Semigration is one of the hottest trends in the property market this year. It is also the reason why the semigration destinations continue to see strong property market performance despite the rising interest rate and economic concerns, says Samuel Seeff, chairman of the Seeff Property Group.
Seeff further says that for many people, semigration is the preferred alternative to emigration. Most people do not want to leave the country, and would rather move elsewhere for better security, schooling and service delivery.
While those looking to sell their property with a view to emigrate is around 11% of all sellers according to information from FNB, semigration often accounts for as much as 20% of buyer enquiries according to Seeff’s branches in the hotspot areas.
The semigration trend is also often the result of high urbanisation which adds stress and traffic volumes, and people simply want to get away to a quieter area, says Seeff. As we know, the lockdowns and restrictions of the Covid-pandemic has been a strong boost for a renewed wave of semigration. People are often only held back by their properties not selling or a shortage of commercial opportunity.
Semigration has also been tremendously beneficial to areas such as the Garden Route and many small towns as it brings new business into the areas. John Loos, property sector strategist from FNB for example recently said semigration has also brought benefits to the commercial property sector.
The most popular areas where semigration buyers are moving to include:
Cape Town
The city remains the most popular with more buyers heading there compared to any other semigration areas. Service delivery and some of the best schools and universities in the country along with coastal lifestyle tops the reasons. Buyers are often prepared to sacrifice in terms of size and space because property prices are about 20% higher in the Cape compared to the rest of the country.
George and Mossel Bay
These Garden Route towns are a more affordable alternative to Cape Town, but also offer a quieter lifestyle since there is little in the way of stress or traffic. The sea is also warmer and the climate a bit better, says Pieter Jordaan, licensee for Seeff George. Well-run, safe and excellent schools and amenities as well as access to city benefits are among the reasons why people choose these areas.
Winelands
Towns such as Somerset West, Stellenbosch and Paarl are drawing more semigration buyers, especially those looking for a winelands lifestyle according to Seeff’s branches. With the University of Stellenbosch and top schools such as Paarl Boys, Paarl Gymnasium and Paul Roos and a host of lifestyle and golf estates to choose from, these areas have become a top choice for many buyers including the wealthy.
Hermanus and Langebaan
These two towns, both located under two hours’ drive from Cape Town are also drawing more semigration buyers, especially older buyers. These areas tend to mostly attract semigrants from the Western Cape including those in the farming areas. There is also an increasing number of people who are able to commute from Cape Town, choosing the quietness that these towns offer, says Seeff.
Umhlanga
According to Brett Botsis, licensee for Seeff Umhlanga, this area has become a semigration hotspot for buyers from Joburg who are either moving there, or choosing to invest in a second home. The airport is close by which makes it a quick hop to Johannesburg for commuting purposes. Aside from the beach lifestyle, you have access to Gateway and the new Oceans Mall as well as a busy commercial sector which offers opportunities for businesses and services.
Ballito
Ballito emains one of the most popular areas for semigration buyers. Ballito and Zimbali remain in high demand because of its proximity to the King Shaka Airport and Durban. These have been among the fastest growing areas in the country, and although there have been some setbacks over the last 18 months, the areas continue to thrive, offering access to good schools and a quality lifestyle.
Plettenberg Bay
The area is now attracting both young and old and has seen a tremendous uptick in sales over the last two years with more people moving in and investing in second homes. Outside of Cape Town, it also achieves some of the highest prices above R20 million according to Seeff Plettenberg Bay. It offers a fabulous lifestyle and amenities and is also close to George for access to city benefits.
Pretoria East
More people are looking to the eastern side of the capital these days for more security and lifestyle benefits. According to Seeff Pretoria East, there are excellent schools and the University of Pretoria and the area offers a laid-back lifestyle. The area offers various price points along with gated communities and estates to choose from.
Hartbeespoort
The town has become popular with semigration buyers from Pretoria and Johannesburg which are under an hour away. You can live in Hartbeespoort and commute daily. There is a choice of luxury estates, good security and a scenic environment with the Magaliesberg Mountains and dam for water-sport, and outdoor activities such a hiking, cycling and more. Shopping and schools are also available in the area.
Writer : Gina Meintjes
