Future trends of secure estates

IN RECENT years, lifestyle residential estates have emerged as sought-after havens for homebuyers worldwide and, like all real estate sectors, trends continue to evolve, especially at the top end of the market where buyer needs and expectations are high.

David Burger and Stephan Thomas, the Secure Estate specialist team for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, say we can anticipate the following trends:

On-demand services and concierge:

We may see the integration of advanced AI-powered concierge services, virtual assistants and personalised lifestyle management platforms that cater to individual preferences and needs.

Leisure and entertainment experiences:

We can expect the integration of immersive technologies, virtual reality experiences and curated cultural events that offer unparalleled entertainment within the estate.

Smart homes and integrated technologies:

The fast-approaching digital future will witness more advanced technologies, such as voice-controlled interfaces, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, offering residents a seamless and personalised living experience.

Sustainability and green living:

As environmental awareness grows, so does the emphasis on sustainability within lifestyle residential estates.

Seeff adds that the Cape metro is increasingly also going to be seen as a new hub for head offices, and services including technology, with Amazon, for instance, moving in.

Ross Levin, the licensee for Seeff Atlantic Seaboard and City Bowl, says that for example, there is a strong influx of semigration buyers to the coastal suburbs.

While the buyers were traditionally from the Gauteng and inland areas, they are also coming from the KZN region.

International buyers have also invested heavily in property during the first few months of the year, says Levin.

This includes Russian and European buyers (especially from Germany, the UK and Netherlands) who are looking for alternative markets to invest in while the Russian-Ukraine war continues.

It is not just sales The rental market is also exceptionally strong in Cape Town, boosted by inward demand, says Seeff.

We will see a greater emphasis on eco-conscious designs, carbon-neutral initiatives and a focus on harmonising with nature.

Wellness and health-oriented amenities:

We will probably see the integration of advanced health technologies, personalised wellness programmes, and access to specialised health-care services within the estate.

Co-living spaces and community collaboration:

A growing trend in lifestyle estates is the incorporation of co-living spaces and collaborative communities. The future will witness the evolution of these communities, with increased emphasis on shared experiences, co-creation of amenities, and platforms that foster collaboration and social engagement.

Integrated WFH facilities:

We’re seeing the integration of dedicated co-working spaces, highspeed internet connectivity, video conferencing facilities, and flexible office solutions within the estate, which help create an ideal work-life balance for residents, combining productivity and convenience