Grahamstown, Eastern Cape

Grahamstown at a glance

Background and Historical Information of the Area

Tucked away in the Eastern Cape, Grahamstown (now known as Makhanda) is a town full of history, vibrant culture, and a welcoming community.

Area Serenity

Real estate in Grahamstown (Makhanda) is a mix of historical charm and modern convenience, reflecting the town's rich cultural heritage and academic environment, primarily driven by the presence of some of the country's top schools and Rhodes University. The market here tends to be more affordable compared to larger urban centres, offering opportunities for first-time homebuyers, students, and investors. With its status as a university town, Grahamstown remains a strong investment market, especially for out of town parents who want to be closer to their children in one of the towns many boarding schools and student accommodation. Properties close to Rhodes University are always in demand, and rental income from students can be quite attractive.

Lifestyle

The town's slower pace of life, combined with its academic and cultural draw, makes it an appealing option for both retirees and young families looking for a quieter and safer place to live.

Attractions of the Area

Grahamstown offers a diverse range of activities to suit all ages and interests. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene by attending the National Arts Festival, a cornerstone of the town's annual calendar. For beach lovers, a scenic 45-minute drive takes you to some of the Eastern Cape's finest coastal spots.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the lush Botanical Gardens or venture into one of the many world-class game reserves surrounding the town. The area also boasts exceptional opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, showcasing the region's stunning natural beauty.

Golfers will delight in the top-ranked 18-hole championship golf course, nestled among century-old oak trees in the picturesque Belmont Valley-a true gem for golf aficionados.

Education

Grahamstown is home to some of the best schools in the country, including St Andrew's College, The Diocesan School for Girls (DSG), Kingswood College, Graeme College and Victoria Girls High School. Rhodes University, one of South Africa's top universities is a hub for academic and research excellence. The university is known for its vibrant student life and high standard of education, attracting scholars and students from around the world.

Safety

Grahamstown is generally considered a safe town with a low petty crime rate and an almost non-existent serious crime rate which can be directly attributed to the town's two private security companies, being Hi-Tec Security and Smhart Security.

Statistics

Let us look at the demographics of sellers and buyers by age in Grahamstown

Sellers: 34% aged between 50-64.

Buyers: 43% of all recent buyers are aged 36-49.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Grahamstown is anchored by institutions such as Settlers Hospital, which provides a range of essential medical services to the community. Complementing this are numerous private healthcare providers, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care locally. For more advanced or specialized services, some of the country's top private hospitals are conveniently located just 80 minutes away in Port Elizabeth, offering comprehensive care within easy reach.

Shopping Centres

For shopping, Grahamstown offers convenient options such as the Pepper Grove Mall, a hub for residents to access a variety of shops, supermarkets, and essential services-all in one location. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience for both everyday needs and special purchases.

Restaurants

Grahamstown offers a diverse array of dining experiences to suit every palate. Popular spots include The Rat and Parrot, known for its hearty meals and relaxed pub atmosphere, and Major Fraser's, which combines fine dining with a charming outdoor setting. The Highlander provides a unique dining experience, with its terrace overlooking the rugby and cricket fields of St Andrew's College. Additionally, the town boasts a selection of coffee shops and local eateries, ideal for casual meals, weekend outings, or catching up with friends over a cup of coffee.

Distance from key points

The nearest major airport to Grahamstown is Port Elizabeth Airport, located just 80 minutes away, providing convenient travel options for both business and leisure travellers. For aviation enthusiasts, Grahamstown also features a small, privately operated airport, catering to private flights and local air travel needs.

Franchisee - Agents

Wheeldon, Rushmere & Cole Inc. - Your Local Real Estate Partner is the owner of the 3%.Com Properties franchise in Grahamstown. 

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