Property investment trends for families or retirees show a shift towards coastal living in small towns, with sustainability, natural surroundings and conservation areas in high demand. The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast, with its nature reserves, Blue Flag beaches and world-class dive sites, is fast meeting this demand through the establishment of eco-focussed developments. 

Competitive location 

“We have seen a surge in property developments on the KZN South Coast the past few years, with keen buyers noting the many advantages of these coastal investments,” commented Nkululeko Hlongwane, investment and development manager of South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). 

“We have all the attributes of other South African coastal locations, with the added benefits of affordability, a year-round sub-tropical climate and the warm Indian Ocean. For retirees, the region allows retirement funds to go further as they enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle.” 

Serenity Hills, an eco-focussed estate near Margate. Image credit: Serenity Hills

The KZN South Coast offers incredible natural beauty, being home to several conservancy areas. Eleven world-class golf courses are found in the region and most developments plan to have various sports facilities on site for those wanting an active, outdoor lifestyle. 

Development boom  

There are several property developments along the KZN South Coast in response to the trend: 

• Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate, a R2-billion over-50s lifestyle development, is situated alongside an indigenous coastal forest in the tranquil village of Pennington. With 70% of the 150 hectares reserved for conservancy, the estate is home to an abundance of wildlife including blue duiker, bushbuck, mongoose and over 250 species of birds. 
• Serenity Hills, an R800-million eco-focussed estate near Margate, offers secure living for all ages in a tranquil coastal setting. Construction has already begun on homes, with buyers set to take residence this year. New developments include the construction of innovative forest pods, which are built into the flow of the natural landscape, with ocean views and coastal forest surrounds.  

Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate offers over-50s one of the more affordable coastal locations. Image credit: Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate

• Renishaw Coastal Precinct, a R15-billion development in Scottburgh, is on track to be a successful mixed-use precinct. Renishaw Hills, a 25ha retirement estate, has seen house values escalate by 50% in five years. This is likely set to continue as this 1 300ha mixed-use development unfolds. 
• The multi-billion-rand Bahari Bay eco-estate in Shelly Beach is set to be a state-of-the-art luxury community with top-notch facilities and excellent amenities. More than half of the 100ha eco-estate remains untouched, promising a conservation-focussed investment where peace and adventure collide. 
• Injabulo Lifestyle Estate in Margate boasts an estimated investment value of R300 million, largely from international investors. The 32ha development includes 254 freestanding, full-title homes with private gardens and ocean views, with zoning for medical and educational facilities.  

The KZN South Coast offers an attractive option for families and retirees, with a booming growth in residential developments in the region. 

For more information, contact SCTIE: 

Tel: +27 39 682 7944 

Email: oss@sctie.co.za  

Website: www.investkznsouthcoast.co.za