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Two emerging property investment hotspots in the Western Cape

Staff Writer
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Attention has turned to the promising areas of Wellington and Malmesbury in the Cape Winelands, which offer a blend of affordability, natural beauty, and growth potential.

John Herbst, CEO of Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), says these areas are attracting interest making them prime investment opportunities.

“Wellington is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours like Stellenbosch and Paarl, but it offers an incredible quality of life,” said Herbst.

Wellington is situated at the foot of the Groenberg Mountain, featuring picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and a charming small-town atmosphere.

The slower pace of life and proximity to major centres make it an attractive option for those who want to balance convenience and tranquillity.

The town is also home to renowned educational institutions, such as the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s Wellington campus and top-tier primary and secondary schools.

“Education is a significant drawcard. Families are looking for areas that offer excellent schooling options without the congestion of larger cities,” said Herbst.

From an investment perspective, Wellington also presents a compelling case, with property prices still relatively affordable compared to Stellenbosch or Franschhoek while experiencing steady growth.

“Investors are recognising the value in Wellington’s real estate market.”

“With ongoing developments and infrastructure improvements, we anticipate significant appreciation in property values over the next few years,” the property expert said.

Malmesbury, the largest town in the Swartland, is also experiencing a renaissance and is the gateway to the West Coast.

“The government’s investment in infrastructure, particularly the N7 highway expansion, is transforming Malmesbury into a more accessible and attractive destination,” said Herbst.

Several new shopping nodes, including De Swartland Mall, Checkers, and the new Crestcare Hospital (opening in August), are adding to the town’s appeal.

With just a 45-minute drive to Cape Town, investors and commuters are drawn to the area. Malmesbury is also known for its fertile soils and robust agricultural sector, making it the heart of the Swartland wine region.

“The wine industry’s growth has a ripple effect on the local economy.”

“There’s a burgeoning interest in agri-tourism and related business opportunities, making Malmesbury a strategic investment choice.”

“We’re seeing a mix of young families, retirees, and entrepreneurs moving to Malmesbury. The combination of scenic beauty, a tight-knit community, and affordability is a powerful draw,” said Herbst.

The global shift to remote work has also made it more feasible for people to live further from city centres.

“People are no longer tied to offices in big cities. They’re looking for places that offer a better quality of life, and areas like Wellington and Malmesbury fit the bill perfectly.”

Compared to Cape Town’s increasing property prices, Wellington and Malmesbury offer value for money. Investors can buy larger properties at a fraction of the cost, benefiting from future growth potential.

There is also a growing push towards sustainable living and eco-friendly developments, with Wellington and Malmesbury being well-positioned to cater to this demand.

“The natural environment and existing agricultural practices in these areas align well with sustainable living initiatives. Investors are keen on projects that promote sustainability, which is another reason these areas are gaining traction.”

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