house, ± 584 m² Fantastic oppertunity for first time home buyers, lovely little starter home.

house, 473 1 Garage and 1 Carport for the first time home buyers.

terraced house, 249 m² A perfect lock up and go. 3 Bed 2 bath duplex unit with small garden and single garage. Open plan living area - cute little kitchen. Perfect for investor or first time home buyer!!

house, alarm, terrace Ideal for first time home buyers. Beautiful view over mountain and green-belt. Open plan living area, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, patio & garage

house, 1672 m² STARTER HOME A solid home and a large treed stand. A good starter home for the first time buyer.

house Perhaps the most adorable home, showing so much potential. Ideal for the first-time home buyers ... 2 Large sunny bedrooms both fitted with carpet flooring and cupboards. / Full family bathroom / Adorable kitchen with build in stove / Open-plan living area / Garden that the animals can play / Auto Single garage / Security: alarm system ADT, burglar bars and safety gates

semi-detached house A Victorian Style decorated 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, small laundry room semi-detached home for sale. A bargain as it comes with a garage. In a very peaceful, quiet road with easy access in and out of Cape Town, perfect for a first time home buyer. Erf extent 147 square meters. ... 3 bedrooms / kitchen (BIC) / 1 bathroom / 1 small laundry room / 1 Lounge / Garage / courtyard

house Greek Style Complex - COME ON FIRST TIME BUYERS HERE'S YOUR HOME!!!!! IDEAL STARTER ... Lounge / Dining room / 2 Beds / 1 Bath / 1 Parking / Garden Unit

house Perhaps the most adorable home, showing so much potential. Ideal for the first-time home buyers Property size: ±247m² Dwelling size: ±90m² Rates: ±R280p/m ... ● 2 sunny bedrooms, both fitted with carpet flooring / ● Full family bathroom / ● Adorable open-plan kitchen (stove included) / ● Open-plan lounge with glass doors leading out onto exterior / ● Neat, well-loved garden / ● Single garage with direct access / / Security : alarm system and burglar bars

house This cozy and adorable family home in secure Complex is just what you need if you are a first time buyer or a retired couple. Make this home your own. This home offers you 3 bedrooms, a drying yard, double garage and a small patio. ... Lounge / dining room / 3 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms / kitchen / double garage / patio

house Quaint cottage in the heart of nature.. Charming two bedroom cottage with cosy lounge, well-fitted open-plan kitchen and one bathroom. Separate bedroom/study off courtyard. Small manageable garden at the front of the property. Ideal home for first time buyers or holiday home. Property Features Garden Courtyard. http://www.arkadia.com/zpoc-t354886/

house Take advantage of this great opportunity and view this comfortable older home in established area and is a great buy for the first time buyers or retired couple. ... Lounge / dining room / braai room / 3 bedrooms / 2 bathrooms / kitchen / air conditioner / alarm system

semi-detached house This two bedroom semi is located on a quiet street and provides a blank canvas for first time buyers or investors to create a warm family home. The property has it's original wooden floors and high ceilings. Further possibilities for renovation and modernization exist to fully unlock this properties full potential and potentially add value. ... 2 Bedrooms / Lounge / Kitchen / Bathroom / Courtyard

house This superb secure home in a gated village is just what the first time buyer needs. It is a lock-up and go with two spacious bedrooms, large enclosed garden,with a wendyhouse & 2 parking bays. ... Lounge / dining room / kitchen / guest toilet / 1 Full bathroom / 2 spacious bedrooms / indoor braai room

house This is an ideal buy for the first time buyer or if you are scaling down. The Oaks is close to shopping centres, schools and the main routes. Come and make this your dream HOME! ... 2 Bedrooms from R 665 000-00 / 3 Bedrooms from R 715 000-00 / Gated Security Complex / Own title homes / Transfer cost, NHBRC Fees, Oven & Hob included

house, garage Walking distance to the cliffs. This beautifully remodelled 3-bedroom 2-bathroom home is conveniently situated for walks along the famous Whale-watching cliffs, while still within an easy walk of shops and restaurants. An easy to maintain garden Plus a lockable garage makes this a lovely lock-up-and-go home at the seaside at a really affordable price For first time buyers or even those contemplating retirement at the coast. Lifestyle Activities Coastal Hiking Amenities and Services Shops Property Features Garden Garage. http://www.arkadia.com/zpoc-t354066/

