Safety, convenience, spectacular views and a tightly-knit community are some of the main reasons that Kleinmond on the Whale Coast in the Western Cape continues to draw a large complement of homebuyers on the point of retirement.
"Kleinmond is on par with many other favoured retirement destinations in our region and other parts of the country as far as infrastructure, safety and convenience are concerned, but the natural beauty and easy lifestyle in a caring community are often decisive factors," says Anmar Marais, area specialist for the local Chas Everitt International franchise.
Kleinmond is situated between Betty's Bay and Hermanus, and is wedged between the Atlantic Ocean and the Kogelberg mountain range. It flanks a lagoon at the mouth of the Bot River and lies within the UNESCO-declared Kogelberg Biosphere reserve, which is home to about 1600 species of fynbos.
And for young-at-heart retirees, Kleinmond property offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including safe swimming in the lagoon, long walks along the beach and on nature trails through the indigenous fynbos, whale watching, and several activity groups, such as the local bird watching and hiking clubs, Marais says.
“However, all conveniences are close at hand, including shops and general medical services, while specialist services are easily accessible in Hermanus and Cape Town.”
The local farming community is also currently active in the Kleinmond residential market, she says, with many farmers buying holiday homes now with a view to using them as retirement homes in the future.
“In the holiday high seasons, Kleinmond's natural beauty and amenities also draw many tourists and the local market for holiday homes, which was negatively affected by the recession, is now also starting to pick up steam again. In addition, undeveloped stands near the beach have become more popular again and quite a number have been sold in the past six months."
Prices of sea view stands range from about R750 000 to R900 000, and those for holiday homes near the beach from R2,8m to around R4,5m although some top properties are being marketed at prices of up to R10m.
Most retirees, however, target homes under the R1 million mark. Prices of homes in the Palmiet area, for example, start at around R650 000 while those in the very popular Klein Berlyn area range from about R800 000 to R6,9m. In Heuningkloof, one of the newer areas, prices start at around R1 million. Small bachelor flats in the centre of town are still available from about R300 000.
For more information please contact Anmar Marais on 082 563 9910 or anmar.marais@everitt.co.za