PROPERTY TRENDS
LOOKING TO ESCAPE THE CITY GRIND?
BY CHARIS TORRANCE
RHODES AND LADY GREY OFFER SCENIC TRANQUILLITY, AFFORDABLE HOMES AND A SLOWER PACE OF LIFE. THESE EASTERN CAPE TREASURES ARE QUIETLY BECOMING HOTSPOTS FOR BUYERS SEEKING NATURE, COMMUNITY AND A BREATH OF FRESH AIR.
In the Eastern Cape, the peaceful towns of Rhodes and Lady Grey have drawn buyers looking for a calm and affordable alternative to city living.
FACTORS DRIVING BUYER INTEREST
Rhodes and Lady Grey are“ off the beaten track, quiet and picturesque”, says Dave Walker of Pam Golding Properties. And, it’ s this peaceful charm and natural beauty that are steadily attracting more buyers.
Belinda van Wyk, head of marketing at Century 21, states,“ Rhodes and Lady Grey are increasingly appealing due to their tranquil settings, scenic landscapes and slower pace of life.”
AFFORDABLE PROPERTY MARKET
Walker explains that prices in Rhodes and Lady Grey are“ lower than the more traditional urban areas”. In East London, for example, three- to fourbedroom homes usually sell for between R1.5 million and R3 million. Conversely, properties in Rhodes and Lady Grey remain considerably more affordable.
“ Many cottages and family homes are priced in the mid-hundreds of thousands, with only select renovated homes approaching the million-rand mark. Vacant plots are available for less than R100 000,” adds van Wyk.
It’ s this price gap that is prompting a growing number of buyers to explore these towns as viable, value-rich alternatives to city living.
BUYER DEMOGRAPHICS AND DEMAND
While some overseas buyers show interest, Walker observes that the majority of prospective purchasers come from other provinces.
Van Wyk explains,“ Vacant land is highly sought after, particularly by those wishing to build custom homes. Cottages and family houses also see steady demand. Retirees and older buyers are increasingly active in the market, attracted by the towns’ peaceful environment and lifestyle benefits.”
A SUSTAINABLE LIFESTYLE AND LONG- TERM INVESTMENT
Walker emphasises that the area’ s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an ideal location for“ people who do not have an issue with travelling to buy groceries once a month, for example.” The slower pace and sense of space appeal to those seeking a more intentional way of living.
Van Wyk adds that, despite their small size, these towns“ provide essential services and maintain a sense of community. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, they offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation and foster a close-knit, safe community atmosphere.”
As van Wyk notes,“ Combined with affordable property options, Rhodes and Lady Grey offer both long-term investment potential and a high quality of life for those seeking a serene alternative to urban living.”
As the trend of seeking peaceful, rural escapes continues to grow, Rhodes and Lady Grey show how tranquillity and affordability can boost property demand in Eastern Cape. IB
28 INBOUND SA / December 2025