house, parking Wooden Starter Home.. This A-frame timber home is situated in rural surroundings and is north facing.Ideal property for first time buyers, has potential to add onto and expand. Comprising; three bedrooms, two bathrooms, main with en-suite. Secure off-street parking for two vehicles. Property backs onto the nature reserve. Lifestyle Activities Rural Amenities and Services Parking Property Characteristics North Facing Property Features Ensuite Off Street Parking. http://www.arkadia.com/zpoc-t354987/

house Private & secure home with staff accomodation. It is fully walled. 3 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS OFFICE AREA TV ROOM LOUNGE DINING ROOM ELO LAUNDRY POOL BRAAI AREA IRRIGATION Background Information Kimberley Although Kimberley remains heavily mining dependant, its local economy is increasingly diversifying. The Northern Cape generally is doing well on the strength of mining and agriculture and, to a lesser extent, tourism and this is benefiting all sectors of the regional economy. Different market segments are performing differently in Kimberley, with most of the action being below the R400 000 mark, but there is still good demand and reasonable volumes up to R850 000. Life is also being injected into the market by new developments in Hillcrest, Minerva Gardens and Royaldene, but the town layout does not lend itself to easy expansion and most types of stock are in short supply. The new Kimberley Mall on the south side has major retailers as anchor tenants. Also a new cement plant is planned for Postmasburg and Mittal Steel is expanding output at the Sishen iron ore mine which exports worldwide via Saldanha Bay on the Western Cape coast, all of which is expected to have positive spinoffs for local property. Affordability rather than location is dictating where first-time home buyers and investors purchase residential properties in Kimberly, on the back of five years of dramatic house price growth. Rising commercial activity in Kimberly has been partly responsible for the escalation in entry-level house prices at around R500 000. The city’s growing economy has also pushed up prices at the top end of the market, where it is no longer uncommon to find homes with price tags of R3 million and more. Kimberly’s rapid transition into a major commercial hub in the province in recent years has also seen demand for business premises escalate. This has impacted on former residential suburbs and stock levels since homes are now rapidly being converted into offices as demand for rental space outstrips supply. Among the key economic drivers of the city are an upswing in tourist volumes, a R50 million project by mining conglomerate De Beer’s to upgrade the “Big Hole” as a tourist attraction, along with the construction of a R44 million Protea Hotel adjacent to it, and a R64 million expansion of the Diamond Pavilion Shopping Complex. Some of the city’s valued land is also being utilised to build a R662 million medium security facility, all of which have undermined the city’s stocks of vacant land. In sought-after areas particularly, there are simply no vacant stands for development available any longer. As a result, former “grey areas” are no longer being shunned but are growing in status and popularity by those with limited spending power. Buyers with R500 000 to spend will qualify for a small, old-style home with wooden floors and pressed ceilings on a stand of up to 1000 sqm. These homes, which generally require renovation, tend to be found in suburbs such as Kimberley North, De Beers and West End. Those with higher affordability tend to head for the Memorial Road area, and in particular the streets of Carrington Way and Milner Street, which are within walking distance of the private and popular Christian Brothers College. To purchase an immaculate, original Victorian house on a stand of around 2 000 sqm buyers can expect to pay around R3 million. These prices were unheard of a few years ago, but are now well within reach - and being paid - by executives from the diamond and other industries. While top-end stock is relatively easy to come by, Kimberly is in serious need of sectional title developments and flats, owing to the suppressed affordability levels of first-time, middle market and investor buyers. Property in Kimberly is a superb investment but investors must realise their bond repayments are unlikely to be covered by rental incomes owing to ongoing property price growth which has outstripped the rental market. They are unlikely more than R3 000 a month for a two bedroom flat. Capitalising on the huge demand for residential rentals, Kimberly has seen a rapid increase in the number of home owners turning their garages and other outbuildings into bachelor pads. The rentals they are receiving are being used in many instances to supplement their bond repayments. Most of these tenants tend to be single people unable to afford to buy their own homes. DOUBLE GARAGE CHERRYWOOD KITCHEN

