Words: Candice Botha | Images: Stephen Pilbrough
Just north of Ballito, Salt Rock was always a tiny, sleepy seaside hamlet and it still retains that laid-back holiday vibe.
“Salt Rock is one of the best areas on the North Coast for dolphin viewing,” says Kerry Bailey, principal, Tyson Properties Umhlanga and Ballito. “It still has heaps of character and a wild feel to it, a safe rock pool and snorkelling spots.”
No longer so sleepy, however, the area is home to three of the flagship North Coast estates – Brettenwood Coastal Estate, Simbithi Eco-Estate and Dunkirk Estate, as well as several smaller estates which are also proving popular with buyers.
“Properties in the Salt Rock area range from R3,5m to R15m for free-standing houses, R2,1m to R5,5m for units, and land sells from R1,1m, depending on whether it is a residential or development stand. Our listings range currently is R2,2m to R7,8m for the area,” says Karen Brown, office manager, Just Property Ballito.
Bailey adds that the area remains popular with holidaymakers and therefore beachside apartments are in demand. “Sectional-title beachfront apartments start at R2m and penthouse units sell for R10m upwards,” she notes.
With a variety of property available, the area attracts a range of buyers, both permanent residents and holidaymakers. “The area lends itself to people who want to retire, people who want to start anew by relocating to the area for business purposes, and young people. Investors will also be pleased to invest in this area with all the development taking place,” says Brown. Buy to let and buy to sell remain popular investment options in the area, particularly in estates.
A drawback for the North Coast has always been the lack of schools. However, with the establishment of several new independent schools in the area, including Curro Mount Richmore in Salt Rock itself, the area is attracting more and more families who wish to take advantage of the wonderful lifestyle for children and security offered by estate living. More commercial development including a new Checkers shopping centre means that a lack of amenities is also no longer a concern.
