Lightstone research shows foreign buyers are flocking to South African shores, and it's hardly a surprise. Attractive homes with equally attractive price tags, a fantastic climate, and a favourable currency exchange rate are proving to be an alluring combination. Hoedspruit, in particular, is showing strong interest, with everything these buyers want and more, says Rob Severin, Principal and Owner of Century 21 Wildlife Properties.
Sights set on sunshine, safaris, and serenity
According to Severin, the area is drawing in foreign buyers from around 15 different countries, primarily the Netherlands, Germany, the UK, the USA, France, Italy, and Belgium. "They're after the quintessential bush experience. Most of our wildlife do not exist in other parts of the world and that is a big attraction for them," says Severin.
Set in Limpopo, Hoedspruit is known for regular sightings of leopards, grey duikers, warthogs, impalas, kudus, giraffes, bushbucks, zebras, waterbucks, and wildebeest. In estates like Raptor's View Wildlife Estate, the fencing of properties is forbidden to allow wildlife free movement. The benefit is that residents can often see these amazing creatures up close.
Unsurprisingly, the demand for Hoedspruit property has skyrocketed. Severin estimates that in the last 12 years, vacant land that would have been sold for R200,000 would now cost as much as R1.5 million today. While driven mainly by locals, foreign buyers are having an important influence on the area.
Properties high up on buyer lists
According to Severin, foreign buyers are eyeing up mainly holiday homes and small private lodges. "The small commercial lodges make up a small number of sales since foreigners can experience difficulty in getting residency and work permits. This makes holiday homes with rental or income potential very popular," he shares.
Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate and Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate rank amongst the top residences for foreign buyers. Zandspruit, a vast 1,000-ha estate near Kruger National Park, gives residents access to game drives, horse riding, cycling, walking, jogging, and picnics in the untouched wilderness. With house styles including pavilion, farmhouse, and thatch, the estate's homes cater to a variety of tastes. Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate boasts scenic views of the Drakensberg mountain escarpment and unparalleled tranquillity. It places a strong emphasis on conservation and security, so residents can live in harmony with nature while enjoying modern facilities in comfort.
Beyond the four walls of their properties, buyers can also find a variety of amenities at their fingertips. Hoedspruit offers flights through the Eastgate Airport (HDS), and there are plans for it to operate under an international airport licence. For shopping, the area offers quick access to Hoedspruit Wildlife Shopping Centre, Kamogelo Centre, and The Rock Fig Centre.
Hoedspruit has several healthcare facilities and is in the process of launching the Hoedspruit Private Hospital in 2024. This will offer a state-of-the-art trauma unit, radiology diagnostic facility, pathology, surgical and medical facilities, and beds as well as all key ancillary allied clinical services. For permanent residents, the area also has stellar schooling options including Lowveld Academy, Southern Cross Schools, and Hoedspruit Christian School.
Top tips for buying and selling
Making informed decisions is key to any property purchase, especially for foreign buyers in Hoedspruit. "If you are looking to live here permanently you should get all your approvals in place before you purchase unless you are happy to travel back and forth on a holiday permit," says Severin. "You should also make sure the funds brought in are done correctly with reserve bank clearance."
Overall, Severin says that foreigners will find few barriers to buying a holiday home. As this is a significant real estate market, there are also several property management companies in the area that can assist with looking after a home while residents are away and even letting them out for an additional income.
Century 21 Wildlife Properties is currently experiencing a shortage of stock, highlighting the vibrant market in the area. "It all comes down to pricing your home correctly to get the best buyer. Aligning with a real estate agency with good marketing channels, a global referral network, and well-trained and qualified property professionals will also ensure your success," shares Severin.
Live the dream in Hoedspruit
Finding property in the area is easy with Century 21 Wildlife Properties. "Foreign buyers recognise the renowned Century 21 brand and this has been a big benefit to us. But because we get a significant portion of foreigners, we understand the expectations they have and the challenges with regard to language and property terminology," highlights Severin.
"With our expertise, we are able to help them navigate through the buying process. Property laws and processes are different in each country; our knowledge of this and knowing our market makes us well-suited to offer the best service. To get started, you can view the Hoedspruit properties for sale on our website and reach out to our team at your convenience," he says.