One of Durban’s best-kept secrets is situated just behind Umhlanga.
For some reason, Prestondale has never received the same level of publicity as its upmarket neighbour and yet it's minutes away from the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, close to the business hub of La Lucia and, of course, the beach is just down the road.
Despite all of this, property in Prestondale remains reasonably priced, particularly when compared to that in Umhlanga. Last year, for example, 25 freehold homes were sold for an average price of R2,5m. A total of 17 sectional title units changed hands for an average of R1,85m. To put this into perspective, the 57 freehold homes sold in Umhlanga Rocks during the same period fetched an average price of R4,6m.
The small suburb (it has just over 300 properties) contains a fairly even mix of freehold and sectional title homes. According to Lightstone statistics, 39% of residents are aged 65 or older, and 38% of recent buyers fall into the same age group. However, the area also appeals to the younger set and 29% of current owners are aged between 36 and 49. Likewise, 23% of recent buyers also fall into this age group.
Apart from the price, the main drawcard is convenience. There are a number of good schools in the area and the suburb has several medical facilities, including Netcare Umhlanga Hospital. But for most the biggest attraction has to be Gateway Theatre of Shopping which offers outstanding shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities, including a wide choice of movies.
For those who enjoy getting out and about, there’s always the Umhlanga Promenade, which is ideal for jogging or cycling along 3km of Durban’s more scenic beaches.
We recently moved to the area and love the fact that we now live so close to everything.
Ruth Jones, resident.
Best in food:
- Harvey’s Restaurant
- 14 On Chartwell
- Little Havana
Top medical facilities:
- Netcare Umhlanga Hospital
- Gateway Private Hospital
- Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre
Top schools nearby:
- Umhlanga College
- Atholton Primary School
- Crawford Schools La Lucia
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a beautiful journey through the Umhlanga neighbourhood here:
