KZN South Coast sparks sudden interest from property investors

By: Dylan Naidoo

The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is quickly becoming a hotspot for property investment opportunities. The South Coast Property Outlook Report for 2026-2030, by Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate and RE/MAX Coast and Country, details that property is becoming popular amongst lifestyle buyers, retirees and long-term investors interested in the value proposition and future growth of the area. The areas of interest are mainly Pennington and Scottburgh, both coastal community areas offering affordable housing and redevelopment potential.

Statistics

The report details that in Pennington alone, from the 355 active listings in 2025, the average price of property in the area was R1,437,174. This is significantly less than the KZN North Coast according to the report, boasting an average property price 2.8 times higher than Pennington (The reader should note that these statistics were not taken during the same timeframe, with Pennington’s statistics taken in November 2025 and KZN North Coast’s statistic taken in January 2026). 

These statistics showcase how affordable the lifestyle of the KZN South Coast is compared to the north, considering the potential development of Pennington and the coastal destination makes it attractive to retirees and investors. In addition, the property is being bought up quickly in the area, as the report mentions that from September to December 2025, active listings in Pennington dropped by 43%, along with average asking prices rising to R1.5 million. The report further details that the majority of sellers are the older demographic, with 79% of full title sellers being 50 plus years old. The statistics are similar for sectional sellers at 80% for the same demographic. However, the demographic of buyers between 36-40 years old are at a rise in Pennington, for both the full and sectional title properties.

Drivers to Investment

From these statistics, there is wide speculation for the property market at the KZN South Coast. The report mentions that due to factors such as an aging demographic as well as long term homeowners, the next three to five years could see an increase of new property listings. Along with these factors, there is also speculation of redevelopment in this area in the coming years. One of these developments is the need for estates that offer security, constant maintenance and community living.  Another aspect in focus for development is the rise of eco living. Essentially, these are properties more closely located near nature, which can be a very attractive aspect for some buyers.

Predictions for 2026-2030

●      Sales and transfers expected to increase by 5-7% annually with the sale of new estates.

●      The capital appreciation of estates is expected to grow 15-25% in the coming five years.

●      Older properties are expected to be redeveloped to meet contemporary standards.

●      The market risk is expected to be moderate

Benefits

The coastal lifestyle is an attractive prospect for potential buyers, and an increase in market demand also creates numerous opportunities. This includes the new influx of buyers supporting more businesses, redevelopments allowing for more job opportunities as well as tourism.

The KZN South Coast provides a great prospect for property investors to have a look at. The number of advantages, as well as anticipated opportunities showcases an area filled with redevelopment potential and an attractive lifestyle for aspiring buyers.

Pat Symcox, Owner of RE/MAX Coast and Country