Simbithi Eco Estate celebrated 20 years as a premier gated community on the North Coast of KZN in April of this year, and according to Marc McClure, General Manager Simbithi Eco Estate “even when people decide to sell here, many choose to remain in Simbithi because of the social cohesion, the sense of community and the amenities that cater to all ages”.
“Simbithi also benefits from an ideal positioning regarding the proximity to King Shaka International Airport, the town of Ballito itself and easy access to the Big 5 game reserves further north. Added to all this we had a great masterplan, which we not only stuck to, we also evolved it”.” Adds McClure.
“A crucial factor that is exceptionally relevant in this estate is the long-term efficiency of the Homeowners Association”, adds Rory Anderson from Local Real Estate who has been a resident of Simbithi Eco Estate for 9 years. During this time Rory has sold and rented houses for 8 years, has worked very hard to integrate himself wholeheartedly into the community whilst living amongst his buyers and sellers, and for the past 5 consecutive years Rory has attained back to back, the No 1 Sales Position in Simbithi Eco Estate - a truly phenomenal standout feat!
“In addition to the holistic upgrades and keeping on top of the infrastructure maintenance at Simbithi which is essential to continually attract new potential buyers, continues Anderson. “I have also seen the effects that this forward-thinking approach has had on property prices. “When I first started selling here the entry point for a freehold home was R 5 million and today this same home’s entry point would be R 7.5 million. The same trend has emerged with vacant land and sectional title which would have been below R 2 million for land, that now starts at R 3 million and the sectional title would have been R4 million for an entry point which today sells for R 5.5 million. “
“The big improvements I have seen over the past few years are all the community centres and all the entry gates have been upgraded, the Sport Centre is now being improved, the architectural style has been allowed to encompass modern aspects both with respect to eco-friendly materials and an easy indoor/outdoor design arrangement, and every year a section of the golf course is also reconstructed and enhanced. By managing all these aspects continuously, the long-term space needs and assets remain relevant to the communities they serve but I also find that this estate has a multi-generational and pet friendly focus which also keeps Simbithi popular” concludes Anderson.
Over the past three years the total annual sales figures for Simbithi Eco Estate has ranged between R 700 million up to nearly a R billion, and of this this figure Local Real Estate have enjoyed market share of up to R 33%, with the latest figure being 20% of the total market share.
Although rooted in a strong vision, Simbithi Eco Estate has stayed ahead of the curve by remaining flexible with its masterplan, thereby ensuring it remains environmentally sensitive, market-responsive, and nurtures the lifestyle of its residents. This proactive approach continues to secure its competitive edge.