Stilbaai : a Slice of Retirement Paradise

Stilbaai : a Slice of Retirement Paradise

Category Property News

Safe and peaceful neighbourhoods, with pollution-free stretches of long white sandy beaches as far as the eye can see – If this sounds like the ideal place to retreat to, you are not alone. Recent statistics show a popular trend among South African retirees, and indicated that they have largely contributed to the increasing demand for retirement accommodation along the Western Cape coastline.

With 35% of residential properties in the province being purchased by buyers over the age of 65 in 2016, research by Lightstone showed that an accumulative number of luxury and super luxury properties were being snapped up by buyers in this age group. 

Found along the ever popular Garden Route, the charming village of Stilbaai or ‘Still Bay’- nestled between the Goukou River, stunning Blue Flag beaches and an impressive estuary – is the ideal destination for anyone looking to sink in to a more laidback style of living.  For those enchanted by the tranquillity found in this harmonious town, it has kept on growing in popularity as a retirement village and holiday resort for nearly two centuries.

All the necessary services residents would expect are easily accessible, from reliable 24/7 medical services, modern retail facilities and grocers, to an abundance of must-try eateries, cafes and restaurants.Special attractions in the area include; numerous hiking and walking trails in one of the many nature reserves or along the shore flower routes, the renowned Blombos Caves, seasonal whale watching, as well as feeding tame hand-fed eels.

Although the town is developing rapidly, its natural environment is strictly protected and commercial interests are well maintained.

House sales in Stilbaai and surrounding suburbs have shown steady growth, with the average cost of properties sold having increased in value from 2014 (R1 115 000 average selling price) to 2016  (R1 275 000), with a noteworthy increase of 14.35%  in two years.

Recently, the market has seen an influx of buyers who fall in the 50-64 year age bracket at 42% and from the 65 and upwards age group at 27.5% - while buyers between the ages of 55 and 65 drive most of the coastal property sales, and represent the most influential demographic.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Reality has spectacular residential homes in Stilbaai, these properties are ideal as buy-to-let investments during the holiday period, or perfect retirement residences. Currently on the market is a 3 bedroom dream home listed at R2 735 000, a perfect choice for the most discerning buyer. Built on a 5.4Ha piece of land, this property combines luxury with family and functional living - featuring an indoor braai, a lovely boma entertainment area – created with comfort in mind.

Not only does Lew Geffen Sotheby’s offer a wide variety of residential property solutions, but they also have many sought-after vacant stands listed, ready for you to build your retirement dream home. One of these stands is a 29,526m²  vacant land situated in a private Fisantekraal Reserve, 2km from the sea listed at a mere R975,000 (R33 per m² ). Security is regulated by a professional game fence and security gate. Eland, Bontebok and local Bushbuck can be spotted roaming freely with unspoilt views of the ocean and flora. This one is a must for nature lovers looking for paradise.

Stilbaai is the complete package for buyers looking for investment properties or homes to retire in, with a steady growth in the market, coastal properties with a sea view, close proximity to the beach and amenities are always sound investments. A definite slice of retirement bliss.

Author: Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty