Retirement - a time to travel, catch up on those hobbies, or sit back and relax. You finally get to choose where you live without worrying about work, children, or schools. Consider Wilderness, an area that has captured the hearts of retirees for generations. According to Ockert Hoffman, Managing Agent at Century 21 George, the area's sandy beaches, amenities, and tranquil lifestyle is ideal to make the most of your golden years.
Wilderness is a top choice for retirees
According to Property24's Wilderness trends and statistics, the area is seeing much interest from those close to retirement or already in that stage. In the last six months, more than 50% of buyers and current owners are aged 50 and over.
"Wilderness is popular as it offers a quiet, relaxing setting with many outdoor activities available," says Hoffman. "It is also a good investment opportunity with a close-knit community."
According to Hoffman, Wilderness is even attracting an overseas market. Foreign retirees are flocking to the area as it offers a wholesome lifestyle with good investment opportunities, and a temperate climate.
Wilderness is an ideal lockdown destination
COVID-19 and the lockdowns have emerged as one of the biggest real estate trends. If you're looking for a place to weather the pandemic, Hoffman says Wilderness is a good option.
"Wilderness is located in close proximity to the sea and has wide open areas for walking and getting out. This, at least, allows a retiree to be able to get out and about on the beach, in forests, and in general areas. If the basic COVID-19 protocols are followed, they will be sure to still enjoy the outdoors."
Reasons to consider a Wilderness retirement
When looking for a retirement area, you should factor in safety and security, proximity to health care facilities, tranquillity, activities, and a supportive community. Hoffman says Wilderness ticks all these boxes.
It is a paradise town on the Garden Route, offering everything you could want in a lifestyle for your later years. Although George is seen as the business hub, it is a mere 14 kilometres away from Wilderness.
No matter where you live in Wilderness, there are breathtaking views of forests, lakes, mountains and coastlines. It is renowned for its beaches and lagoon systems. You have a Blue Flag swimming beach as well as beaches where you can walk your dogs on and off-leash. There are spectacular viewing points to watch the dolphins and migrating whales. You have the well known Kaaimans River that offers scenic canoeing. Fishing enthusiasts have many perfect locations to enjoy their passion.
There are many established hiking trails that offer incredible views and stunning fauna and flora. It is a popular bird-watching location. Wilderness is known for its environmentally friendly attitude.
Wilderness has a very close community that look out for each other. The local municipality is efficient and keeps the area clean and safe. There are markets on Saturday and Sundays that are well supported by both locals and holidaymakers. Wilderness is renowned for its amazing restaurants. The area also has its own nature reserve where the elderly can go for walks or picnics whilst absorbing the wonderful climate and views.
Best suburbs to retire in Wilderness
Wilderness retirees are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a property. According to Hoffman, the area boasts retirement villages in Hoekwil and exclusive stand-alone homes in Wilderness Central and Wilderness Heights. You can even find a property with a B&B for extra income. For those interested in vast open spaces, there are farms and large stands in Hoekwil, Rondevlei, Wilderness Heights, Langvlei Dunes and other surrounding areas to the town.
Popular suburbs for retirement include Wilderness Central, Wilderness Heights, Hoekwil, Rondevlei, Langvlei Dunes, and Kleinkrantz.
Tips for retiring in Wilderness
To make the right decision, Hoffman refers back to the old adage: location, location, location. He advises potential retiree homebuyers to visit Wilderness and get a feel for each suburb. Hoffman also encourages potential homeowners to make a list of their preferences including:
- Erf and floor size
- Large or small home
- Extra income generating
- Ocean front
- Ocean views
- Lagoon or river frontage/views
- Forest views
- Stand alone
- Retirement village or complex
- Centre of town or surrounding areas
Choosing between buying or renting is often a tough decision for retirees. Hoffman suggests the following:
"It's often advisable to rent until you find the location you are looking for. However, if you are looking to supplement your income with a B&B, there are stunning B&Bs that have become available to purchase in prime Wilderness locations.
"We find the norm to be that first-time visitors want to rent before they buy. However, due to Wilderness's popularity as a holiday or vacation location, many people know exactly what their requirements are and therefore prefer to buy instead of pay rent."
Retire with a Wilderness property expert
To help secure your future, Hoffman says retirees should partner with Century 21 George's SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.™ property professionals.
"We work closely with you to find out what is important to you in your retirement years. We will look for Wilderness properties that fit this need. We will introduce you to the area and the points of interest. Our team also takes pleasure in suggesting groups to belong to, activities to join, and places to visit that allows you to get to know the community in no time at all."
To find your next home for your senior years, view our Wilderness properties for sale or to let, and contact us today.