Coastal living has seen a significant uptick in recent years, driven by the increasing popularity of remote work and enhanced service delivery. This trend is reflected in the latest Lightstone Residential Property Indices Report, which reveals that annual property inflation in coastal areas has reached 6%, significantly outpacing the 2% rate seen in non-coastal regions.
Milnerton, a coastal town on Table Bay, has emerged as a prime option for those seeking the quintessential seaside lifestyle, says Tamara Nettmann, Broker Owner, Principal Director, and Co-Founder of Century 21 Western Seaboard.
Why Milnerton is making waves
Between 2019 and 2023, the Property Market Report Western Cape 2024 shows property sales in the Western Cape ranged between R100 000 and 20 million, increasing the provincial sales share from 23% to 27%. According to Nettmann, Milnerton is one of the areas capturing strong interest, thanks to its appeal. “With its prime location on the Atlantic coast, Milnerton offers stunning views of Table Mountain and easy access to Cape Town CBD,” she says. “Buyers are attracted to its balance of urban convenience and tranquil coastal living.”
“With the development of areas like Century City nearby, Milnerton has grown in popularity due to its proximity to major commercial hubs, excellent schools, and amenities like shopping centres, beach-side restaurants, and sports facilities,” adds Nettmann. “The area's diverse property options, from family homes to modern apartments, cater to a wide range of buyers.”
The best suburbs in Milnerton
On the lower end of the market, buyers and investors can find a two-bedroom apartment for R1,100,000 in Burgundy Estate or opt for a luxury 11-bedroom house for R16,900,000 in Sunset Beach.
“Choosing the right neighbourhood is crucial when considering a property purchase in Milnerton,” advises Nettmann. “Each area offers its unique charm and amenities, so it's important to identify your priorities and lifestyle needs.” Here are her top choices:
- Milnerton Proper: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it offers larger homes with spacious gardens, access to top schools, and proximity to Milnerton Beach and Lagoon. It's ideal for families looking for a slow-living suburban lifestyle while still being close to the conveniences of the city.
- Woodbridge Island: A gated community with beachfront properties, Woodbridge Island offers security, scenic beauty, direct beach access, and Milnerton Golf Club for avid players. Its tranquil environment is perfect for those who love coastal living, with great views of the ocean and lagoon.
- Royal Ascot: This modern, well-planned suburb is popular for its mix of townhouses and apartments, with an emphasis on a secure, lifestyle-driven environment. It appeals to young professionals and families who want a secure estate with easy access to amenities.
- Sunset Beach: Famous for its luxurious beachfront homes, Sunset Beach offers exclusivity, privacy, and direct beach access. It's a favourite among kite surfers and those seeking high-end coastal living.
- Century City: As a hub of commercial and residential activity, Century City offers modern apartments, vibrant retail options like Canal Walk, and access to world-class business and leisure facilities. Its appeal lies in its urban lifestyle with a touch of nature, thanks to its green spaces.
With its diverse properties, Milnerton offers something for everyone. Nettmann says this is shaping what is becoming a vibrant market. “There has been a noticeable increase in demand for lock-up-and-go apartments, especially among young professionals and investors, as Milnerton’s central location appeals to commuters.
“Eco-friendly homes and energy-efficient features are becoming more prominent due to rising energy costs. Eco-conscious buyers and renters will have plenty of options that appeal to their green values and minimise utility expenses.
“Property values have also benefited from improvements in infrastructure and public transport options like the MyCiTi bus system, which offers easy connections to other parts of Cape Town.
“Additionally, the market has seen stable growth in rental yields, making it attractive for buy-to-let property investors,” she says.
Tips for keen Milnerton homebuyers
Ready to dive into the Milnerton property market? Nettmann shares some essential tips to guide your homebuying journey:
- Know the area: Each suburb has its own unique character, so consider your lifestyle needs — whether it’s proximity to schools, access to beaches, or a more central location.
- Consider the long-term: Property values in Milnerton have shown steady growth, making it a good investment, but always consider your future needs.
- Be aware of transport links: If you rely on public transport, check how close your chosen property is to MyCiTi routes or main roads.
- Watch out for hidden costs: Be sure to factor in costs for levies or maintenance fees, particularly if you're considering a property in an estate or complex.
- Energy efficiency: With rising energy costs, consider properties with energy-saving features like solar panels or insulation.
"While these tips will come in handy, the advice is to seek the real estate services of a qualified local area expert,” says Nettmann. “Their knowledge of the market can make all the difference in finding the perfect home for you."
Go with Century 21 Western Seaboard
In Milnerton, Century 21 Western Seaboard has built a reputation as the top real estate agency in the area due to its in-depth local knowledge and personalised service. “We have an award-winning team of experienced agents who understand the nuances of the local property market,” says Nettmann. “In this way, we can guide clients through every step of the buying and selling process.”
Century 21 Western Seaboard has consistently taken the title as multi-year top sales performer nationally within the Century 21 group and Nettmann chalks this up to their strong service offering. “We pride ourselves on our strong client relationships, attention to detail, and extensive marketing reach, ensuring that buyers and sellers get the best possible outcomes,” she highlights. “If you’re ready to get the keys to your new home, view our properties for sale or to let and reach out to our team.”