other, alarm, furnished That proverbial “cottage on the sea” is seemingly increasingly beyond the financial reach of most, as values on the coastline soar and buyers from abroad and locally snap up prime properties. The Garden Route is no exception to the overall trend, but addressing a distinct need for affordability is a new development in Sedgefield, between Knysna and Wilderness, where own title cluster homes are on the market for starting prices of R 995 000.00. Zeegesicht Place as the project is known comprises 22 cluster home options suitable for a broad range of buyers. Two types of three bedroom family homes are available with exceptional quality finishes. This is the eight development by the same group of backers – Circle Developers cc. Zeegesicht Place consists of 2 types of houses: Type A: A double storey unit that has 3 bedrooms and 2,5 bathrooms, with a double garage. (165 SQM.) Type B: A double storey unit that has 3 bedrooms, 2,5 bathrooms and a single garage (125 SQM.) The average stand size is 291 SQM. All houses are freehold stands (own title). All houses are situated in a lock-up and go secure development. The development has low monthly levies - approximately R250 per month Sedgefield-on-Sea is fast becoming one of the most sought-after areas for property investment. With rising land values, a small investment has the ability to return a small fortune in this quiet low -crime coastal village. “Zeegesicht Place should appeal to young professionals,retirees and local buyers looking for a secure holiday home with strong potential for appreciation in value,”said Schalk van der Merwe of Circle Developers. The scenic splendour, desirable climate and friendly community, coupled with the excellent return and limited development space attracts people who can identify a great investment. It’s time for you to secure your piece of this lifestyle. Get your foot in the door, this is your opportunity! http://www.arkadia.com/iplx-t2991/

house, 17500 m² Create your own paradise on 17 500 sqms of land & +- 1000 sqms of historicall buildings in the village & bordering the Nature Reserve. Price : R5,5 million excl VAT. Background Information : McGregor General Information ONE OF THE JEWELS of South Africa, the village of McGregor has been described as "the best preserved and most complete example of mid-nineteenth century townscape in the Cape Province". McGregor has become a weekend retreat and haven for artists in recent years and now offers a colourful selection of art galleries, guesthouses and quaint restaurants – only one and a half hours drive away from Cape Town. Its mild climate makes it one of the most delightful places to spend time during the southern hemisphere's "cold" months. Mainly dry, and generally balmy, McGregor's winters are charming. And in summer, the constant sunshine makes McGregor a great place to visit for a taste of African heat - in a civilised environment. Walk through its quiet streets, listen to the birds sing as you view the traditional whitewash thatched cottages, and you can really believe that this is a place where time has stood still. The many thatch-roofed 'Cape cottages' between fruit and vegetable gardens, are very well preserved and maintained. The 'Aesthetics Committee' of the village make sure that the dainty characters of the cottages are well preserved. Here life is slow, tranquil and gentle. Beautifully preserved white-washed cottages nestle in half wild gardens, water trickles and burbles down old stone irrigation channels Once a year, at the beginning of May, the "McGregor Unbelievably Festive Weekend" is celebrated. Then the surrounding vintners present their new wines in the hotels and guest houses of McGregor. The spirits are high and there is dancing and singing in the street. Property Market : A popular destination among home buyers, the rustic town of McGregor near Robertson in the Boland & Overberg region of the Western Cape, continues to draw a steady stream of buyers from around the country. Recently, a number of quality properties with sound investment potential have come onto the market. In the centre of the village an old Victorian three bedroom home set on a spacious 2000sq m is on the market for R1,5m, while the adjacent 2295sq m stand with 110 fruit trees is available for R950k. Plots are still very much in demand in McGregor, and another 4280sq m stand in Bree Street, on the market for R900k, is arousing interest among potential buyers. If a developer were to purchase property, there are stringent criteria to be met. The newly formed aesthetics committee is very strict and McGregor is one of the most well preserved 19th century villages in the Western Cape.

