KZN’s luxury hotspot where a R17 million house would have cost over R100 million in Cape Town

Sentiment for residential property in the coastal areas of north Durban has improved dramatically since the start of 2025, and selling prices are far lower than comparable properties in Cape Town.

This is Carol Reynolds, Pam Golding Properties area principal for Durban Coastal, who said that the improved sentiment is down to several meaningful investments in the area.

This includes the R2 billion Club Med beach resort coming to Tinley Manor and the R20 billion expansion of the Sibaya precinct by Devmco.

The precinct is set to offer a mix of retail, commercial and residential outlets alongside iconic Five-star hotels. Other plans include private walking trails, secure beach clubs, sports facilities and a new school.

International and local companies have also recently pledged to invest roughly. R75.8 billion in new property developments and manufacturing plants across the province.

“We have seen a noticeable uptick in residential market activity across all price bands – including the luxury market – since January this year,” said Reynolds.

“In fact, January was one of our busiest months, which is unusual for this time of the year when buyers are normally more focused on settling back into their school routines.”

“Currently, we have interest from Dubai residents in the Sibaya precinct, especially some of the frontline sites in Signature Estate.”

“We are also seeing the return of Johannesburg buyers who are finding Cape Town prices too high and hence are revisiting the value proposition offered here in KZN.”

There is also evidence of a recovery in planned residential building activity, with the total number of plans passed rising by over 39% in 2024, according to Stats SA.

Reynolds said that the areas of uMhlanga, La Lucia and Durban North are well-positioned to benefit from the heightened interest in the region due to their prime coastal areas that are centrally located.

“These provide easy access to all the varied attractions the province offers including beaches, game reserves, the Drakensberg Mountains, and numerous others,” said Reynolds.

“One of the factors that continues to drive demand in these areas is the ease of living – no traffic congestion, everything conveniently on your doorstep, including good schools.”

“It is interesting to note that activity is by no means limited to the lower to middle price band – we are seeing activity in the housing market across the board.”

“Many upcountry buyers are seeking homes in coastal estates, as they want security, sea views and proximity to the airport, and are looking in the price band between R7 million and R12 million.”

“Estates like Hawaan Forest, Izinga and Gold Coast are attracting interest. Some of our clients who built homes in new estates like Gold Coast have experienced sound capital appreciation and have managed to flip for a profit.”

She added that there are hopes that the new Club Med and the addition of new direct international flights like Air Fance will drive momentum on the international stage.

High-end homes in demand

Pam Gold also highlighted the value for money in the residential marekt in the area, with the company selling a four-bedroom luxury mansion in uMhlanga to a local buyer for close to R17 million.

Given its prime position on the beachfront and its space staff accommodation, the property was far cheaper than a similar property in Cape Town.

“Had this exquisite home been situated in Clifton, Cape Town, it would probably have achieved a price in excess of R100 million,” said Reynolds.

The company also sold a six-bedroom home in the sought-after the Executive Estate in La Lucia. With its scenic views, the property sold for R20 million to a local buyer.

The real estate firm has another R13 million four-bedroom home for sale in the Gold Coast security estate in Sibaya, which is flooded with natural light and has sweeping sea views.