Retirement estate living in South Africa is on the rise, as retirees increasingly seek properties that offer security, a quality lifestyle, and a solid return on investment. Lightstone Property notes that 44 000 properties owned by over-60s are found in formal retirement villages. While such retirement estates are a good option, Barto van der Merwe, Managing Director of Renishaw Property Developments, says there are several factors to consider.
“Retirement should be a time of enjoyment, ease and security,” says van der Merwe. “When making this investment, buyers need to consider what’s truly included—not just in the home itself, but in the lifestyle, amenities, and added value that comes with it.”
He has shared a helpful checklist of 7 key things to consider before investing in a retirement property:
1. What does the levy cover?
“Start by understanding the monthly levy – not just the amount, but what it includes. An all-inclusive levy means that you’re actually saving on monthly costs, making this a much more affordable long-term investment,” says Van der Merwe. “It also means that everyday maintenance items are covered, so that you can relax during your retirement years.”
All-inclusive levies can cover:
· 24-hour security
· Fibre optic Wi-Fi
· Building insurance
· External home maintenance
· Use of communal facilities
· Services like garden refuse removal, postal collection, and transport
“Where levies are structured in this way, residents avoid the stress of unexpected costs and the need for additional monthly service fees. It’s also important to inquire about special levies, although in newly built estates, these are highly unlikely.”
2. Is there home-based care?
Healthcare is critical in retirement living, but Van der Merwe says the modern trend is shifting away from traditional frail care centres toward home-based healthcare, as residents want to remain in the comfort of home: “This offers dignified, customised support while allowing residents to remain independent and comfortable in their own homes. Consider whether the retirement estate has easily accessible and quality healthcare, including preventative care and rehabilitation services designed to promote longevity and overall wellness.”
3. What are the opportunities for fitness?
Studies continue to show that physical fitness is one of the best ways for retirees to remain active and healthy. Van der Merwe says that retirement estates should include a variety of opportunities for fitness, ranging from gentle walks in nature to more active sports.
Residents should look for:
· A swimming pool for low-impact exercise
· Nature trails for walking or jogging
· Nearby beaches that encourage movement and relaxation
· Nearby golf courses for regular play
· Sports facilities for active engagement
4. What are the security features?
“True peace of mind comes from knowing your environment is secure,” says Van der Merwe. “Top retirement estates should offer comprehensive yet unobtrusive security.”
Security features to look for:
· Electrified perimeter fencing
· 24-hour patrolling security
· High-tech camera systems
· Fast emergency response times
· Integration with local law enforcement and community policing
5. What is the potential for value growth?
Retirement homes are often a last property investment for many, which is why Van der Merwe suggests looking at the potential growth in value of this investment: “On an established retirement estate, investors can look at comparative properties to discover how much the property has increased in value over the years. At Renishaw Hills, we’ve seen properties increase in value by 60% in just six years – a solid return on investment.”
6. Where is the property based?
Location is everything when it comes to retirement living, with more and more retirees heading to the KZN coast for the subtropical climate and lifestyle. Van der Merwe says to look at the proximity to retail centres, healthcare facilities, and local attractions as well when buying.
7. What’s included in the sale?
“Investing in a retirement home means knowing what comes standard. Investors need to look for quality-built homes with energy-efficient design and modern fittings that actually last,” notes Van der Merwe. “An often-overlooked factor is gardens – an established indigenous garden adds significant value to a home when considering the high cost of landscaping.”
He says, with modern retirees being more connected than ever, fibre optic internet is a must: “Many retirees are working part-time, managing investments, connecting with family overseas and using streaming services, which makes reliable fibre optic internet essential. Ensure the estate has fast, uninterrupted connectivity to meet these increasingly internet-reliant needs.”
For retirees seeking value, lifestyle, and long-term peace of mind, Renishaw Hills delivers on all fronts. This mature lifestyle estate in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast ticks all the boxes for investors, with Phase 7 properties now on sale.
Get in touch!
Far from being just an active retirement community, Renishaw Hills in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast is a premier mature lifestyle estate for individuals over 50, offering a vibrant lifestyle. For more details about Renishaw Hills or to arrange a tour, contact Kelly at 064 198 2693, email sales@renishawhills.co.za, or visit www.renishawhills.co.za. Check out the available units at Renishaw Hills: https://renishawhills.co.za/available-units/.
