Cape Town summers are iconic. From sunset sundowners on the Atlantic Seaboard to morning hikes up Lions Head, there is a reason why people from all over the world are looking to call this city home.

However, living in paradise comes with its own set of unique challenges. If you are a homeowner or a tenant in the Mother City, you need to know how to navigate the wind, the fire season, and the summer crowds.

Here are some essential tips you need to ensure your property remains a sanctuary. Our goal is to help you enjoy the very best of what Cape Town has to offer.

Understanding The Famous Cape Doctor

Cape Town is famous for its South-Eastern wind, also known as the Cape Doctor. It blows strongest during the spring and summer months and is actually what causes the beautiful tablecloth of clouds to blow over Table Mountain.

The wind is quite difficult to avoid in Cape Town. As a buyer, you might view a property on a wind-free day, only to discover it is extremely windy once you move in. To ensure you make a wise investment, consider these points:

  • Research the climate: It’s best to research the specific climate of the area where you plan to live and adjust your expectations accordingly.

  • Check for winter winds: Whilst you can find a home in a wind-free zone for summer, be mindful that you might experience the North-Wester wind during winter.

  • Maximise your coverage: There are many ways to build and maximise the coverage of your home. This ensures that even on the windiest days, you can still spend time outside.

Protecting Your Home During The Fire Season

Summer is also fire season in Cape Town. We are lucky to have a world-class fire department, but homeowners must also play their part. It’s important to ensure your home stays safe during these months.

If you own property near the mountain slopes or forests, such as in Hout Bay or the City Bowl, you can help protect your home by following these steps:

  • Clean your gutters: Make sure your gutters are free of dry leaves. These can easily catch fire from floating embers.

  • Create a firebreak: If your home is on a mountain slope or near a forest, ensure you have a firebreak to protect the structure.

  • Update your insurance: Ensure your insurance company is aware of the risks posed by forest or mountain fires.

  • Keep details current: Always ensure your insurance policy is up to date.

Navigating The Summer Crowds And Traffic

Cape Town is a very desirable place to live and visit. Because of this, the city can get very busy during the spring and summer, when many people visit our shores and enjoy the beaches.

When you are looking to purchase a property, you need to think about the local environment.

If you plan to rely on street parking, make sure you understand which areas are busiest during peak season. This way, you won’t be surprised by the amount of traffic in your neighbourhood. This is especially important in popular areas ranging from Sunset Beach down to the Atlantic Seaboard.

Making The Most Of Mother City Living

Cape Town is a city for all seasons. Whether you are a local resident or visiting for the holidays, these tips will help you with home ownership and your stay in the city.

At RE/MAX Living, we have been operating for over 25 years. With 120 agents throughout Cape Town, we understand the local conditions better than anyone else. Whether you are buying a freehold home or a sectional title property, we are here to guide you through the process.