Several spokespeople for Cape estate agencies have recently gone on record saying that for the first time in three or four years they are once again seeing genuine interest from upcountry buyers in Cape coastal homes. What is more, they have said this is in almost all price ranges, including the top bracket – and they have tended to issue all manner of advice to prospective buyers on what to avoid and what to look for.
Bill Rawson, Chairman of the Rawson Property Group, says that he, too, finds there is renewed interest in Cape property, especially from Gauteng buyers. However, he added, he has one piece of advice for all: do not underestimate the southeaster.
“There have,” said Rawson, “been one or two cases in recent years where inexperienced upcountry buyers have been shown homes on idyllically calm days, fallen in love with them, made a good offer and taken occupation – only to find that, at the height of the summer, the southeaster can rage three, four or five days a week in their area. Understandably, they then feel cheated.”
Rawson, who holidayed in December 2012 in a wind-free home near Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town said that the coastal homes south of Fish Hoek and Hout Bay possibly represent the best long-term prospects for investors in the entire Cape Peninsula – and certain select sites out of the wind in these areas are, he said, often still available and represent the jewels in the crown.
“South Peninsula homes represent excellent value and as yet are not appreciated by the average Capetonian, except for those who are outdoor types – fishermen, divers, cyclists and mountain walkers. The proximity to the Cape Point Game Reserve alone makes this area unique in South Africa.”
