“There’s no doubt that the increase in travel costs as well as the time constraints of today’s busy lifestyle are contributing to a desire to acquire a leisure property which is within quick and easy reach for weekend getaways and holiday breaks during the year,” says Medlock.

“We see this as a growing trend, with our current buyers mainly from Johannesburg’s northern suburbs as well as the East Rand areas of Boksburg and Benoni. Another reason for the increasing activity in Vaal Dam properties is the value for money of properties, however, one of the key attractions of the dam remains the good water quality and the vastness of the area even during peak holiday periods.

With a shoreline of over 900km there is plenty of space for boating and of course the scenic surrounds make this a highly appealing leisure destination for rest and relaxation,” he says.

Medlock notes a significant shift in the market in recent months, with a number of properties being sold as second homes or leisure properties. “Waterfront homes still remain a priority for purchasers, and recent sales by PGP include a six bedroom, waterfront home set on two hectares with exceptional entertainment areas and over 80 metres of waterfront, which sold for R4.5 million.

“Other notable sales by our office were a four bedroom house located in a secure complex in Deneysville which was sold for R2.2 million, and an incomplete property in the same complex which fetched R1.2 million. All these properties were sold to buyers from the greater Johannesburg area who were looking for a holiday home within an easy 60 minute commute from the city – which the Vaal Dam offers.

Medlock says further positive news is the recently launched Ambermere Lifestyle Estate, set on over 300ha. All the infrastructure on the estate is already in place, and the first marina – with walk-on jetties, has been completed.