KZN South Coast poised for major property growth, new outlook reveals

The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast property market is seeing its strongest market confidence in more than a decade.

This is according to the newly released South Coast Property Outlook Report (2026–2030), which was published by Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate in partnership with RE/MAX Coast & Country.

The report, covering Umdoni, Pennington, Kelso and Scottburgh, links growing momentum to lifestyle migration, long-held stock re-entering the market, and demand for secure estate living.

It notes that the region recorded more than 230 transfers and over R300 million in registered sales during 2025.

The report identifies five primary factors reshaping the South Coast’s property landscape:

1. Semigration trends: Increased movement from Gauteng and the KZN North Coast, as buyers seek a slower, coastal lifestyle with improved work-life balance;
2. Mature seller demographic: Most sellers are aged 50 to 65+, with many having owned for more than eight years, pointing to a steady release of long-held properties as life-stage needs change;
3. Growing demand for lifestyle estates: Rising appetite for secure, sustainable estates offering lifestyle value, safety and a strong sense of community;
4. Shift toward eco-living and wellness-led communities: Increased preference for eco-conscious development and wellness-oriented living aligned with the South Coast’s natural environment;
5. Proven capital appreciation in leading estates: The report highlights capital growth in top-performing estates, with values in Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate appreciating by 20% to 40% between 2018 and 2025, strengthening the investment case for the region.

Pat Symcox, owner of RE/MAX Coast & Country, said: “The South Coast is entering a golden era. Buyers are not simply investing in the region—they are choosing to make it their home.”

He further noted that the five factors identified in the report will significantly influence the region's development over the next five years.

Looking ahead, the Outlook projects a 5% to 7% average annual rise in property transactions between 2026 and 2030, with anticipated capital growth of 15% to 25% in top-performing lifestyle estates over the period.

The report also points to increasing demand for retirement, eco-conscious and wellness-focused estate living.

Sean Willis, CFO of Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate, said, “Meaningful, sustainable living is now the currency of modern property. Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate’s performance reflects a broader South Coast shift where buyers are prioritising nature, wellness, security and community.”

The affordability gap between the KZN South Coast and the KZN North Coast remains a key driver of buyer interest.

According to LOOM area reporting, the North Coast’s median valuations sit at approximately R4.28 million for full-title homes and R2.95 million for sectional title, with an average recent sale price of around R3.91 million.

By comparison, the Pennington area’s median valuations are approximately R1.29 million (full title) and R990,000 (sectional title), with an average sale price of around R1.40 million. 

According to the report, 2025 to 2027 represents a particularly strong window for lifestyle buyers and investors seeking value, renovation potential, or strategic flip opportunities (for experienced investors).

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