Property

New luxury development launching in Cape Town

Kirsten Minnaar • 12 September 2025

Cape Town’s new Vanderbilt Foreshore development will offer 77 boutique apartments from R1.395 million, presenting investors with an affordable opportunity in one of the city’s booming property markets.

The project is spearheaded by key members of the team behind The One, Stellenbosch and The Rockefeller Hotel & Residences.

Vanderbilt will bring studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments to market, officially launching to the public online on Thursday, 16 October 2025, at 11:00.

With prices starting from R1.4 million on launch day, Vanderbilt offers an entry point into Cape Town’s central property market.

Ordinary prices will be set at R1.45 million for a studio, R2.95 million for a one-bedroom, and R3.8 million for a two-bedroom apartment.

Once seen as the quiet edge of the CBD, Foreshore has become one of Cape Town’s most sought-after precincts. According to research by property data specialist Lightstone, the Foreshore’s residential population has grown more than fourfold since 2011.

This has been driven by higher household incomes and the appeal of city-centre living. Yet, opportunities to buy here remain scarce.

Lead developer Dani Machet explained that the latest addition to the property market responds to Cape Town’s evolution.

“The Foreshore has shifted from potential to reality. Vanderbilt is attainable, aspirational and tailored to how people want to live and invest in Cape Town today,” Machet said.

Ideally located between the CBD and the harbour, Vanderbilt places residents within walking distance of the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the Canal District and leading hotels, with direct links to the N1, N2 and Cape Town Station.

Apartments are light-filled and contemporary, featuring curated finishes, sleek layouts and expansive glazing. Select homes boast city, harbour or mountain views, and all are supported by uninterrupted power, 24-hour security and pet-friendly living.

Beyond the apartments, residents enjoy direct access to The Rockefeller’s amenities, including a rooftop pool, spa, gym, restaurants and co-working lounges.

Apartments are available with tailored furniture packages, a convenience for residents and a requirement for those opting into Vanderbilt’s fully managed short-term rental programme.

Opportunity for investors

Recognising the strength of Cape Town’s short-stay and corporate rental market, Vanderbilt has partnered with Propr, a leading property management company, to offer fully managed rental services.

This allows investors to generate effortless returns in one of the city’s most competitive locations. With demand for rental property in Foreshore soaring, both professionals and visitors are drawn to its central location.

Studios and one-bedroom apartments are particularly attractive for short-term letting. Airbnb occupancies in the area have reached as high as 84% in peak summer months. For investors, that means strong yield potential and year-round rental interest.

The group estimates that Vanderbilt’s monthly short-term net rental income will be between R15,037 (studio) and R27,447 (two-bedroom).

Vanderbilt’s partnership with Propr offers professional listing setup and optimisation on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.

It also offers dynamic pricing, guest communication and vetting, cleaning, restocking services, on-demand support, and detailed monthly performance statements.

“Owners can enjoy the returns of Airbnb without the day-to-day demands of hosting,” Machet explained.

“This fully managed approach transforms a Vanderbilt apartment into a stress-free investment, combining lifestyle flexibility with consistent returns. An on-site reception and direct access to The Rockefeller facilities further enhance every stay.”

To celebrate its launch, buyers will enjoy savings of R50,000 off studios, R75,000 off one-bedroom apartments, and R100,000 off two-bedroom apartments – available on launch day only.