Great schools, a terrific location and a superb choice of property are all factors which have been drawing buyers to Durban North for years.
About the area
The suburb is also ideally situated for those who work in Durban (which is a mere 11km away) or in the newer commercial centres to the north, a relatively short 15-minute drive from the centre of the suburb.
Although it is an older suburb, a large number of the homes have been renovated and the area boasts some beautiful, modern properties. Most of the homes fall under the freehold banner, and because of the desirability of the suburb, those who invest here seem reluctant to leave. Lightstone statistics reveal that half of those who move in to the area stay in their homes for more than 11 years.
So what draws property buyers to this part of town?
Convenience has a big role to play. Add good schools, a host of fantastic restaurants and some excellent shopping into the mix and you have the perfect suburb in which to live. The area also features some excellent sporting amenities including the Riverside Sports club which offers, among others, facilities for hockey, soccer and rugby. It is also home to the well-known Riverside Harriers running club.
Durban North has also exploded commercially. Judging by the numbers and the increase in traffic, this has added to the attraction and the area is now very popular with Durbanites. This popularity has impacted property prices which have risen sharply since 2005 when the average price paid for a freehold property hovered around the R1,7m mark. These days, the average price for a freehold home has soared to around R3m in this gorgeous suburb.
I love the vibrancy of Durban North. Friends are always willing to come to my neck of the woods for a meal or a night on the town.
Jade Smith, resident
Top schools nearby:
- Northwood School
- Northlands Girls’ High School
- Virginia Preparatory School
Nearby medical facilities:
- Netcare Umhlanga Hospital
- Netcare Parklands Hospital
- Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre
Best in food:
- Union Square
- The Wok Box
- Atasca Portuguese Restaurant
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
