This has been a generally positive year for the South African housing market as new government policies, a more stable economic environment, and the latest interest rate cut boding well. On the KZN South Coast, where property demand continues to rise, local developers have shared their insights into trends they foresee in 2025.

“We’ve certainly noted an upward trend in the property market with local and international buyers feeling more confident following the May elections,” explained Reece Daniel, Developer of the eco-focused estate, Serenity Hills on the KZN South Coast. “With the South African Reserve Bank cutting the interest rate by 25 basis points in November, bringing the prime lending rate to 11.25%, we believe the demand is only set to increase. There have been a number of interesting trends emerging in terms of property demand and buyers in the second half of the year, and we anticipate this trajectory continuing as we start 2025.” 

Trend #1: Demand for land

Daniel said there had been a significant increase in buyers choosing land sales over pre-developed properties: “With the recent reduction in interest rates and discussions about potential further cuts, clients are showing strong enthusiasm for our land parcels, which offer exceptional value for money as they come platformed, and with connection to all utilities within a residential estate.”

Trend #2: Buying land for cash

“Clients are also choosing to buy land as it allows them to manage their expenses more effectively,” continued Daniel. “By securing the land with cash and financing the construction through a home loan, they have more flexibility to design and build their dream home without facing the financial strain of a large, upfront investment.”

Trend #3: Buying for the future

Another notable trend has been interest from buyers aged 40 and above. “Rather than buying a home for now, these land purchases are more strategic, with buyers looking to build a home in the future, or as an investment opportunity.”

Trend #4: More first-time buyers

Daniel said that the interest rate cut has poised the South African housing market for a much-needed recovery, with more first-time home buyers likely to invest: “Homeownership is now more accessible to first-time buyers as there are lower monthly repayments on home loans. This is the right time for investors who’ve been waiting to enter the property market.”

Trend #5: Self-sufficient estates

Finally, Daniel said that while the stability of the national grid has secured investor confidence, future-focused buyers are still looking for secure estates that offer the foundations for getting off-grid, both in terms of electricity consumption and water use.

“The semi-gration trend towards coastal towns such as Margate is only set to continue as people seek that holiday lifestyle,” says Daniel. “Demand will continue to grow for estates such as Serenity Hills which meet this need while incorporating self-sufficient elements. This includes energy efficiency built into the design so that buyers building a property can factor in off-grid living. There are also water retention options and on-site reservoirs to supplement water supply to residents – aspects the modern buyer is looking for.”

Investing in Serenity Hills

This eco-focused estate near Margate boasts modern amenities and state-of-the-art security in this coastal forest setting. The Packshed, Sweetdale Night Market, and Sweet Gang & Friends Farm Stall also form part of Serenity Hills, giving residents access to farm-fresh, home-baked goods, and handcrafted items.

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, and various sports amenities.

Interested parties are encouraged to get in touch now to secure a spot! 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. To find out more or book at The Packshed, visit www.thepackshed.co.za.