FINKENSTEIN NATURE ESTATE

PROPERTY INVESTMENT IN NAMIBIA

Home to the world’s highest sand dunes and oldest desert and among the only places to catch a glimpse of the rare black rhino or desert-dwelling elephants, Namibia is indeed one of the last true wildernesses. Not only does the country boast some of the planet’s most diverse landscapes and an abundance of natural resources, but it also enjoys one of Africa’s most peaceful and politically stable environments and has an infrastructure to rival those of most developed countries. As a result, Namibia has in recent years become an international property hot spot, with new developments and ambitious construction projects increasingly springing up from the seemingly barren desert plains.

Namibia is regarded as the most stable country in Africa, with a robust democracy ensuring political stability, consistent economic growth, modern infrastructure and services and, above all, a high standard of living. From a business perspective, Namibia is also an excellent entry point from where investors can launch businesses into the rest of Africa. Excellent road and rail infrastructure connects Windhoek and the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay to neighboring countries, while regional routes are reliably served by various airlines also connecting Namibia to Johannesburg, which is the most prominent regional hub.

The Namibian property market is buoyant and there are no indications that things will change anytime soon.In Windhoek demand outstrips supply in all segments of the market, and this situation will continue while Namibia maintains a consistent economic growth rate of about 5%.

WHERE TO BUY

A number of new lifestyle estates have arisen on the outskirts of Windhoek. Developments such as Omeya Golf & Residential Oasis, Finkenstein Estate and Herboth’s Blick have become very popular among local and international buyers and, as with the market in Windhoek proper, demand isn’t letting up. New units priced between N$1,2 million and N$2,5 million offer the potential for sound capital growth and return on investment. These estates offers every real-estate product imaginable, from flats starting at N$1,2 million to large mansions in the upmarket areas for up to N$20 million.   

Windhoek, the capital city, has a sophisticated real-estate infrastructure covering the entire spectrum of residential, commercial and industrial products. The more popular residential areas are the upmarket suburbs of Klein Windhoek, Ludwigsdorf, Luxury Hill and Auasblick, where prices vary between N$5 million and N$18 million. These areas are well served by the best private schools, hospitals and various shopping centres, which cater for the daily needs of locals and foreigners alike. Windhoek is situated in a hilly area and many properties offer lovely views over the city and the countryside.  There are also a strong demand for livestock and game farms all over the country, with prices having increased considerably due to high demand and the flourishing agriculture sector,and Namibia’s robust, rapidly growing tourism industry.

The relatively high capital prices of real estate in Windhoek set the return on long term investment for residential property at about 5% and commercial real estate’s at about 7%. Keep in mind that a consistent capital growth figure of about 20%/year on residential properties, which guarantees attractive investment opportunities.

BUYING AS A FOREIGNER

Current legislation puts no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate in local authorities, and many foreigners own properties, especially in Windhoek and Swakopmund, for leisure, investment and corporate-use purposes.

Foreigners need a residence permit to stay in Namibia longer than 90 days per annum, but apart from that, foreign residents and citizens of Namibia are regarded as having equal status when it comes to the purchase and possession of land or property and conveyancing.

The important exception is agricultural land: the Agricultural Land Reform Act prohibits foreign nationals from entering into any agreement on the right to buy agricultural land in Namibia without written ministerial consent, but take note that there are still a limited number of properties which are excluded from these restrictions.

BACKGROUND  INFORMATION

Namibia is home to one of the oldest deserts on the planet and the second largest canyon in the world.A land of contrasts wedged between South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zambia and Zimbabwe.A country of soul and unspoiled natural beauty where well-developed infrastructure, combined with political and economic stability which offers unique property investment opportunities.

The Namibian real estate market is evolving into a more mature, modern landscape, catering to the more sophisticated and discerning client through the provision of innovative, new solutions.

The country has seen an increase in the development of Lifestyle Estates in the residential market and turn key products for clients the in retail and commercial sectors. Farms for sale in Namibia are extremely popular as 46% of the country’s total surface area is suitable for livestock, which is the single largest contributor to the GDP for agriculture. Read on to get better acquainted with Namibia and this incredible offer…..

WILD & WONDERFUL

Namibia is divided into 14 vegetation zones ranging from desert and semi-desert to savannah and woodland. These vegetation zones support a wealth of flora and fauna, including numerous endemic species and an incredible array of wildlife, including the Big 5.

DESOLATE DESERT

A visit to Sossusvlei should be on everyone’s bucket-list and the Fish River Canyon is a must see geological masterpiece. The adventurous will want to take their 4x4s for many a challenging spin around the desert areas of Namibia.

PARKS & CONSERVATION

With its distinctive chalky appearance and large pan, Etosha National Park is one of the country’s greatest game viewing destinations. Numerous other national parks and private reserves have been established to preserve the land, including the Namib-Naukluft Park (one of Africa’s largest) and the Namib-Skeleton Coast Park that stretches from the Orange River in the south to the Kunene in the north.

CULTURE

The rich ethnic diversity of Namibia is represented by the resplendent Himba in the Kunene region, many of whom still wear traditional dress; the Herero, whose women are adorned in distinctive Victorian style of multi-layered skirts and headdresses; the Owambo; the Nama; the Damara; the San Bushmen and those with German, Afrikaans and European heritage.

EDUCATION

Surrounding the residential areas of Windhoek and Swakopmund, you’ll find a wide choice of schools catering to English and German speaking scholars. These include primary and high schools in the form of public, private and international institutions for all ages. The University of Namibia can also be found here along with other specialized training colleges.

HEALTH CARE

There is a Medicity Private Hospital in Windhoek along with 9 additional healthcare facilities to see to any needs. Nearer to Swakopmund is a local Mediclinic, Cottage Private Hospital, Swakopmund Hospital and Bismarck Medical Centre.