When Dr. A. and Dr. N. Classens decided to make Richards Bay their home, they had no idea how the journey would unfold. What started as a vacation in September 2024 turned into a life-changing experience that would see them relocate more than 10,000 miles from their home in North Carolina to start a new chapter in South Africa.
Their story is about more than just finding the perfect house; it's about the people who helped them navigate each step of the way-especially the team at Seeff Richards Bay, who played a pivotal role in making their dream a reality.
In their own words, the Classens share their experience: "Seeff Richards Bay can transform your life."
The Search for a Second Home
Having lived in North Carolina for over 40 years, Dr. A. and Dr. N. had grown accustomed to the pleasant weather of the Piedmont area, enjoying it for more than eight months a year. However, now that they were retired, they began to search for a place to spend their "good weather" months, a vacation spot where they could enjoy easy living in their retirement years.
Their journey led them to Richards Bay in South Africa, and that's when they discovered Seeff Richards Bay.
"We were referred to Seeff Richards Bay and immediately met with Elijah Chetty" they recall. "On our initial visit, Elijah listened intently to what we described as our ideal home and promptly presented us with three properties that matched our criteria."
Elijah's understanding of their needs and limited travel schedule ensured that the homes presented were not only suitable but also realistic. With Elijah leading the way, the couple toured the three properties, ultimately deciding on one that felt like the perfect fit.
Though the process wasn't without its challenges, the Classens are quick to acknowledge that they couldn't have completed their purchase without the dedication of Elijah Chetty and the Seeff Richards Bay team.
"When we made our offer, Elijah started the process immediately," they explain.. "He coordinated with a conveyancer group, bond holders, and mortgage lenders, providing us with clear instructions along the way. We returned to the States at the end of September, expecting the purchase to take about three months. To our surprise, it took five months to finalize the deal, given the complexities of an international transaction."
As with many overseas buyers, the Classens faced a host of hurdles, documentation issues, residency status challenges, and the intricacies of international banking and financial exchanges. To manage the paperwork, they hired a concierge service to handle digital documents and certifications.
Despite these hurdles, Elijah's unwavering support made all the difference. "He truly acted as a buyer's advocate, guiding us through the maze of paperwork and communication issues. No matter the time zone, Elijah was always available to help," they say. "Whether it was responding to our questions in the middle of the night or resolving issues with the seller or conveyancer, Elijah's patience and professionalism was extraordinary."
A Smooth Transition to Richards Bay
By February 2025, the Classens had completed their long-awaited move to Richards Bay, taking possession of their new home. Even after the sale was finalised, Elijah remained a valuable resource, offering assistance with everything from insurance and banking to local utilities and maintenance services.
"He provided us with referrals for everything: plumbing, pool service, security, and more," the couple notes. "He even helped us find great places to eat and shop for furniture and appliances."
Their journey is a reminder that it's never too late to take control of your future. Whether you're seeking a holiday getaway or a permanent move, Seeff Richards Bay expertise can help turn your dream into a reality.
As Dr. A. and Dr. N. Classens conclude, "Whether you are young or old, and you are looking for a realtor who can help you enjoy the benefits of living in Richards Bay, you will want to contact Elijah Chetty at Seeff Richards Bay. Seeff Richards Bay can transform your life too."