While freestanding homes still dominate the residential landscape across Garden Route towns, demand for apartments is growing steadily, with new developments finally entering the market, says Gail Rimbault, licensee for Seeff Knysna.
Sectional title complexes offer more accessible price points for buyers and investors, she said.
“They’re particularly attractive for their lock-up-and-go convenience and low maintenance, usually managed by a Body Corporate. This makes them ideal for holiday homes or for buyers downsizing to the coast.
Rimbault noted that while retirees and holiday home buyers continue to make up a significant portion of the market, rental demand – both long-term and short-term – is also rising sharply.
Many investors are purchasing holiday units with the intent of generating rental income when not in use, leveraging the region’s strong seasonal tourism.
The Garden Route remains one of South Africa’s top holiday destinations, drawing heavy foot traffic over weekends, school holidays, and especially during the summer season.
Despite this, sectional title properties still make up a small portion of overall housing stock in most Garden Route towns.
According to Lightstone data, Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay lead with 15% each, followed by Knysna at 10% and George at just 6%.
Prices for apartments typically start above R2 million, with luxury units commanding even higher premiums.
Sectional Title Property Snapshot – Garden Route
| Town | ST Stock % | Avg. ST Price | Avg. Luxury ST Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mossel Bay | 15% | R2 million | R3.6m – R3.8m |
| Plettenberg Bay | 15% | R2.9 million | R5 million |
| Knysna | 10% | R1.5m – R2m | R4 million |
| George | 6% | R1.6 million | R3.9 million |
Source: Seeff / Lightstone
Although sectional title accounts for just 10% of Knysna’s housing stock, it made up around 20% of total sales in the past year-highlighting the high demand for compact, low-maintenance units in the town.
Apartments are increasingly popular for both primary living and holiday rentals, including Airbnb.
Developers are responding to this trend with new offerings like the Seahorse development in Knysna, which Rimbault says is a welcome addition to the market.
The Seahorse offers 35 modern units with one or two bedrooms, private braai balconies, secure parking, inverters, and Wi-Fi.
The complex includes a heated swimming pool and sun deck, with prices starting at R1.75 million for one-bedroom units and R2.325 million for two-bedrooms. No transfer duty is payable.
These apartments are drawing interest from a diverse range of buyers—from retirees and downscalers to investors looking for holiday homes or short-term rental income.