Where to invest in property in South Africa (2024)

Property investment in South Africa is an excellent long-term investment strategy and one of the best ways to start off your property portfolio. Investment properties are purchased with the intention of earning a return through the rental of the property, the future resale of the property or both.

Here we will take you through one of the most important considerations when buying property in South Africa – location. A great location can mean different things to different people, for example, someone who loves the city would be willing to pay more to live in Sandton, Johannesburg whereas someone who loves nature would easily consider Noordhoek, Western Cape a better location.

Objective factors of a ‘good location’ include:

Centrality
Neighbourhood
Commercial development plans
Lot location (the actual position of the land)

Where to buy property in the Western Cape?

The Western Cape is home to a number of location gems when it comes to property investment. It has a strong housing market and average house price growth is on a positive trend.

Simon’s Town

Simon’s Town is known for its relaxed lifestyle and beautiful views. The area is currently undergoing commercial development and interest in the area continues to be on the rise.

Property in Simon’s Town is popular with buyers looking to invest away from the city whilst still enjoying the convenient amenities this quaint seaside village has to offer.

Noordhoek

Property in Noordhoek has the best from mother nature, from majestic mountain views to lush greenery and striking ocean views. According to Property 24, property in Noordhoek has shown excellent value growth with the average sale price moving from R2.8 million in 2015 to R4.75 million in 2018.

City Bowl

Property value in the City Bowl has remained stable over the past decade and is a popular choice for both foreign and local investors. The contained suburbs are positioned well, boasting centrality and proximity to schools and transport.

Where to buy property in Gauteng?

Commonly referred to as South Africa’s ‘economic powerhouse’, Gauteng is host to a number of fantastic property investment areas and is a cosmopolitan-rich region boasting residents from all walks of life.

Greater Sandton

Sandton and surrounding areas are perfect for people travelling within the area for business purposes as a large number of corporate firms base their offices here. Bryanston and Lonehill, situated close to the main Sandton city area are popular residential suburbs where the property price range is broad enough to leave you spoilt for choice, from apartments and townhouses to freestanding houses.

Randburg

Randburg’s popularity has been increasing due to the great convenience it provides residents. It has a number of shopping centres, healthcare facilities and offers a variety of attractions such as the Lion Park and Monte Casino.

Where to buy property in KwaZulu-Natal?

The Zulu Kingdom (KwaZulu- Natal) is famed for its beautiful beaches, cultural diversity and warm tropical weather. The housing market remains strong in KZN and is especially popular with people looking to invest in holiday-suitable property.

Umhlanga

Well-known for its year-long holiday vibe, Umhlanga is an affluent residential and commercial area frequented by both local and foreign visitors. While frontline properties (those situated close to the beach) in Umhlanga tend to hold high values and impressive value growth they are often difficult to attain for regular buyers. Consider areas slightly further away from the beach, such as Umhlanga Ridge or Prestondale.

Ballito

Another sought-after town in Kwazulu-Natal is Ballito which is situated about 40 kilometres north of Durban. Comprising of a number of secure, lifestyle estates the area is rich in amenities and tends to be a popular holiday choice for tourists and locals – perfect for a buy-to-let investment.

Once you’ve found a property in a desirable location,calculate your home loan affordabilityon the SA Home Loans website orcontact the SA Home Loans teamwho will help you through the process of applying for a home loan.

Source: SA Home Loans

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Where to invest in property in South Africa (2024)

FAQs

Where is the best place to invest in real estate in South Africa? ›

For good opportunities to invest, Stevens suggests "smaller towns near Cape Town like Hermanus, Onrus and Kleinmond to the East, or Langebaan and St Helena up the West Coast".

Is it worth investing in property in South Africa? ›

Property investment is not only a profitable endeavour, but a safe one. Investing in bricks-and-mortar remains the most reliable way to generate income over the long-term.

Where should a beginner invest in South Africa? ›

Top online brokers for beginners in South Africa in 2023
  • Alpaca Trading - the best broker for beginners in South Africa in 2023. ...
  • nextmarkets - Commission free real stocks and ETFs. ...
  • EasyEquities - Low trading fees and non-trading fees. ...
  • TradeZero - Real stocks and ETFs are commission-free.

Is property a good investment in South Africa 2023? ›

In South Africa, buying power will likely be on the decline, given that the typical bond repayment will be higher as the markets anticipate further interest rate hikes. Sadly this may price many more buyers out of the market or lower their expectations.

What are the 4 types of investments in South Africa? ›

Here are some of the different types of South African investment properties that can be acquired by investors based on their requirements:
  • Residential Investment Property. ...
  • Commercial Investment Property. ...
  • Retirement Investment Property. ...
  • Agricultural Investment Property. ...
  • Holiday Home Investment Property.

