Opposite spectrums drive KZN property demand
On the back of consistent and ongoing demand across residential markets, it should come as no surprise that the retirement and education sectors are at the forefront of this demand.
KWAZULU-Natal is rapidly shaking off the mantle of the laid-back regional economy. All indications are that the undeveloped land surrounding major centres holds enormous value that could reshape the face of one of South Africa’s most popular coastlines. Xoli Shabalala, Head of Market Solutions at Tongaat Hulett Developments, says extensive research of these opportunities highlight a number of key drivers.
“On the back of consistent and ongoing demand across residential markets, it should come as no surprise that the retirement and education sectors are at the forefront of this demand,” said Shabalala. “What is interesting about these findings is that they straddle the two outer extremes of society — the youngest and oldest generations.”
The retirement market is a natural fit for all that KwaZulu-Natal offers in terms of quality lifestyle and an enviable climate. And this demand is not likely to slow down in the near future, with the World Health Organisation projecting South Africa’s population over the age of 60 to increase from 7.7 per cent of the total to 15.4 per cent over the next 35 years.
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At the other end of the spectrum, the demand for educational facilities is growing at an equally brisk pace. The private school sector is expanding at break-neck speed, particularly as affordable options are becoming more commonplace.
For example, one of the pioneers in this space, ADvTECH, has recently concluded a transaction to build the first new school in the uMhlanga region in more than 14 years. The 2 000-learner primary and secondary school is being constructed at Sibaya Coastal Precinct and is expected to open its doors in 2020. In addition, Curro is also planning to build a new school in the uMhlanga area.
With primary and secondary learners being catered for, demand from the educational sector naturally spills over into tertiary education, both academic and skills-based, in the form of growth of existing institutions and establishment of new facilities and campuses. Indications are strong for significant growth in this sector and likely to be sustained over the next decade.
Read also: Education group to develop new school in the Sibaya region
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