A slower pace of life, sunset walks on the beach, daily rejuvenating dips in the ocean and temperate weather are just some of the reasons why so many people dream of retiring to the coast, and many are lucky enough to have the opportunity.

Carole Christie from Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Port Alfred says when taking the plunge to make the dream a reality, retirees should carefully weigh up their options to ensure that they make a sound investment.

“It’s important to think with your head and not your heart when evaluating homes by the sea to retire to. All too often, people get caught up in the moment and don’t pay enough attention to the soundness of the investment they’re about to make.

“To ensure that you earn acceptable returns, you need to be smart about what type of home you buy and where. Ultimately, the goal is to buy a property that will appreciate in value and be easy to sell when the time comes.

“Buying property is a long-term commitment and this is something you must also remember. If you are willing to make the commitment, you should make sure you buy a home that will meet your needs now and in 10 years time.

“For instance, although you might be tempted to buy a slightly larger home than you need so that your kids and grandkids can holiday with you, it might not be the most wise or practical decision. Your retirement is about you and your partner, nobody else. In the short term, your family might take their holidays with you but at the end of the day, it will be you who will be rattling around a house too big for your needs when the novelty wears off,” advises Christie.

She says a dilemma many retirees face is whether or not to buy in a retirement village.

“Obviously, it all depends what you want from your retirement. For many people, security and the sense of community that comes with village living are the key motivating factors for buying in a retirement village. In fact, a survey of residents in retirement villages in KZN showed that security is the main reason why people choose to buy in retirement communes. The availability of assisted care is another reason.

“Many retirees also value the social opportunities. You get to meet and socialise with people who are in the same phase of life as you. When your family is geographically dispersed, the members of your close village community become the next best thing. Even if you aren’t much of a socialite, you’ll probably still take some comfort in knowing that your neighbours are in close proximity and that you are part of a community.

“There are other conveniences as well. Depending on the village you choose, you might have the option of taking your meals in a communal dining room or clubhouse; there may be a pool on the estate that you can use but not have to take care of; there may be regular social events which you can attend and there might be a body corporate (BC) that takes responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of the properties, leaving you a few less things to worry about while you’re strolling on the beach,” she says.

Christie advises potential buyers to bear the following in mind when evaluating retirement homes at the coast:

- Homes with a sea view hold their value and are always in higher demand.

- Homes in secure estates and villages are in demand and represent a sound investment.

- A home in easy access to the beach, hospitals, shopping centres, golf courses, tennis clubs and bowling clubs will be easier to sell.

- Newer homes are built with materials and components that can withstand coastal weather and humidity so your maintenance needs won’t be as high.

“Do your homework on the different areas you are interested in retiring to and view a number of properties before making your decision. Don’t settle until you find a property that delivers on your needs and expectations. It’s your retirement, your time,” Christie says.

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