Crime Not the Driving Force Behind Sales of Gated Estates in the Western Cape

Exclusive housing communities date back to ancient times when fortifications protected settlements from looters and invaders. Today, the appeal of gated estates has evolved far beyond security. According to Lightstone, South Africa is home to over 57,000 sectional title schemes and nearly 8,000 exclusive gated estates. In the Western Cape alone, 2,213 estates and 9,212 sectional title schemes reflect the growing appeal of estate living. 

The surge in demand for these exclusive estates is attributed not only to security but also to the province's natural beauty, premium lifestyle offerings, and well-managed municipalities. With Cape Town being named the world's best city by TIME OUT for 2025-after securing second place in 2024-the region continues to attract discerning buyers looking for an unparalleled living experience. 

Hout Bay: A Lifestyle Haven for High-End Buyers 

Hout Bay, a picturesque seaside enclave within Cape Town, is renowned for its breathtaking views and exclusive estates. Lindsay Goodman, Principal at Christie's International Real Estate Hout Bay, notes that the area is home to approximately 15 luxury lifestyle estates, with property prices starting at R7.5 million, reaching as high as R32 million. "Hout Bay offers an exceptional return on investment due to its proximity to Camps Bay, Clifton, and Cape Town's inner city. International buyers, in particular, are drawn to the area's equestrian estate, where our latest sale-a two-bedroom cottage-fetched R8 million," she adds. 

Kommetjie: Affordable Coastal Estate Living 

On the edge of the South Peninsula, Kommetjie presents a more affordable entry point into gated community living. Storm McLennan, Sales Manager for Greeff Christie's South Peninsula, highlights that Kommetjie features nine estates, with homes ranging from an entry-level R1.1 million to R25 million for premium beachfront properties. "Lock-up-and-go convenience is a significant factor driving sales in Kommetjie. Many international homeowners purchase here as holiday residences, returning to Europe for the summer months," says McLennan. Over the past year, 155 properties in Kommetjie have changed hands, with an average sales price of just over R5 million, according to Property24 data. 

Somerset West: A Versatile Market for Families and Retirees 

Somerset West, often regarded as the gateway to the Cape Winelands, offers a diverse range of estate living options. The area boasts 20 estates, with sectional title properties starting at R1.2 million and top-tier luxury estates exceeding R20 million.  

The upper quartile of the market starts at R 8 000 000, however entry level sectional title units start at a price of R1.2 million and free standing homes with ample living space are available under the R6 million mark, says Rudo Kirsten, Principal of Greeff Christie's in Somerset West. In 2024 alone, 771 sales were recorded within estates and sectional schemes, reinforcing the area's popularity among families, retirees, and investors alike. 

Stellenbosch & Franschhoek: The New Tech & Investment Hub 

While Stellenbosch remains a historical university town, it is fast transforming into the Western Cape's technology hub. Student accommodation dominates the sectional title market, offering investors lucrative opportunities with guaranteed future returns. On the upper end, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek attract high-net-worth buyers drawn to the scenic surroundings, world-class wineries, and lower crime rates. Aimee Campbell, Head of Greeff Christie's Winelands portfolio, notes that Franschhoek boasts eight exclusive lifestyle estates where 40% of buyers are aged between 50 and 65, with a further 20% over 65. 

Arabella and the Whale Coast: A Coastal Paradise 

Affluent buyers continue to invest in Arabella, one of South Africa's premier golf estates, where properties range from R6.9 million to R15 million. Bhavinee Siepman, Executive Sales Consultant for Greeff Christie's, explains that homes closer to the lagoon and those featuring modern design elements command the highest prices. 

Moving towards the Whale Coast, Jaco van der Merwe, Principal of Greeff Christie's Whale Coast, highlights that Gauteng buyers are particularly drawn to the region. "Kleinbaai's latest development offers entry-level homes at R1.8 million under a Plot & Plan scheme, attracting investors and retirees looking for affordability and security in an idyllic coastal setting," he adds. 

The Western Cape's gated estates are not merely a response to security concerns but a gateway to a luxurious lifestyle. As Mike Greeff, CEO of Greeff Christie's, notes, "It's time to think differently when buying into a lifestyle estate - it is not a prison; in the Western Cape, it is paradise." 

For those still prioritising security, gated estates in the Western Cape offer much more than safety-they represent a lifestyle investment, blending convenience, exclusivity, and the beauty of South Africa's most desirable locations. 

For more details on luxury estates in the Western Cape, visit www.greeff.co.za 

Author: Lindè Spencer 

Images:  

Franschhoek Estate