Retire in SA

[JK]

I am living in the US. I would like to retire and live in SA.
Maybe someone can provide me with some good info so I can make some good decisions.

Answer a few questions and add any helpful info you have.

Can a US citizen own property in SA.?

I've seen real estate ads on the NET at escapeartist.com with some nice property for sale. If you go to that site and look SA, there are some places $110,000 to $176,000
but I don't know if they would be considered good ares to live in or what?

I keep seeing postings on Club South Africa where people are asking how safe is it. Could someone please expound on that subject. Like, could a forigner feel safe to live and mind thier own busines in a rural area or not?

SA, from all I've seen and heard is a beautiful country. I'm just looking for a great place like that to kick back and be comfortable.

Any info would be very appreciated.

Thanks, Joe

[Allan]

Hi

Foreigners can buy property in South Africa, it's actually a booming market especially around Cape Town. Even a British or US street sweeper could afford to live like a king if he converted his salary to Rands with the current exchange rate.

A house selling for US $ 150 000 couldn't possibly be in a bad area. That converts to nearly R2 million which (unless this site is specificly ripping off foreigners) would buy you an incredible home.

Safety / crime - that is a definite problem and varies from area to area, (although not as bad as some people like to make out). If you're buying a home worth R2 million, it couldn't possibly be in a bad area.

Why don't you visit the country first just to see for yourself before you make any commitment.

[JK]

Originally posted by Allan
Hi

Foreigners can buy property in South Africa, it's actually a booming market especially around Cape Town. Even a British or US street sweeper could afford to live like a king if he converted his salary to Rands with the current exchange rate.

A house selling for US $ 150 000 couldn't possibly be in a bad area. That converts to nearly R2 million which (unless this site is specificly ripping off foreigners) would buy you an incredible home.

Safety / crime - that is a definite problem and varies from area to area, (although not as bad as some people like to make out). If you're buying a home worth R2 million, it couldn't possibly be in a bad area.

Why don't you visit the country first just to see for yourself before you make any commitment.

Allan,
Thanks for your reply. I am seriously considering a trip to check it out as you suggested.

[julesartie]

Dear Junior Member

I know that you wrote quite a while back.
Consider this.Want beautiful oceans living on
one of the most beautiful golf estates in Southern Africa.
We Julie and Ilona have some friends who are selling some
beautiful property in the Knysna , garden route area
and can put you into direct contact (if you are interested)
with the owner.This also happens to be the safest, unspoilt
areas of South Africa.Its a pretty upmarket area.
Will give you a tip as have looked on escapeartist sight
before and is definetly overpriced.
The two properties I am talking of are overlooking
ocean views, big eight roomed houses and at
pretty acceptable prices.If you are interested in
getting more information then email at Julesartie@hotmail.com