Get the lowdown on the Durban Beachfront property market from local estate agents.
How secure is the Durban beachfront and has the visible police presence boosted sales?
Durban is a modern city, like any other in the world. In my opinion Durban’s beachfront is probably the safest beachfront in South Africa. The city has gone to great lengths to attract local and international investors and experience has taught me that investors place security issues at the top of the agenda. There is a visible police presence on the beachfront as well as security guards on almost every corner. Visible policing has definitely resulted in a spike in property prices which has increased the number of sales, and enquiries that are received on a daily basis.
Ricky Gangaram: Agent, Tyson Properties, uShaka
Are investors drawn to the beachfront area and if so, why?
In the past decade, Durban’s beachfront has reinvented itself, resulting in a contemporary tourism, entertainment and local community stretch of coastline. In this area, it’s all about lifestyle. With the imminent extension of Tsogo Sun’s Suncoast, the transformation of the Natal Command site into Film City, and the long-awaited uShaka mixed-use precinct and infrastructure, small wonder property values have sky-rocketed. Whether it’s buy-to-let investors, Gauteng families establishing holiday homes, retirees, or permanent residents, front-line properties in particular are in short supply, and command premium prices. Here, sea views are breathtaking, amenities within walking distance, security prioritised, and tenants plentiful.
Myles Wakefield: CEO, Wakefields Estate Agents
What’s drawing buyers to the beachfront area?
As agents we are seeing a renewed interest in property on the waterfront, South Beach and North Beach. Apartment prices on the beachfront start at about R600,000, and to the front line from R1,2m to R3m plus. This has become a sought-after area. There is such a buzz over the proposed developments set to start now for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The skyline, which includes the iconic arc of Moses Mabhida Stadium, seems to symbolise our unity and love for sport, and rich and diverse music. Host to film festivals and religious/holiday celebrations, the warm and friendly Durban beachfront draws us in.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
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