building plot, 13416 m² Development opportunity - 13 416 sqms of land in the Village bordering the Nature Reserve. You can subdivide it into e.g. 8 large sites - approximate value +- R4 million. Background Information : McGregor General Information ONE OF THE JEWELS of South Africa, the village of McGregor has been described as "the best preserved and most complete example of mid-nineteenth century townscape in the Cape Province". McGregor has become a weekend retreat and haven for artists in recent years and now offers a colourful selection of art galleries, guesthouses and quaint restaurants – only one and a half hours drive away from Cape Town. Its mild climate makes it one of the most delightful places to spend time during the southern hemisphere's "cold" months. Mainly dry, and generally balmy, McGregor's winters are charming. And in summer, the constant sunshine makes McGregor a great place to visit for a taste of African heat - in a civilised environment. Walk through its quiet streets, listen to the birds sing as you view the traditional whitewash thatched cottages, and you can really believe that this is a place where time has stood still. The many thatch-roofed 'Cape cottages' between fruit and vegetable gardens, are very well preserved and maintained. The 'Aesthetics Committee' of the village make sure that the dainty characters of the cottages are well preserved. Here life is slow, tranquil and gentle. Beautifully preserved white-washed cottages nestle in half wild gardens, water trickles and burbles down old stone irrigation channels Once a year, at the beginning of May, the "McGregor Unbelievably Festive Weekend" is celebrated. Then the surrounding vintners present their new wines in the hotels and guest houses of McGregor. The spirits are high and there is dancing and singing in the street. Property Market : A popular destination among home buyers, the rustic town of McGregor near Robertson in the Boland & Overberg region of the Western Cape, continues to draw a steady stream of buyers from around the country. Recently, a number of quality properties with sound investment potential have come onto the market. In the centre of the village an old Victorian three bedroom home set on a spacious 2000sq m is on the market for R1,5m, while the adjacent 2295sq m stand with 110 fruit trees is available for R950k. Plots are still very much in demand in McGregor, and another 4280sq m stand in Bree Street, on the market for R900k, is arousing interest among potential buyers. If a developer were to purchase property, there are stringent criteria to be met. The newly formed aesthetics committee is very strict and McGregor is one of the most well preserved 19th century villages in the Western Cape.

building plot, 600 m² DE KLOOF ESTATE Nestled in a valley minutes away from the centre of St. Helena Bay, De Kloof Estate offers prospective buyers a beautiful and optimally located setting in which to live. Just 140km away from Cape Town, this secure village estate promises to be a much sought-after residential development. One of the primary advantages of De Kloof Estate is inherent in its location high up in a St. Helena valley. Blessed with stunning ocean and mountain views, De Kloof Estate also enjoys protection from blustery winds, making it one of the most attractive places to live in the West Coast. Building guidelines for De Kloof Estate ensure that the beauty of the West Coast aesthetic is preserved for the benefit of its residents. For those who are not in a rush to build, there will be a generous time limit in which to construct on single residential stands. A total of 88 single residential stands with average size of 600m². The townhouse stands are reserved for plot and plan development. With a starting price of R289,000 for single residential stands, De Kloof Estate development is an excellent opportunity to enter in the Western Cape coastal property market. Whether as a holiday home or your permanent home for the future, De Kloof Estate offers the very best of West Coast living. Specs on Single Residential Stands: * Name : De Kloof Security Village Estate. * Location : St. Helena Bay, on West Coast, ± 140 km from Cape Town. * Security Estate with Single Entrance / Exit. * 88 Single residential stands with average size of 600m². * Transfer ± July 2006. * Single residential stands priced from R289,000, inclusive of all transfer & bond costs. * 10% Deposit secures; 90% Bonds available. * Building guidelines to ensure maintaining the standard of the development. * Ten year building time limit. Features : View : Hills, Ocean View, Panoramic Extra Features : Controlled Access Sewer/Water Systems : Public Water District

