Why South Africans Are Flocking to Mauritius Property

Mauritius has become the number one hotspot for South Africans looking to invest in offshore real estate, establish a Plan B or move their families to a safer, more prosperous region that isn’t too far from family and friends back home.

With the Mauritian real estate market having seen capital growth of over 300% in the past 10 years whilst the local South African market has stagnated, it’s no surprise that South Africa represents one of the main sources of foreign direct investment flows. Second only to France, it accounts for 21.7% of the property investment market in Mauritius.

To cater to this demand, numerous upmarket residential estates have been developed under the Property Development Scheme (PDS). The newest offering, Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate in the popular Black River region, is taking residential development to a new level.

Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate: Ultimate Tropical Luxury

Situated on the west coast in the sought-after Black River region and due to break ground early next year, Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate is being developed in partnership with renowned luxury resort group Beachcomber, alongside the neighbouring Harmonie Beachcomber Golf Resort.

“Not only is it set in an idyllic location between mountain and sea with sweeping views of the region, boasting generous plot sizes averaging 2000m² with a build area of 400m², it’s being developed in tandem with the neighbouring Harmonie Beachcomber Golf Resort, the ultimate summer village for the whole family.

“A veritable playground offering a beach bar, restaurants, sports centre, kids club, water sports, spa and even a craft village, residents along with their guests will enjoy preferential rates throughout the resort.”

This PDS project consists of 220 luxury villas on 73 hectares of land abutting an 18-hole golf course. Sales for the first phase, comprising 81 villas and residential plots, launched earlier this year.

Sustainable Bioclimate Architecture

With environmentally responsible building at the core, developers Beachcomber and Semaris Groups have embraced bioclimate architecture to optimise the stunning natural environment with the least possible footprint. Buyers have the option to create a 100% off-grid villa.

“All three villa types will use sustainable and innovative architectural concepts to make full use of the landscape, natural ventilation and lighting through well-thought-out orientation. Each will include a landscaped patio as a green lung.

“A smart layout of rooms and openings promotes natural air circulation, whilst a considered choice of materials minimises the carbon footprint during construction and reduces reliance on mechanical equipment.

“Villas may be equipped with photovoltaic solar panels for 100% off-grid living.”

Investors can choose ready-built villas available off-plan to Mauritian and foreign buyers under a VEFA contract with three interior design packages, or serviced plots exclusively for Mauritian buyers with strict architectural guidelines.

Investment Incentives and Residency Benefits

The Mauritian government has adjusted investment criteria, lowering the minimum real estate investment for residency from USD500,000 to USD375,000, with permanent residence cards now valid for 20 years. Occupation Permits require just USD50,000 (previously USD100,000), valid for 10 years.

Mauritian banks offer mortgages to foreign investors at 7-9% interest with a 40% deposit.

Black River: Expat Family Haven

The Black River region offers a unique quality of life, popular with international families thanks to excellent schools, a private clinic, supermarkets, retail, restaurants, cafés, markets and leisure activities.

“Mauritius remains the top destination for South Africans looking to invest offshore or relocate. Adding to that is the island’s accolades, including Best Country to Work from in the Region by KAYAK,” says Grahame Diedericks, International Liaison for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.

Timo Geldenhuys, Director of Sotheby’s International Realty in Mauritius, adds: “This truly is an exceptional development in all aspects.”

Plot and plan prices at Harmonie Golf & Beach Estate range between €1,490,000 and €2,020,000.