KZN FARM SALES NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER 2012

2012 has come and gone ! The market has rebounded off a very low base and generally the market has been more active than in the past three years.
Interest in farming properties has been active, particularly established cane farms. Farms in this segment have traded between R30 – R60 000 per hectare depending on farm quality, distance to the mill etc.

With less and less arable land being available to the private sector due to government acquisition and land claims, the value of these farms is likely to increase unless the government runs with the Zimbabwean model.

Game farms sales have been buoyed by the poor rand and this market should continue and prosper as long as the rand keeps falling.

Smallholding sales have been stimulated once again by the Gauteng exodus factor and properties which have been on the market for years have sold much to the relief of tired sellers. There is still an available pool of quality properties in the Midlands going at very much reduced prices that still need to sell, before we see any upward movement in smallholding values. Those hanging in there for an unrealistic price will be there in 5 years time. Buyers in this market are looking for value for money properties. Smallholdings are generally there for the affluent who can afford the country lifestyle, aspirant farmers or those wanting space for a home business.

Long term these properties will appreciate as the Department of Agric are not releasing any more land for subdivision.

The market for land and property in the Durban – Pietermaritzburg corridor has been very firm as the new container terminal at Cato Ridge looks like it is going to happen.
Anything on the N3 or close to it have realised excellent prices and as the developments start coming out of the ground these values will rise.

We would like to thank all who have supported us this year and wish everyone a joyous festive season and God’s blessing for 2013.