A home with a sea view - does it really matter?

It's the stroke of dawn. Outside the lapping of waves creates a tranquil atmosphere. You stretch out and head to your window. The sun is rising, casting a heavenly light over the water. Seagulls are taking to the sky, surfers are battling the waves. You've never felt more at ease. With a sigh, you heed the call of the water. You wander out to dip your toes and enjoy the freshest of fresh air.

For years, the sea has captured countless hearts with its beauty. Jacques Cousteau, the French undersea explorer, put it best: "The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever." When it comes to property, does a sea view count? According to Theresa Marais, Century 21 Groot Brakrivier's Principal, it's a yes.

"Buyers love sea views. They're beautiful and raise the value of your property. A sea-facing home can get a bump as high as R300 000."

Groot Brakrivier, in particular, is well known for its scenic beauty. This coastal village is nestled in the Garden Route, midway between George and Mossel Bay. Groot Brakrivier (English: Great Brak River) has several pristine beaches and a lagoon. It's becoming a popular escape for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

According to Marais, the sea views have a unique quality you won't see in other parts of the Western Cape coastline. 

"The area is less densely populated than Camps Bay, for example. You'll also find there are much longer stretches of beach." 

The advantage is that you'll have a clear line of sight, especially during the whale watching season. From June to November, southern right whales mate and breed along the Western Cape coastline. In Groot Brakrivier, you'll get a dazzling display of acrobatics as they command the water. The marine life also teems with dolphins, seals, and fish. 

Could such a lovely view be destroyed? Marais says you can rest assured that won't happen. There are very strict rules as to how far from the sea you can build to protect the dunes and flora. 

According to the National Environmental Act, land situated wholly or partially within 100 metres of the high-water mark forms part of a coastal protection zone. Groot Brakrivier is part of the Mossel Bay Municipality. In 2012, the Mossel Bay Town Council enforced the Act's requirements, disallowing any further development applications within the zone. There's no better reason not to consider investing in the area.

Sea-view-facing properties in Groot Brakrivier

You can buy a piece of land in the area for as little as R390 000. Or you can live the good life in one of the area's luxury homes. 

• 6-bedroom house in Outeniqua Strand: This double-storey house is in a prime position overlooking the Indian Ocean. The design incorporates the magnificent views of the coast, mountain, and fynbos which can be seen from all living areas.

• 5-bedroom house in Tergniet: This sturdy, spacious home is an ocean lover's dream. You can relax on one of the balconies, watching the whales and dolphins at your doorstep.

• 5-bedroom house in Outeniqua Strand: With this home, you'll have your own footpath to the beach. Its two wooden decks each have a built-in braai to soak up the sunshine and beautiful ocean views.

If you're not a fan of sea views (really now?), Groot Brakrivier has plenty of other landscape eye candy on show. 

"The prevailing winds come from the sea", notes Marais. "So more often than not, you will rather be using the northern side of your home. There are some stunning properties that have river and valley views that are protected from the wind."

Looking for a Groot Brakrivier property with a view? Trust our Century 21 team. Our agents don't settle for average. They go above and beyond to make sure you find your perfect home. Contact us now.