Construction has begun on La’Mare, an 84-apartment sectional-title development on Bayview Road in Hout Bay, as Merelava Property Developments seeks to address growing demand for well-priced homes in the coastal suburb.
Source: Supplied. The official sod-turning ceremony marks the commencement of construction at La’Mare, an 84-residence development on Bayview Road. Pictured from left: Paramount chief Regan James; Gavin Meskin, managing director of Merelava Property Developments; Councillor Roberto Quintas; and chief Basil Van Der Ross.
The project was officially launched at a sod-turning ceremony attended by representatives of the development team, local government and community leadership. Recent Property24 data highlights the limited supply of sectional-title properties in the area, with just 35 one- and two-bedroom units listed for sale. Average asking prices stand at approximately R2.55m and R4.5m respectively.
"Demand for modern, well-priced homes in Hout Bay continues to outpace supply," says Gavin Meskin, managing director of Merelava Property Developments. "With limited stock available and properties selling relatively quickly, there is a clear opportunity to introduce a development that responds to what buyers are looking for. La’Mare has been designed with that demand in mind."
Strong demand, limited supply
Hout Bay's property market has seen a notable shift towards sectional-title ownership, supported by buyers seeking a more accessible entry point into the coastal property market. With freestanding homes averaging approximately R5.9m, apartments offer an increasingly attractive alternative.
Matthew McWilliams, co-founder and chief operating officer of Revo, the development's appointed sales partner, says transaction times demonstrate the strength of this demand.
"Sectional-title properties in Hout Bay are selling in approximately 45 days, compared with 107 days for freestanding homes. That difference speaks to the demand for apartments, particularly in the two-bedroom category, where available stock remains extremely limited."
A compelling investment market
Hout Bay's established rental market further strengthens its appeal, attracting investors seeking rental income alongside long-term capital growth. Two-bedroom apartments typically command monthly rentals of between R19,000 and R36,000, compared with approximately R34,000 to R48,000 in neighbouring Atlantic Seaboard suburbs.
Deeds Office data indicate that buyers aged between 36 and 64 account for almost 70% of property transactions in Hout Bay, comprising semigrating families, working professionals, investors and retirees.
"Hout Bay attracts a broad range of buyers, which is an important consideration for investors," explains McWilliams. "There is strong demand for long-term rentals, supported by the area's residential appeal, alongside opportunities in the short-term accommodation market. Property values have also increased by almost 60% over the past five years, reinforcing the suburb's investment potential."
The appeal of Hout Bay
Beyond the property fundamentals, Hout Bay offers a distinctive coastal lifestyle within convenient reach of Cape Town's business and lifestyle destinations.
Set between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the suburb combines an established village atmosphere with excellent schools, local restaurants, retail amenities and extensive outdoor recreation. Its beaches, mountain trails, equestrian culture and dog-friendly shoreline contribute to an environment that continues to attract families, professionals and retirees.
La’Mare: 84 new coastal residences
Scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2027, La’Mare will comprise seven low-rise residential blocks, each accommodating 12 sea-facing apartments.
The development will offer one- and two-bedroom residences, alongside penthouses with generous entertainment balconies overlooking Hout Bay. Residents will benefit from high-speed fibre, 24-hour manned access control, an electrified perimeter and dedicated braai areas. The development will also be pet-friendly, subject to approval.
Apartments are priced from R1.995m, with no transfer duty payable.
A welcome addition to Hout Bay
The commencement of construction has also been welcomed by local government.
"The Heights commands some of the best views in the City of Cape Town," says Roberto Quintas, ward councillor and mayoral committee member for urban mobility. "With a panorama from Chapman's Peak across Hout Bay to the Sentinel Mountain, and the Karbonkelberg and its Table Mountain National Park reserve status behind the development, it really offers the best of sky, sea and berg.
"As the ward councillor for the area, I am excited to see this sustainable development bring new residents looking at buying 'affordable luxury' into our vibrant and diverse community."
With construction underway, La’Mare represents a timely addition to Hout Bay's residential market, introducing 84 new homes to a suburb where demand for sectional-title property continues to exceed available supply.
