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When we talk about generational wealth, we’re talking about the kind of financial security that can be passed down from one generation to the next. For many, property investment stands at the heart of that goal.
It’s not just about owning land or a house; it’s about building a foundation that ensures long-term financial stability and growth for future generations. Owning property can offer more than just a home. It can become a vehicle for wealth creation, a hedge against inflation, and a tangible asset that holds its value, even in uncertain economic times. When managed with care, real estate becomes more than just a place to live — it transforms into an asset that can support future generations.
The value of property often appreciates over time, but its true power lies in the foresight and planning of how it’s managed. This is where Zimbali Estate has turned the page when it comes to defining what premier residential community living is in South Africa.
Zimbali Estate’s vision of being ‘the most authentic and sustainable lifestyle estate in the world’ is far from a dream — it’s a reality in progress. In community living environments, success can be all but guaranteed, if you have the right ingredients — a future-focused board of directors, as well as investors who understand and support the structures that govern the community and have the courage to implement a management structure that empowers professional staff and their teams to roll out the vision. This relationship is not built on mere trust, but on planning, good governance and implementation. Getting this combination and level of collaboration is rare and sought after, and in the context of Zimbali Estate one could say it took 28 years to achieve this ‘overnight’ success.
SO, HOW IS ZIMBALI ESTATE BECOMING A GLOBAL PLAYER?
Zimbali Estate has established itself as a vibrant community with a prestigious reputation, thanks to its prime location, lush environmental assets, and acclaimed 18-hole championship golf course. As the community continues to evolve, it embraces opportunities to modernise its infrastructure and architectural style, ensuring that it remains a sought-after destination. Situated in one of KwaZulu-Natal’s fastest-growing areas, Zimbali Estate continues to revitalise its image and to position itself for an even brighter future.
THE KEY TO SUCCESS: A FUTURE-FOCUSED BOARD
The pivotal moment for Zimbali Estate was the election of a forward-thinking board of directors, supported by its residents. This isn’t just about electing a group of people — it’s about choosing leaders with the vision and courage to guide the estate into its next phase. A future-focused board is free from personal agendas and petty politics, and instead prioritises what’s best for the estate: reinvestment, revitalisation, and strict enforcement of estate rules.
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The board appointed CEO François Schoeman, one of the few South Africans with a Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) qualification as well as an MBA, and the estate embarked on a path toward global recognition. The board focused on empowering a professional management team and enhancing the estate’s infrastructure to meet the demands of a global audience.
FAST FORWARD TO 2024: A PREMIER DESTINATION
Zimbali Estate has now perfected the essentials: pristine streets, beautifully maintained gardens, reliable utilities, and exceptional service in its restaurants. The estate now features around 1,430 homes, a mix of freehold and sectional title properties, eight restaurants, two luxury hotels — The Capital Zimbali and Zimbali Lodge — and a wide range of facilities including tennis courts, an indoor gym, mountain- bike and walking trails, and direct beach access. The award-winning 18-hole golf course, ranked No. 1 in KwaZulu-Natal, draws enthusiasts from around the globe.
‘We’ve shifted the focus from the microelements to the macro elements of the estate. We don’t manage Zimbali Estate like a traditional estate; we manage it as a long-term investment and a global opportunity,’ says Schoeman. This approach has allowed Zimbali Estate to remain relevant while planning for the future.
STRENGTH IN STRUCTURE: THE FOUNDATION OF ZIMBALI ESTATE’S SUCCESS
Zimbali Estate’s transformation into a global leader is no accident. It is the result of careful planning, strong governance, and a clear long-term vision. The estate’s board structure — where one-third of the board rotates per election — ensures continuity while introducing fresh ideas. Additionally, two appointed directors represent the estate’s commercial entities, providing further stability.
This consistency has allowed Zimbali Estate to maintain its strategic vision, even as board members come and go. ‘Zimbali has had this consistent strand of strategic vision, something that’s evolved over the years but is always built on a solid foundation,’ explains Schoeman.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES WITH INNOVATION
One of the key challenges that Zimbali Estate faced was ensuring that all aspects of the estate present the brand ethos; this included managing short-term rentals. With the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast being a top tourist destination, Zimbali Estate sees an influx of visitors.
The challenge was twofold: how to ensure that all visitors enjoy a consistent ‘Zimbali Estate Experience’, and how to maintain the high standards of short-term rental properties, many of which are owned by investors living overseas or in other parts of South Africa. The solution was multifaceted. Zimbali Estate implemented a property grading system, in collaboration with the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, ensuring that all homes meet national standards. Whether a property is graded three-star or five-star, guests can expect the same level of quality as they would find elsewhere in South Africa.
On the security front, a digital platform was developed to streamline guest access. An app was introduced where bookings are made, and guest details are cross-checked with the Home Affairs database. Upon arrival, guests’ QR codes are scanned at the gate, verifying their identities and ensuring that the right individuals are accessing the estate. A 24-hour advance booking policy was also implemented to prevent last-minute complications.
For property owners, it’s now mandatory to register homes as short-term rentals, ensuring that they meet the estate’s stringent standards. These measures have not only improved the guest experience but also maintained Zimbali Estate’s reputation for excellence
LOOKING AHEAD: A GLOBAL PLAYER IN THE MAKING
With its robust management, future-focused board, and commitment to maintaining the highest standards, Zimbali Estate is well-positioned to claim its place as a global player in the property market. What started as a residential community has evolved into a long-term investment opportunity, paving the way for future generations and setting a new standard for estate living.
