One of Cape Town’s most appealing factors is that it boasts a diversity of lifestyles, from cosmopolitan city living to quaint seaside villages and the charming oceanside suburbs of Noordhoek and Kommetjie, have been attracting their fair share of attention in recent years.
Connected by a pristine 12km stretch of beach and each with their own distinct characters, these two unique hubs have become increasingly popular as the growing move towards a more tranquil lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle has gathered momentum.
Natalie Cooper, Area Specialist in Kommetjie for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty says that despite the slowing of the market, Kommetjie remains a popular residential destination with locals as well as Gauteng and Kwa-Zulu Natal semigrants.
“Sales to buyers from other provinces did drop off when the market began to turn two years ago and the drought was at its worst but, with full dams and price adjustments to more affordable levels, these sales are picking up again.
“We have also received an encouraging number of enquiries from foreign investors in recent months, especially from foreign tourists during the festive season.”
Lilian Bron, Area Specialist in Noordhoek for the group, echoes these sentiments: “Although the market has been slow for the past two years it’s beginning to pick up again, especially at the top-end of the market which has borne the brunt of the downturn.
“I’ve started to receive a steady flow of enquiries for higher-end properties and, during the past couple of weeks, I’ve shown a stunning R18 million home to 12 serious buyers with a sale imminent.”
She adds that the lower end of the market is also enjoying a renewed spark of activity with well-priced homes once again receiving considerable interest.
“What is apparent is that Investor confidence, in general, may have waned but Noordhoek remains as popular as ever with droves of people still flocking here regularly to enjoy its quaint rural atmosphere, vibrant markets and world-class amenities.
“There is also a tangible and undeniably positive sentiment from both locals and foreigners who not only appreciate Noordhoek’s unique charm but also the city as a whole and the people of South Africa.”
Cooper adds that the recent uptick is likely to be bolstered by the fact that banks are now offering excellent rates as well as actively supporting self-employed and first-time buyers and, being a bullish buyer’s market, there are many great investment opportunities to be found.
“The ongoing road works have also significantly impacted the market in recent years, making accessibility very difficult at times, but with the upgrades almost complete, we are already seeing what a difference the new improved road will make to the area.”
Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque areas in the Western Cape, Noordhoek has a serene rural atmosphere with leafy lanes as well as spectacular ocean and mountain views from the Western section, and it offers the epitome of the idyllic village lifestyle.
Kommetjie is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back seaside lifestyle and enjoys a strong sense of community. As a premier site for observing seabirds and also part of the fynbos biome, it’s also a nature-lovers paradise.”
Lovers of the great outdoors, especially, find these areas attractive as they can indulge in all manner of activities including hiking, fishing, horse riding, boating and cycling literally on their doorstep. And both suburbs are renowned surfing hot spots.
There are also excellent amenities in the area, from medical care to several excellent schools and it’s only a short drive over the mountain to the freeway and CBD as well as nearby business centres such as Westlake Business Park.
Cooper concludes: “The area still offers excellent value for money compared to similar coastal suburbs and it also has a broad range of properties catering to all budgets with young families being able to buy a sizeable freestanding family home near to the beach.”
