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Semigration is creating an influx of skills and purchasing power into smaller towns that are attractive for relocation, and towns with aging populations are seeing an influx of younger families – even in the Northern Cape.
So says Antonie Goosen, principal and founder of Meridian Realty, who is of the opinion that people are looking for a country lifestyle at a good price point for families.
Semigration is the movement from one part of a country to another, and South Africa is seeing a rising trend in semigration, taking homebuyers to many remote areas of the country.
Goosen says Gauteng remains the province with the most hiring activity and the greatest influx of residents, but this is starting to slow down.
“Kimberley, the economic hub of the province, is showing steady price growth on freehold homes. Karoo towns are showing good returns on property investment, with increasingly low stock levels and more rural areas benefitting from new mining licences awarded.”
“Growing populations require accommodation and bring a surge of spending power into smaller towns. This creates employment for locals and can be a positive force against unemployment. New skills can mean new businesses opening.
"Semigrators may opt for entrepreneurial ventures or offer skills like teaching, medical services, and engineering, or contribute to arts or the restaurant trade.
"Those who have sought a better life away from larger cities will continue to contribute to their hometowns, uplifting communities and breathing new life into smaller towns,” concludes Goosen.
