This year has seen the semigration trend continue as property owners move out of the cities into coastal towns such as those found along the KZN South Coast. Reece Daniel, Developer of one local eco-focused estate, Serenity Hills, said they had noted 4 particular qualities that the majority of investors were looking for when relocating.

“While quality and location remain key considerations when choosing a home, we’ve noted that buyers in South Africa are narrowing down their search criteria even further as they look for properties to invest in,” explained Daniel. “These are related to socio-economic conditions and long-term plans for a safe and sustainable residential unit to live in, or as a buy-to-rent investment.”

He said, in addition to the coastal lifestyle, those semigrating are looking for safer communities, to move away from traffic congestion in urban areas and the related stress and safety issues this entails: “The KZN South Coast ticks the boxes for these, but there are other in-demand qualities that buyers are looking for when weighing up their property investment options which are proving to be dealbreakers.”

1. Back-up power and water

With load-shedding set to remain in 2024, and the National Energy Regulator of South Africa’s approval of the electricity tariff hike, electricity remains a central concern for buyers. Water shortages experienced in Gauteng and other parts of the country, which aren’t going away, have also made water supply a factor to consider when investing in a residential estate. Daniel said that buyers are looking for developments offering on-site reservoirs for continued water supply, water collection units, solar-ready homes, and eco-conscious home designs.

2. Security

By no means a new consideration, Daniel said the level and type of security offered to home buyers is key when choosing an estate. Buyers want multi-layer electrified perimeter fencing with regular guarded patrols, state-of-the-art CCTV, biometric access control and app management for visitors and staff and 24-hour private security with armed response. However, the estate still needs to exude a sense of openness while incorporating these elements. Rather than intrusive security features, these need to merge into the estate’s design, providing peace of mind for residents.

3. Nature and space

The trend of building residential units in close proximity is fast being overthrown as buyers search for more low-density neighbourhoods that offer a sense of space within the natural environment. Open, green spaces and substantial buffer zones between units are preferred, with this desire for space reflected in open-plan living designs that flow naturally into indigenous gardens. Coastal climates, such as the subtropical climate of the KZN South Coast, support more outdoor living and entertainment in nature.

4. Value for money and flexibility

Buyers are looking for investments that are not only affordable, but offer value for money in terms of facilities available and services offered. Daniel said they also want flexibility when it comes to home design with plot-and-plan options, as well as vacant stands currently in demand.

Serenity Hills meets modern buyers’ needs

“In planning Serenity Hills, we considered these factors and more, which has seen a surge in buyers from South Africa and out-of-country investing in the first phase of the development,” explained Daniel. “We are planning to launch Phase 2 in the spring of this year which will give investors the chance to secure upmarket ridge plots with expansive ocean views, all constructed according to the qualities buyers want.”

The eco-conscious design of each of the 600 units supports community living with modern and high-quality finishes. All units are fitted with gas installation, solar-ready electrical installation to support backup power systems, and gutters for rain harvesting collection.

The estate also has on-site reservoirs to supplement the water supply. State-of-the-art security measures and the popular coastal location keep the development in demand, with residents enjoying all-inclusive facilities. This includes the clubhouse, extensive trails through 70ha private conservation, sports amenities, and the award-winning The Packshed restaurant.

Book your site visit now!

Buyers keen to get significant value for their investment are encouraged to visit Serenity Hills to view the remaining plots available before the launch of Phase 2! Buying a home in Serenity Hills is more than just enjoying a quality lifestyle - due to the area's rental market demand, Serenity Hills is also a great investment opportunity.

To find out more or to book a viewing at Serenity Hills, visit www.serenityhills.co.za. For regular updates, follow @serenityhillsecoestate on Facebook and Instagram.