KZN South Coast set for property growth surge to 2030

• South Coast property market records strongest activity in over a decade as semigration and lifestyle demand accelerate sales and investment.
• Affordable coastal pricing versus North Coast draws buyers seeking value, retirement options and secure estate living.
• Outlook projects steady transaction growth and capital appreciation through 2030, especially in lifestyle estates.

South Coast property momentum gains pace

The KZN South Coast property market is entering what many industry participants describe as a turning point, with renewed buyer activity, lifestyle migration and estate development reshaping the region’s outlook.

The newly released South Coast Property Outlook Report (2026 - 2030), published by Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate in partnership with RE/MAX Coast & Country, highlights rising demand across nodes including Umdoni, Pennington, Kelso and Scottburgh.

The region recorded more than 230 property transfers and over R300 million in registered sales during 2025, signalling the strongest confidence levels seen in over a decade.

Five forces driving the shift

‍According to the report, five structural drivers are reshaping demand:

• Semigration from Gauteng and the KZN North Coast as buyers seek coastal lifestyle and improved work-life balance.
• Older homeowners releasing long-held properties as life-stage needs evolve.
• Rising demand for secure lifestyle estates offering safety and community living.
• Growing preference for eco-conscious and wellness-driven developments.
• Proven capital appreciation in leading estates strengthening investor confidence.

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Pat Symcox, Owner of RE/MAX Coast & Country, says: “The South Coast is entering a golden era. Buyers are not simply investing here, they are choosing to make it home.”

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Estate living and redevelopment opportunities expand

‍Demand is particularly strong in lifestyle estates, with developments such as Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate benefiting from the growing desire for secure, nature-focused living.

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Sean Willis, CFO of Umdoni Point, notes: “Sustainable, meaningful living has become central to modern property decisions. Buyers are prioritising nature, wellness and community.”

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Meanwhile, older housing stock returning to the market is creating redevelopment and renovation opportunities at accessible price levels.

Active listings in Pennington, for example, declined sharply from 355 to 203 properties over recent months, while average asking prices edged higher, indicating that well-priced stock is being absorbed, even as buyers become more selective.

Affordability advantage over North Coast remains key

Price differentials between the South Coast and North Coast continue to attract lifestyle buyers and investors.

Median home values on the KZN North Coast sit around R4.28 million for freehold homes, compared to approximately R1.29 million in Pennington, with sectional title pricing showing a similar gap.

This affordability advantage allows buyers to secure coastal property at significantly lower entry points while still benefiting from long-term growth potential.

Infrastructure investment boosting confidence

‍The region is also benefiting from broader infrastructure and community investment, including:

• Opening of a private hospital in Scottburgh
• Upgrades positioning Margate Airport for expanded commercial flights
• Planned Port Shepstone harbour development
• Environmental and community initiatives maintaining beach quality and Blue Flag status

Such investments support job creation, tourism growth and long-term residential appeal.

Growth outlook through 2030

‍The Outlook forecasts annual transaction growth of 5% to 7% between 2026 and 2030, alongside potential capital appreciation of 15% to 25% in leading lifestyle estates.

For investors and lifestyle buyers alike, the period between 2025 and 2027 may represent a particularly attractive entry window before pricing adjusts further.

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Paul Tedder, founder of Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate, believes awareness is catching up with value: “This coastline remains one of South Africa’s most undervalued coastal markets, but not for long.”

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A coastal market finding its moment

With affordability, lifestyle appeal and long-term investment fundamentals aligning, the KZN South Coast is increasingly positioning itself as one of South Africa’s most compelling coastal residential markets.

For buyers seeking value, lifestyle and future growth, the region may finally be stepping into its long-anticipated spotlight.

DOWNLOAD SOUTH COAST REPORT

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