, such as electricity and water, is an issue, I also see a great emphasis on communities that are sustainable and self-providing. Retirees should look for elements like solar power, water storage and designs that maximise natural lighting and breezes. Beyond this, sustainable living, in itself, is a must. Living within a natural environment, supporting the natural environment, is a simply a better, healthier way to live.”
Acutt said the trend of semigration to the KZN North Coast over the past two decades is a good indication of what’s in store for the KZN South Coast.
“KZN is the second largest population in the country after the Western Cape which, in itself, is indicative of the ongoing semigration trend,” he said. “I foresee consistent growth in semi-retired people seeking a coastal lifestyle in developments such as Renishaw Hills. With state-of-the-art security, an incredible community lifestyle and sustainable features throughout, this mature lifestyle village is perfectly positioned to meet the needs of these types of buyers.”
Renishaw Hills, located in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast, is a quality coastal estate that offers retirees value for money without sacrificing on lifestyle. Renishaw Hills also forms the first development within the 1 300-ha Renishaw Coastal Precinct, which is set to unfold into a five-phased, mixed-use precinct focusing on conservation and quality.
Renishaw Hills has just launched Phase 6, a series of high-end maisonettes boasting spectacular sea views and houses surrounded by coastal greenery. Start a new adventure by booking an in-person or virtual tour of phase 6 and other Renishaw Hills offerings. Email [email protected] or visit www.renishawhills.co.za
