INVESTOR BUYERS ON THE RISE IN KZN: A TREND WORTH WATCHING

For a while now, the Western Cape has worn the crown when it comes to investor activity in residential property. With investor purchases accounting for as much as 35% of ooba homeloans' bond applications in the region, it's long been the go-to hotspot for those looking to turn property into profit.

But things are shifting - and KwaZulu-Natal is starting to make a name for itself.

In recent months, we've seen a noticeable uptick in investor buyers entering the KZN market.  According to ooba Homeloans data, ooba KZN investment purchases represented 5.42% of the total homeloan applications in the region in February 2024, and that has increased sharply to 10.88%, as of April 2025, showing growing confidence in investing in property in our region.  The recent interest rate cut is only expected to accelerate this trend.

Adding to the traditional drivers for investment properties is the growing appetite for short-term holiday rentals and the rising popularity of hotel-style apartment living, particularly in key urban and coastal areas.

This marks a meaningful shift in investor sentiment. Buyers are no longer focused solely on long-term tenants or traditional suburban homes. Instead, there's strong interest in flexible, lifestyle-focused properties that can cater to both tourists and travelling professionals. In prime locations such as Umhlanga, Ballito, and Durban's beachfront precincts, well-managed sectional title units are being snapped up for their income potential and low-maintenance appeal.

As letting experts, Wakefields continues to experience high demand and low stock levels for rental properties, especially in secure complexes and estates; with no signs of this trend slowing down.

At the same time, the growing demand for short-term lets is driving up the value of properties that cater to this niche. Whether it's a weekend getaway pad, a lock-up-and-go bachelor unit, or a sleek apartment in a mixed-use development, investor preferences are shifting, and KZN is firmly on the radar.

We're encouraged by this trend. It signals renewed confidence in our local market and presents exciting opportunities for buyers, developers, and homeowners alike. If you've been considering an investment property, now may be the perfect time to explore what KZN has to offer.

Whether you're buying your first investment property or expanding your portfolio, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Let's talk property. Let's talk potential. Let's talk KZN.