What Should You Look for in a Lifestyle Estate?
With demand for lifestyle estates continuing to grow across South Africa, many buyers are asking the same question: What should I look for to make sure I’m making a smart, future-proof investment?
According to Antonie Goosen, principal and founder of Meridian Realty, not all lifestyle estates are created equal—so it’s important to look beyond the marketing brochures and glossy photos before committing.
“The term ‘lifestyle estate’ has become a bit of a buzzword, but buyers need to be savvy,” says Goosen. “There are brilliant estates that offer real value, security, and a high quality of life, but there are also those where the lifestyle promise doesn’t quite match the day-to-day reality.”
Key Features to Consider
Goosen highlights several non-negotiables when considering a lifestyle estate:
- Location still matters
“Even within a gated estate, location is key,” he says. “Check proximity to schools, hospitals, shops, and work hubs. An estate that’s too far from essential services or major transport routes may impact your daily life and your long-term resale value."
- Security infrastructure
One of the main reasons people buy into estates is for peace of mind. “Look at whether the estate has layered security systems: controlled access, surveillance, electric fencing, and on-site security personnel,” Goosen advises. “Ask about response times and whether security is managed internally or outsourced.”
- Financial health of the homeowners’ association (HOA)
A detail often overlooked by buyers is the financial stability of the estate itself. “Request the estate’s audited financials,” says Goosen. “You want to make sure the HOA or body corporate is well-managed, has reserves in place for maintenance, and that levies are being used transparently and responsibly.”
- Lifestyle features and long-term maintenance
Amenities like walking trails, gyms, pools, and communal areas are major selling points—but Goosen says buyers must ask how these are maintained. “It’s easy to fall in love with a golf course or clubhouse, but if levies are too high or upkeep is neglected, the lifestyle aspect can quickly become a burden instead of a benefit.”
- Demographic and community profile
Different estates attract different buyers—retirees, families with young children, or professionals. “Try to get a feel for the current community,” Goosen advises. “Visit on weekends, chat to residents, and see if the estate’s vibe matches your lifestyle stage and expectations.”
Future-Proofing Your Investment
With estate living on the rise, Goosen says buyers should also think about long-term trends.
“Sustainability, fibre connectivity, and backup power are increasingly important,” he notes. “A well-designed estate should offer energy-efficient solutions, reliable internet, and either solar or generator power for essential services.”
He also encourages buyers to research development plans in the area. “Estates that are part of well-planned nodes with commercial, residential, and recreational integration tend to hold their value better over time.”
Goosen’s says it’s easy to be sold on the dream, but important to take a step back and approach the purchase with a blend of logic and emotion. “Think about how you’ll live there day to day. Visit the estate more than once, ask hard questions, and make sure it ticks all your boxes, not just now, but five or ten years from now. A good lifestyle estate can be a dream come true, but only if it meets your needs, matches your stage of life, and is financially sound,” concludes