house, 600 m² 16 Exclusive dwellings (plot & plan) with spectacular mountain & sea views. Buy direct from developer from R1,35 million - only 7 left. Choose your own finishes. Houses sizes varies between 188 sq.m & 362 sq.m & plot sizes between 600 & 652 sq.m. Houses designed to be utilized by two or more families..... Hermanus Property Market : In the longer term Hermanus homes is expected to outperform most South African residential properties - for the simple reason that this stretch of coastline is recognised as being one of the four or five top holiday and retirement areas in South Africa. Property here, especially coastal property, will become increasingly scarce. This scarcity will be exacerbated by the new coastal development legislation that is designed to preserve coastal precincts considered scenically beautiful and/or ecologically sensitive. Prime properties in sought after Hermanus in the Western Cape are fetching excellent prices with several prime seafront properties sold at prices ranging from R10.5 million to R12.5 million. In nearby Onrus a top price of R5.8 million has been achieved for a seaside property. There is a definite shift from a strong seller’s market to a rapidly emerging buyer’s and rental market. The recent interest rate hikes and the introduction of the National Credit Act are contributing to the sudden change in the property environment. Local market entry starts at around R500 000 for a one bedroom apartment, whilst an upmarket, luxury family home will sell for R10m or more. On the other hand, a spectacular character home and pool spanning six erven on the cliffs overlooking Walker Bay, is being offered at R30m. Stands with a view are much sought after, but come at a price. A 1 000m² property in Westcliff has recently come onto the market at R7,7m for the stand only. Sales at the top end of the market have not been significantly impacted by the National Credit Act and increased interest rates. However in the middle price range between R2 million and R4.5 million, the market has been somewhat slower, with prices under pressure. Conversely, the market below R1.5 million remains buoyant and is showing encouraging growth. Over the past year the Hermanus residential property market in general has experienced an average growth in value of approximately 12 percent. We expect that more properties will come onto the market as the interest rate increases start to take effect, which will present good opportunities for prospective buyers. Summer season is traditionally the most active period in the local property market. Onrus remains a much sought after holiday destination, with prices on the 'peninsula' ranging from R2-R6 million. Neighbouring Vermont has grown enormously in recent years, with vacant land selling mainly between R650 000 and R2 million. Both these towns have seen exceptional growth of 35-40 percent during 2005/6, mainly at the lower end of the market i.e. below R1.5 million. In Sandbaai there are opportunities for first time buyers below the R1 million level. Sandbaai has experienced a great deal of growth with several new residential developments launched during the past two years. Anticipating a boom in the area, large retailers are moving in and shopping malls are currently under construction. Development estates are mushrooming and by 2012, Hermanus will have transformed from a rural holiday village into a buzzing town, very much like Plettenberg Bay. Despite this, Hermanus is still regarded as being off the beaten track and manages to retain its charm.” Background Information : General Hermanus offers great beaches, mountain walks, fine restaurants and is a wine lovers paradise with nearby wine farms offering wine tasting. Other contributory factors to the success of the town is the natural scenic beauty, the mild-climate, the range of outdoor activities available and the close proximity to Cape Town. From fishing, diving, whale watching and relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring the mountainside with its diverse unspoilt coastal Fynbos and abundant bird life, or shopping, wining & dining, the charming village of Hermanus offers something for everyone. Known as the heart of the whale coast, this coastal resort offers the best land based whale watching in the world. Whales visit Walker Bay from July until December every year. About 60 to 100 of these magnificent animals come here from Antarctica to calf. Often coming to within 5-10 meters of the coast. Whales can be seen from as close as five metres from places, just about guaranteed on a daily basis, during September and October. The world's only whale crier, Wilson Salukazana, blows his kelp horn, alerting visitors to the whereabouts of the whales. Hermanus provides excellent sightings from its rocky cliffs and coastal paths. The Whale Festival is held to celebrate the arrival of the whales that come to Walker Bay to mate and calve. For ten days each September and October, Hermanus is transformed as thousands of visitors from all over the country arrive to enjoy the arts and experience of the Whale Festival.

