KZN South Coast, a semigration hotspot – Pam Golding Properties

As semigration trends continue to reshape South Africa’s residential landscape, a quiet shift is taking place along the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast.

Long overshadowed by the rapid expansion of the North Coast, the lower South Coast – stretching from Mtwalume to Port Edward – is emerging as a premier choice for buyers seeking a blend of lifestyle value and coastal affordability, says Mohammed Valodia, Pam Golding Properties area principal for Port Shepstone.

Margate airport revival 

A significant catalyst for this renewed interest is the revival of Margate Airport, which now offers direct, daily flights to OR Tambo International Airport.

This improved connectivity is said to have turned the region into a viable option for Gauteng-based professionals who can now commute or visit second homes with ease, according to Pam Golding.

Valodia notes that the proximity of the airport allows for stress-free trips, making weekend getaways or remote work setups more practical than ever before.

He says approximately 50% of current buyers are looking for primary residences or retirement properties, while the remainder are securing holiday apartments or second homes with strong rental potential.

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“Growing interest from semigrants and young families continues to underline the region’s long-term potential as both a lifestyle and investment destination,” notes Valodia.

“There’s been a notable increase in semigration from Gauteng and other inland provinces.

“Many buyers are seeking immediate or future retirement properties, while others are making permanent moves to enjoy coastal living, supported by the flexibility of remote work… Holiday investors remain active too, particularly in Margate, Uvongo and St Michaels-on-Sea, where demand for short-term rentals is consistent year-round,” he adds.

Read: Considering semigration? Do it now, says expert

According to Pam Golding Properties, while major metropolitan areas have seen sharp price surges, the South Coast offers a dependable market with accessible entry points for various buyers:

• Vacant land: Stands in growth nodes like Hibberdene and Umtentweni are priced between R80 000 and R250 000 for roughly 1 500 sqm.
• Sectional title: Sought-after two-bedroom apartments set back from the beach start around R700 000, with secure “lock-up-and-go” units typically ranging from R900 000 to R1.5 million.
• Family homes: Standard three-to-four-bedroom homes are attracting solid interest at prices between R1.2 million and R2.5 million.
• Frontline luxury: Beachfront freehold properties generally begin at R2.5 million, while direct-access apartments start at approximately R1.2 million.

Strategic growth and economic boosts

Buyer confidence is further bolstered by several landmark infrastructure projects. The recent announcement that Port Shepstone will host South Africa’s first new small-town harbour is expected to signal future job creation and fresh opportunities for growth in industry and tourism.

Further south in Port Edward, interest is gathering around new shopping centers and medical suites, including a proposed private hospital.

Additionally, significant progress is being made on the Msikaba and Mtentu bridges, which will form part of a new road link to the Eastern Cape.

Read:
A mushrooming South Coast success story
Construction on R4bn Mtentu Bridge project halted amid protests [Oct 2024]
Tourists return to KZN South Coast, but water problems persist [April 2024]

The lifestyle appeal extends northward to the village of Pennington, where 40% of buyers are now purchasing for primary residence. Pam Golding area principal Stef Nel reports a trend of younger families relocating to the area.

“With excellent value for money on offer, younger families are increasingly relocating to the area, supported by good schools nearby and the flexibility of remote work. This younger generation is also showing strong preference for eco-conscious features and smart home technology,” says Nel.

Closer to Durban, Amanzimtoti remains a stronghold for local buyers, who account for 80% of market activity. While the high-volume R750 000 to R1.8 million bracket remains busy, premium streets like Ipahla Drive continue to command prices between R3 million and R20 million for coastal homes.

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