uMhlanga has emerged as a prime real estate destination in KwaZulu-Natal, attracting buyers from across South Africa and beyond.
According to Brett Botsis, director for Seeff uMhlanga, the local property market has not only remained resilient but has also outperformed pre-pandemic levels.
The areas iconic landmarks, such as its pier and lighthouse, continue to draw visitors, making it a popular destination for both tourists and investors, and offers a mix of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and holiday apartments to modern homes and beachfront villas.
Botsis noted that uMhlanga’s commercial sector is thriving, featuring a variety of business hubs and retail outlets, including one of the largest shopping centres in the country.
Investors are capitalizing on opportunities, with growing interest from both local and international buyers, particularly those from Johannesburg and overseas.
Recent property data highlights that sales volumes have significantly exceeded pre-pandemic figures, largely driven by sectional title transactions, which account for nearly 80% of all sales.
From October 2023 to September 2024, over 1,000 property transactions were recorded in uMhlanga, with a total value exceeding R2.85 billion.
Sales above R5 million are common, especially in prestigious estates like Hawaan Forest and Izinga, with apartments in prime complexes also fetching high prices.
Freehold houses in uMhlanga average around R4.4 million, while those in gated estates command around R8.6 million. Sectional titles typically range between R2 million and R5 million.
The median house price has increased by about 14% since the pandemic and by 45% over the past decade. Younger buyers, particularly those under 50, make up a substantial portion of the market.
Botsis is optimistic about the area’s future, crediting improvements in service delivery by local authorities for restoring confidence in the market.
uMhlanga is increasingly becoming a second-home hotspot, with easy access via King Shaka International Airport. Luxury apartments, particularly in developments like the Pearls of Umhlanga, are in high demand, with penthouses priced as high as R39.5 million.
There are also homes in exclusive estates listed for between R10 million and R25 million.
For those looking to invest in rental properties, uMhlanga offers attractive returns, said Botsis. Rental rates for high-end apartments range from R22,000 to R70,000 per month.
According to rental specialist Alwene Els, demand is particularly strong among professionals relocating from Johannesburg, especially for properties with dedicated office spaces and pet-friendly options.
