KeDezemba – how are you spending the festive season?

The festive season is here and it feels like we can all finally exhale. It’s out-of-office replies, it’s freshly cut grass and the smell of braai’s; and it’s: “You guys going away?” season. So… are you? Our VP of Brand, Carly Esterhuizen, shares her thoughts on where it's at in December 2023. 

I’ve spent the majority of my life as a Joburger and for us, Durbs was always our go-to getaway in December. It’s close enough that it doesn’t feel like a complete shlep to get to; the sea is warm and it’s just a vibe. These are also just some of the reasons why property in KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast is pumping. People want to live there too. According to Property Wheel, in the last 2 years, Ballito’s adult population has seen substantial growth of 106%, while Salt Rock has experienced a remarkable 117% increase. Umhlanga is establishing itself as one of South Africa's most dynamic and fastest-growing towns.

But there’s also something to be said about taking a stay-cation. I remember Decembers in Joburg with blissfully quiet roads and delicious summer days spent by the pool. The burbs of Joburg have also maintained popularity with property buyers. Bryanston, as an example, is and has for a long time been a high demand area – great schools, all the trendiest spots to eat and go out, close to hospitals and a good base to travel or visit other areas.

Some of us might even be lucky enough to travel abroad this December and experience a white Christmas in Europe, the UK or America.

Wherever you are and whatever your plans might be, I’m letting you know that you can actually do all of the above. Right from your Lilo or home office.

The Millennial is an Umhlanga based property available to invest in until 4 January on EasyProperties. The projected net rental yield on this is 10.19% - this quarterly rental income payout could be going towards your holiday this time next year! We’re also getting the property at a 5.4% discount on the market price.

The latest property, in Bryanston, is called Lallybrock. It’s around the corner from the larney Nicolway Shopping Centre and close to a variety of schools – including some of the most prestigious in our country. Just some of the reasons why Bryanston as an area, is in high demand. We’re getting this property at an 11.26% discount, meaning there’s even more opportunity for capital gains – you’re getting in lower than most. It’s also got an impressive net rental yield of 8.3%. This property is available until 4 February 2024.

And as for overseas trips, you can be a globetrotter at any time – easily access the US, UK, EUR and Australian markets in your EasyEquities account. Unlike actually travelling there, converting your money is a lot easier and for once, you could actually benefit from the weak rand. When you invest offshore you not only have the opportunity to earn capital gains on your investment. You also have the opportunity to have your money grow in a different currency, making your overall potential return even higher.

How are you spending the festive season? I hope with friends and family and people who count. And whether you’re homebound or already at your holiday destination, know that there are no boundaries to how far your investing journey can take you. You never have to put in leave and there’s always something new to see, place to go or thing to do.