Generational shift: Steenberg Golf Estate sees younger buyers as older residents sell
A Steenberg Golf Estate in Cape Town listing – a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom home – is priced at R30 million.
Image: File
Steenberg Golf Estate in Cape Town is witnessing a significant shift in property ownership demographics.
Recent Lightstone data indicates that in the year leading up to September 2025, more than 40% of buyers were aged between 50 and 64, while nearly a third were aged 36 to 49. Meanwhile, nearly 75% of sellers were over the age of 65.
This trend underscores a generational transition in ownership within the estate, as older residents move out and younger families and professionals move in.
The trend mirrors a broader movement of wealthy Gauteng residents relocating to the Western Cape. Crumbling infrastructure in Johannesburg and Pretoria is driving the exodus.
“Unfortunately, the quality of life for residents of Johannesburg and Pretoria has continued to decline in the past year owing to deteriorating transport, electricity and water infrastructures, poor municipal management and relatively high crime levels,” said Berry Everitt, CEO of the Chas Everitt International property group last month.
“The changing buyer demographic tells a deeper story,” said Steve Thomas of the Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty estates team in Cape Town’s southern suburbs.
Thomas said, “we’re seeing successful professionals and families who are not just buying a house; they are investing in a secure, amenity-rich lifestyle that is incredibly rare to find so close to the city”.
While the Lightstone median price for the estate over 12 months was just over R15 million, Thomas said the median price for 2025 sales alone rose to R17.75 million.
Security is a major drawcard, with 24-hour guarded access, patrols and advanced camera systems.
The estate is close to Reddam House Constantia, and within 25 minutes of the CBD, airport and False Bay beaches.
“Steenberg uniquely blends a countryside resort feel with urban accessibility,” said Dave Burger from the same agency, who also pointed out that rentals offer great potential.
“With holiday rentals commanding between R5 000 and R30 000 per day, the wealth creation opportunity is significant,” said Burger.
Burger added that, because the draw is the golf course and world-class leisure facilities, “the rental season isn’t confined to peak holiday periods, ensuring consistent income”.
The 18-hole golf course, designed by Peter Matkovich, winds through vineyards, wetlands and fynbos.
Home ownership includes automatic golf membership and access to an on-site hotel, spa and restaurants.
A current listing – a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom home – is priced at R30 million. The double-storey property includes a study, pool, jacuzzi, and mountain views.