house, 652 m² 16 Exclusive dwellings (plot & plan) with spectacular mountain & sea views. Buy direct from developer from R1,35 million - only 7 left. Choose your own finishes. Houses sizes varies between 188 sq.m & 362 sq.m & plot sizes between 600 & 652 sq.m. Houses designed to be utilized by two or more families..... Hermanus Property Market : In the longer term Hermanus homes is expected to outperform most South African residential properties - for the simple reason that this stretch of coastline is recognised as being one of the four or five top holiday and retirement areas in South Africa. Property here, especially coastal property, will become increasingly scarce. This scarcity will be exacerbated by the new coastal development legislation that is designed to preserve coastal precincts considered scenically beautiful and/or ecologically sensitive. Prime properties in sought after Hermanus in the Western Cape are fetching excellent prices with several prime seafront properties sold at prices ranging from R10.5 million to R12.5 million. In nearby Onrus a top price of R5.8 million has been achieved for a seaside property. There is a definite shift from a strong seller’s market to a rapidly emerging buyer’s and rental market. The recent interest rate hikes and the introduction of the National Credit Act are contributing to the sudden change in the property environment. Local market entry starts at around R500 000 for a one bedroom apartment, whilst an upmarket, luxury family home will sell for R10m or more. On the other hand, a spectacular character home and pool spanning six erven on the cliffs overlooking Walker Bay, is being offered at R30m. Stands with a view are much sought after, but come at a price. A 1 000m² property in Westcliff has recently come onto the market at R7,7m for the stand only. Sales at the top end of the market have not been significantly impacted by the National Credit Act and increased interest rates. However in the middle price range between R2 million and R4.5 million, the market has been somewhat slower, with prices under pressure. Conversely, the market below R1.5 million remains buoyant and is showing encouraging growth. Over the past year the Hermanus residential property market in general has experienced an average growth in value of approximately 12 percent. We expect that more properties will come onto the market as the interest rate increases start to take effect, which will present good opportunities for prospective buyers. Summer season is traditionally the most active period in the local property market. Onrus remains a much sought after holiday destination, with prices on the 'peninsula' ranging from R2-R6 million. Neighbouring Vermont has grown enormously in recent years, with vacant land selling mainly between R650 000 and R2 million. Both these towns have seen exceptional growth of 35-40 percent during 2005/6, mainly at the lower end of the market i.e. below R1.5 million. In Sandbaai there are opportunities for first time buyers below the R1 million level. Sandbaai has experienced a great deal of growth with several new residential developments launched during the past two years. Anticipating a boom in the area, large retailers are moving in and shopping malls are currently under construction. Development estates are mushrooming and by 2012, Hermanus will have transformed from a rural holiday village into a buzzing town, very much like Plettenberg Bay. Despite this, Hermanus is still regarded as being off the beaten track and manages to retain its charm.” Background Information : General Hermanus offers great beaches, mountain walks, fine restaurants and is a wine lovers paradise with nearby wine farms offering wine tasting. Other contributory factors to the success of the town is the natural scenic beauty, the mild-climate, the range of outdoor activities available and the close proximity to Cape Town. From fishing, diving, whale watching and relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring the mountainside with its diverse unspoilt coastal Fynbos and abundant bird life, or shopping, wining & dining, the charming village of Hermanus offers something for everyone. Known as the heart of the whale coast, this coastal resort offers the best land based whale watching in the world. Whales visit Walker Bay from July until December every year. About 60 to 100 of these magnificent animals come here from Antarctica to calf. Often coming to within 5-10 meters of the coast. Whales can be seen from as close as five metres from places, just about guaranteed on a daily basis, during September and October. The world's only whale crier, Wilson Salukazana, blows his kelp horn, alerting visitors to the whereabouts of the whales. Hermanus provides excellent sightings from its rocky cliffs and coastal paths. The Whale Festival is held to celebrate the arrival of the whales that come to Walker Bay to mate and calve. For ten days each September and October, Hermanus is transformed as thousands of visitors from all over the country arrive to enjoy the arts and experience of the Whale Festival.

