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With most people having been priced out of a parking space in Cape Town and surrounding neighbourhoods, two hotspots in the Cape Winelands are currently capturing the attention of property investors across the country, as well as those seeking a more plattelandse lifestyle.

Wellington and Malmesbury have recently become in vogue due to their attractive combination of affordability, natural beauty, and growth potential.

John Herbst, CEO of Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), reckons these areas represent compelling investment opportunities for folks wanting to escape the city or any of the other eight provinces.

Nestled at the base of the Groenberg Mountain, Wellington boasts scenic vineyards, rolling hills, and a quaint small-town ambience.

“While Wellington may be overshadowed by more renowned neighbours like Stellenbosch and Paarl, it offers an exceptional quality of life,” remarked Herbst.

Its slower pace of life and proximity to major urban centres make it particularly appealing to those seeking a blend of convenience and tranquillity. Moreover, Wellington hosts the historic Bovlei Winery, the second oldest in South Africa renowned for producing the world-famous Bains Whisky.

The town is also home to educational institutions such as the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s Wellington campus, along with top-tier primary and secondary schools.

“Education is a significant attraction. Families are drawn to areas offering excellent schooling options without the congestion of larger cities.”

From an investment standpoint, Wellington presents a compelling case with relatively affordable property prices compared to neighbouring areas like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, coupled with steady appreciation in value.

“Investors are increasingly recognizing the potential of Wellington’s real estate market,” Herbst emphasized.

“With ongoing development and infrastructure enhancements, we anticipate significant property value appreciation in the coming years.”

The government’s investment in the N7 highway has also transformed Malmesbury into a more accessible and attractive destination, said Herbst. With De Swartland Mall, a new Checkers, and the new Crestcare Hospital opening in August, Malmesbury has become an attractive option for people who don’t mind the 45-minute commute, which is about the same as living in Durbanville and travelling into town on the N1.

The famed Swartland wine region also offers a similar vibe to Stellenbosch, and an R2.3 million Victorian family home with a wrap-around stoep in Malmesbury does seem more attractive than an R4.4 million 2-bedroom apartment in Kenilworth.

“The wine industry’s growth has a ripple effect on the local economy.”

“There’s a burgeoning interest in agri-tourism and related business opportunities, making Malmesbury a strategic investment choice.”

“We’re seeing a mix of young families, retirees, and entrepreneurs moving to Malmesbury. The combination of scenic beauty, a tight-knit community, and affordability is a powerful draw.”

There’s also a growing push towards sustainable living and eco-friendly developments, with Wellington and Malmesbury being well-positioned to cater to this demand.

“The natural environment and existing agricultural practices in these areas align well with sustainable living initiatives. Investors are keen on projects that promote sustainability, which is another reason these areas are gaining traction.”

With an increasing number of people managing to ‘go remote’, the Cape Winelands offer several destinations near enough to Cape Town for city comforts, so now might be a good time to invest in Wellington and Malmesbury while they are still in boom-infancy.

[source:businesstech]