Not everyone is moving to the coast – many home buyers, including a large number of young, first-time buyers, are finding their ideal lifestyle in a variety of appealing inland hamlets around the country, says Pam Golding Properties.
Hoedspruit, Limpopo
Known as the gateway to Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit offers serene, scenic living. With new developments, a soon-to-open state-of-the-art hospital, and the potential for international airport status, the town appeals to those escaping urban life. Prices start at R1.1 million for sectional titles and R2.4 million for homes in gated estates.
New residential developments, including estates – many off-the-grid - coupled with numerous lifestyle attractions are drawing new residents to the increasingly popular and scenic town of Hoedspruit in Limpopo.
Entry level prices start at around R1.1 million for sectional title units, full title complex living from R2.4 million, and homes in secure, gated estates from R2.4 million, while three-bedroom homes in wildlife estates range from R3.5 million.
According to Lightstone statistics, freehold homes in estates enjoy a price premium over freehold homes outside estates. For example, during the past 12 months to April 2024, 52 freehold homes located in estates were sold (repeat sales) at an average price of R3.41 million compared to nine freehold homes outside estates which sold at an average price of R2.07 million.
Malmesbury, Western Cape
Malmesbury, with improved road access to Cape Town, sees increased home demand due to good schools, a new mall, and an upcoming private hospital. Prices start at R1.1 million for a two-bedroom flat, with a new gated development, De Zaailand Estate, launching soon.
According to Pam Golding, due to the growing demand for homes, the entry-level price is currently R1.1 million for a two-bedroom flat with garage, and R1.6 million for a two-bedroom townhouse.
Set to launch later this year is De Zaailand Estate, a new plot and plan, gated residential development, comprising 83 three-bedroom, double garage units starting at R2.5 million
Springbok, Northern Cape
Springbok, the largest town in Namaqualand, attracts buyers from Gauteng, Cape Town, and nearby mining towns. The town's appeal lies in its natural beauty and mining job opportunities, with three-bedroom homes priced between R1.7 million and R2 million.
Home buyers are mostly from Gauteng, Cape Town and mining towns such as Kathu, with relocation for work at the Gamsberg zinc mine in Aggeneys, about an hour from Springbok, being a key incentive to purchase property here, the property specialist said.
Three-bedroom, two-bathroom family homes are most in demand, priced between R1.7 million and R2 million, as well as farms in the R1.8 million to R3.5 million price range.
Underberg, KwaZulu-Nata
Underberg draws young families and retirees, with freehold homes and smallholdings ranging from R1 million to R2 million. The area benefits from remote work opportunities and excellent schools, offering a mix of farming and tourism lifestyles.
Purchasers in this area emanate mainly from Gauteng and the KwaZulu-Natal coast, with a few who have returned from the Western Cape.
Retirees move here for about 10-15 years, then relocate to be nearer their families or more centrally situated, while young families want their children to enjoy the country lifestyle and find great value for money in the R1 million to R2 million price bracket, which can acquire freehold homes or smallholdings.
They can even purchase a two-bedroom, sectional title unit for R795 000, with freestanding homes starting from around R1.3 million. More mature buyers tend to buy in gated or lifestyle estates.
KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
Regions like Howick, Hilton, and Nottingham Road attract diverse buyers seeking a tranquil lifestyle with access to amenities and outdoor activities. Popular price ranges vary, with gated estates and sectional title homes in high demand.
Howick is favoured among a large contingent of retirees, with home buyers moving there from all over South Africa as well as globally, including expats looking to return here or to purchase a property for their parents. The popular price range is from R1.2 million to R1.5 million.
Nottingham Road, en route to the Drakensberg on the Midlands Meander, draws buyers mainly from Johannesburg, the Free State and Durban wanting to escape city life - especially for their children, or to retire to.
The most popular price for freehold and sectional title homes and lifestyle properties is R3 million and vacant residential land between R1 million and R2 million.
Tzaneen, Limpopo
Tzaneen, nestled at the foot of the Northern Drakensberg, appeals to first-time buyers due to its affordability and lush environment.
Property prices range from R1.5 million to R2.5 million, with popular schools and natural attractions enhancing its appeal.
These inland hamlets provide a blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and modern amenities, making them desirable alternatives to coastal living.
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