While modern upgrades and lifestyle features can enhance a home’s appeal, experts caution that no amount of renovation can compensate for a poor location.
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“You can build the most beautiful kitchen, install solar, and add the perfect entertainment area; but if the location is poor, none of it adds up. The one thing money can’t buy is a great location,” says Kobie Potgieter, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Independent Properties.
“Overcapitalising in the wrong area is a mistake we still see too often. Always upgrade within the ceiling of your suburb. If the street doesn't support your improvements, you're just throwing good money into a bad investment.”
On KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, where lifestyle and ocean views drive demand, Kim Peacock, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Dolphin Realtors, agrees that location is everything. “Location remains the one upgrade that money simply can’t buy - and on the North Coast, it’s everything. Whether it's sea views, proximity to schools, or access to lifestyle estates, location dictates not just lifestyle but also resale value.
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"We often say that you can renovate finishes, but you can’t change where the front door lands. Buyers who prioritise the right location often make the best long-term investments.”
Echoing this sentiment from the Western Cape, Barbara Larney, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Wine and Whales, adds that while location drives value, what defines a ‘good’ location can also depend on the individual. “Location remains the single most important factor in a property’s long-term value and desirability, far beyond any renovations or upgrades."
However, a ‘good’ location can be subjective; it depends on your personal lifestyle, family needs and future. Urban vibrancy, suburban calm, or proximity to nature all appeal differently depending on your priorities. Taking time to evaluate what environment supports your goals and wellbeing ensures you choose a location that delivers sustainable value and satisfaction for years to come.”
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While personal preferences may differ, there are some fundamentals that always separate a good location from a bad one. Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX Southern Africa, shares that a good investment location offers strong fundamentals such as proximity to jobs, schools, and amenities; reliable infrastructure and safety; and well-managed municipal services.
“Access to lifestyle perks, scenic appeal, and future development potential further boost long-term value. In contrast, poor governance, high crime, oversupply, and distance from essential services can erode demand and limit appreciation. Ultimately, areas with consistent buyer interest, stable infrastructure, and community upkeep tend to outperform those where neglect and inconvenience drive residents away,” he explains.
“When it comes to property, choosing the right area from the start is what truly protects and grows your wealth over time. If you’re unsure how to identify the best location for your lifestyle and long-term goals, a qualified RE/MAX agent can offer expert local insight to help you make a confident, informed decision,” says Goslett.
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When it comes to selling your home, establishing what it's worth before putting it up for sale is crucial because sellers who demand over the odds may have to watch their home linger on the market – and the longer it remains, the less interest it will attract as potential buyers will assume there must be something wrong.
This is according to Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, who adds that, in addition to the time wasted, is the likelihood that the asking price will need to be slashed - perhaps multiple times - and the owner risks selling their home for less than they would if they had started with a more accurate valuation.
“When it comes to determining the value of a home, there are numerous factors that play a significant role, such as location, size, condition, and market trends, however, there are several misconceptions about what influences a home's value.
“Many people mistakenly believe that certain factors have a substantial impact on their home's worth when, in reality, these factors have little to no bearing and by including them in the calculations, they are likely to end up with an inaccurate price point.”
https://www.property24.com/articles/location-first-why-the-right-area-beats-any-renovation/32848
