Once known as Witbank due to its rocky outcrop of white sandstone, today the town goes by the name of Emalahleni, meaning "place of coal". This coal-mining town, situated in the Highveld region of Mpumalanga in Nkangala District Municipality, has become a popular residential destination for tenants.
There a number of reasons that the property market here is flourishing, from a growing commercial sector that is attracting an influx of employees who are renting homes close to their place of employment, to families who see the town as a great place to bring up their children.
Analysing tenant activity shows that the most popular property types are two and three bedroom apartments and townhouses between the price range of R5 000 and R15 000/pm. Due to these requirements, the Emalahleni suburbs of Reyno Ridge and Del Judor are becoming popular options.
For example, Del Judor has a vibrant rental market due to its affordable apartments, many of which are newly built, modern, and complete with a carport, 24hr security and access control. For all these features, a two-bedroom unit can easily start from R5000/pm.
Reyno Ridge has a similar rental market with modern, secure and affordable apartments. For as little as R5500/pm, tenants can rent out a two-bedroom unit in a secure complex that is complete communal spaces with built-in-braai areas and swimming pools, garden services and 24-hour security.
If you're thinking about, or in the process of relocating to Emalahleni, it is reassuring to know that the town is home to a booming commercial market, trendy amenities and unique attractions. This is what you can expect from your new home town.
The Highveld Mall
Emalahleni is widely considered the retail hub of the province and encapsulating this is the magnificent, Highveld Mall. Currently, it is the biggest shopping mall in Mpumalanga and is home to 180 retail and food outlets as well as a large movie complex.
Other prominent malls in the area:
- Saveways Crescent Centre
- Highland Mews
- Highveld Centre
- KG Mall
The Maputo Corridor
Emalahleni benefits from two key freeways that have opened the door for fun and adventure for residents - the N4 from Pretoria and the N12 from Johannesburg. These freeways merge to form the Maputo Corridor, which leads to the town of Komatipoort where you can find beautiful thatched roof lodges perfect for weekends away. As you go further along, the town leads to the renowned Kruger National Park which is home to the "Big 5" and five-star game lodges. The final stop along the route will bring you to Mozambique - a tropical paradise with turquoise beaches, golden sands and adrenaline pumping water activities.
SA's Coal Mining Capital and More
As mentioned, employment opportunities are a major reason the residential market continues to grow in the town. In fact, extensive commercial developments have boosted the population size from 60,000 to over 300,000 in the last 10 years as more people flock to the town for financial stability.
The biggest industry here, is, of course, coal-mining, with about 20 collieries established here. It is also home to a number of power stations such as Duvha, Kendal and the new Kusile station. And although it has claimed the title of "SA's coal mining capital", the economy has diversified to include a range of other industries which is further driving employment opportunities. Here you can find international companies such as Anglo American, Evraz, BHP Billiton, Exxaro, Joy, Komatsu, the Renova Group and SAB-Miller to name a few.
Schools and Hospitals
Residents with children can also expect a number of top-notch schools, which include more than 12 primary schools, six public and private high schools and a campus of the Tshwane University of Technology. While, for medical care, it is home to Emalahleni Private Hospital, Life Cosmos Hospital and Advanced De La Vie Day Hospital.
To find out more about the available rental properties in Emalahleni, speak to us at CSi Property Group today.