terraced house This well built development is situated in scerene area near the Bonza Bay River . Stroll to the upper reaches within 2 minutes , birdlife and a country feel . Secure complex by established developer . Final phase of the devlopment about to complete. This is a great investment for an investor or a young entrant into the property market. Features : Exterior Finish : Masonite Appliances : Oven Range Roof : Concrete Tile Sewer/Water Systems : Public View : Pasture, Panoramic Background Information East London : Location: South Africa's only river port city is situated on the Buffalo river on one of the most attractive stretches of the Eastern Cape coastline. Sweeping white beaches extend for miles - uncrowded and unspoilt. . Several seaside resorts are scattered along the coastline, all within a short distance from East London. Climate : The climate is temperate. History : Several well-preserved examples of 19th century architecture enhance the charm of the city, e.g. the City Hall & Lock Street Goal. Infrastructure : Educational facilities : Sporting Facilities : Water sports are enjoyed all year round. East London has positioned itself as a sportman's mecca, hosting Provincial, National and International sporting events. The wide variety of sporting activities on offer, cater for groups as well as the individual. Commercial Facilities : Buffalo City — made up of East London, Bisho and King William’s Town — is a case in point. The city has a small manufacturing base, dominated by auto manufacturer DaimlerChrysler, to which much of the town serves in a supply capacity. The company manufactures the Mercedes-Benz C class, mostly for export through the city’s port. But Buffalo City is in a tenuous position. Formal private-sector jobs are shrinking: there were fewer jobs in 2004 than there were in 1996. The only growth in formal employment has come from the public sector, which since 1996 has risen steadily. Population growth (the city’s population at the last census was 700000) is close to zero — an indication that people are leaving due to a lack of opportunities. There has been little, if any, improvement to the port or airport since they were built. Not even the boom in coastal property has attracted new investors and there is almost no development on the beachfront. Buffalo City at a crossroads. With little going for it right now, in terms of growth, getting a viable long-term plan in place will determine whether government will leave it to sink or help it to swim. Government, in the office of the Presidency, has developed a national spatial development perspective (NSDP) which will now inform where resources should be allocated. Property Market : East London still offers buyers and investors many worthwhile properties for less than the national average selling price of almost R900 000 . The inner city areas in East London are also affordable for many middle-income buyers - in contrast to the CBDs of Cape Town and Johannesburg - and there is the added attraction of living close to work and all amenities. The best areas to look for when searching for moderately priced homes in the R600 000 to R1m price range, include Amalinda, Cambridge and surrounding suburbs, as well as isolated possibilities in areas such as Southernwood, Quigney, Greenfields and Sunnyridge. Residential property in the Southernwood and Quigney areas is mainly made up of flats & investors can purchase really decent two-bedroom flats from around R350 000. If investors are looking for much cheaper areas within the city of East London, two-bedroom houses can be purchased for between R150 000 and R200 000 in the Mdantsane area. Here most homes are historically not considered as investment properties in the traditional sense - with the majority of the buyers being “previously disadvantaged”. In the Amalinda area, good middle-class homes can be purchased for R800 000 or less. The demand for homes in this area is high, especially among buyers who wish to be close to family and friends in Mdantsane. Things to Do : A variety of theatres, cinemas and a selection of restaurants to sample. East London has something for everyone, whether you're a sporting enthusiast, fisherman, historian, nature lover, or simply in need of a rejuvenating break away from it all. . River mouths, lagoons and gullies provide a paradise for fishermen East London Museum Explore the - home of the Coelacanth and the world's only Dodo egg. Anne Bryant Art Gallery Visit the Gallery - built in 1905, a fine example of late Victorian architecture, it contains varied and valuable art collections. Calgary Transport Museum The Museum - 13 km from the City, has a collection of wagons and a Gypsy Caravan. German Settlers Memorial The Memorial - commemorates the 1858/9 arrival of more than 2000 German men, women and children which helped to expand the settlement. The Queens Park Zoo & Botanical Gardens Offer a variety of mammals and reptiles, set in lush surroundings, which can be enjoyed by the whole family. East London Aquarium Visit the Aquarium, home to approximately 400 species of marine life and watch the seal show. Latimer's Landing Visit Latimer's Landing - waterfront development on the Buffalo River with restaurants and pubs. Boat trips up the river are available and Yacht trips and Pleasure cruises can be arranged. The coastal region from Port st Johns to Port Alfred is fast becoming one of the most sought after areas to invest in Property. The indigenous , unspoilt surroundings are a huge attraction , dispalying one of the most diverse and unspoilt natural eco systems in the Country. Visit www.inkwenkwezi.co.za to get a taste of the numerous coastal disease free game parks that are attracting tourism from all over the globe. Economic development is at it's all time peak with well managed industrialisation projects like the IDZ ( Industrial Development Zone ) in full swing , and major manufaturers like Daimler Chrysler SA investing Billions in import and export of quality vehicles through the Buffalo Harbour Port. Property prices are rocketing and some areas have recorded 100-200% increases in value over a mere 2-3 years. All indications are that this trend will continue , maybe less vigourously with 20-30% growth P.A. in the stable interest rate environment and demand growing daily for the quality of life in East London the best kept secret in South Africa An unprecedented building boom pushed the value of building plans passed by the Buffalo City Municipality (BCM) in the Eastern Cape last year to over R1 billion for the first time in history, the Dispatch reported on Thursday. Property experts say the boom has been fuelled by new housing and shopping centre developments as well as investment flowing into the East London Industrial Development Zone (IDZ). The total value of plans in 2006 was a touch over R1 billion compared to 2005’s R708 million. Explaining the 41 percent increase over 2005, BCM mayor Zintle Peter said the city was experiencing a period of positive growth not seen in decades. "There are many factors responsible for the building boom, including a stable macro-economic environment and low interest rates, but I am heartened by the people who are now confident to invest in the property market," she said. Some of the big property investments over the last year included seven new companies investing R395 million in the IDZ and a R150 million mini-mall in Gonubie. June saw the highest amount of building plans passed at R187 million, followed by October with R180 million. Border-Kei Chamber of Business executive director Les Holbrook expects this year’s approvals to be "way more" than last year. Holbrook said the property boom was the result of business confidence in the city from local, national and international investors who have realised the city provided a "solid investment return". - Sapa