Where can I put my money to earn the most interest in South Africa? ›

The best interest rate is 12.24% offered by Access Bank Plc on a 5 year fixed deposit investment. This is the highest interest rate you will be able to get in South Africa.

Will property prices fall in South Africa? ›

As of July 2022, house prices in South Africa are expected to drop for the seventh consecutive year in 2022. Home sellers are being more realistic in their demands due to the post-COVID economic struggles.

Is it better to rent or buy a house in South Africa? ›

If you are financially secure and can sustain the mortgage loan repayments, then it is probably wise to invest in your own flat. The benefits of owning your own flat or house usually trump that of renting, he said. However, each option carries its own benefits and drawbacks.

Is Cape Town property a good investment? ›

There is excellent capital growth and return on investment in the area, which has shown great resilience, even when other parts of the country are facing challenging circ*mstances. The huge demand for properties to buy, and rent, continues to drive the property value upwards.

How to invest 3 million rand in South Africa? ›

Invest R3 million into the following portfolio, which broadly resembles a balanced investment:
  1. 40% FTSE/JSE All Share Index.
  2. 20% MSCI World NR USD.
  3. 30% BEASSA All Bond Index.
  4. 10% STeFI Call Deposit.
Aug 25, 2021

How to create wealth in South Africa? ›

Build generational wealth in South Africa
  1. Create a post-matric fund for your child.
  2. Invest in the stock market and buy property.
  3. Start a family business.
  4. Teach your loved ones about financial management.
  5. Transferring your wealth successfully.
Oct 13, 2022

What is the average return on investment in South Africa? ›

Stock market return (%, year-on-year) in South Africa was reported at 24.02 % in 2021, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources.

Will property prices fall in South Africa 2023? ›

“As there are no foreseeable prospects of higher prices going into next year, serious sellers should not waste the opportunity of a serious offer.” Dyer says investment properties will continue to gain ground in 2023.

Is it worth buying a house in South Africa? ›

There is no definitive answer as to whether it is better to rent or buy in South Africa in 2022. It depends on a number of factors, including your personal circ*mstances, financial situation and the property market in your area. If you are able to buy a property outright, then it may be a better option than renting.

Is it a good time to buy property in South Africa now? ›

Rode's advice that property is currently not a great asset flies in the face of what some other experts say: owning a home is a good investment, even in 2022, amid rising interest rates and cash-strapped consumers. But you may have to buy and play the waiting game.

What is the safest investment with the highest return? ›

9 Best Safe Investments with High Returns 2023
  • Overview: The 9 safest high-yield investments:
  • High-Yield Savings Accounts.
  • Money Market Funds (MMFs)
  • Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
  • U.S. Government Treasury Bills.
  • Corporate Bonds.
  • Fixed Annuities.
  • Dividend-Paying, Blue-Chip Stocks.
Feb 18, 2023

Which investments have the best returns in South Africa? ›

Best Safe Investments With High Returns in South Africa
  1. Government of South Africa Treasury Bills. ...
  2. Money Market Funds. ...
  3. RSA Retail Savings Bonds. ...
  4. Fixed Annuities. ...
  5. Dividend-Paying Stocks.
Jan 1, 2023

How much do you need to invest in real estate in South Africa? ›

“A deposit of R35 000 can secure you a property to the value of R1 million, and a deposit of just R18 800 can get your foot in the door with a property valued at R550 000.

How much interest can you earn on 1 million rand? ›

As an example, with an interest-focused investment of R1 million, generating a return of 6.7% over 12 months will mean a return of R67 000 for the year.

What is the maximum interest rate allowed in South Africa? ›

For mortgage agreements, the maximum interest rate credit providers can charge a consumer is 18.75% per annum.

How can I invest money wisely in South Africa? ›

5 steps to start investing
  1. Identify your goals, time frame and risk tolerance. Time horizon: Your time frame dictates your risk. ...
  2. Decide how much help you need. ...
  3. Choose your account type. ...
  4. Open your investment account. ...
  5. Deposit and invest.
Jun 13, 2022

Why is housing a problem in South Africa? ›

Causes of housing inadequacy in South Africa

These are as follows: The Apartheid government. Population growth (migration, urbanisation and demographics)

What adds value to a property in South Africa? ›

Upgrade your home security

In South Africa, this is possibly one of the most important features for resale value. Upgrading your home security will not only be lucrative for you when you decide to sell your property but also gives you peace of mind while you're an occupant.

Is building a house cheaper than buying in South Africa? ›

On average, the cost of buying a home is 20-30% cheaper than building one. Established properties are usually close to amenities such as schools, shopping areas, restaurants, major highways, and public transport.

How much of your salary should you spend on a house in South Africa? ›

As a rule of thumb, you should be setting aside 30% of your salary for the home loan repayments. This could change depending on interest rates, and whether you are applying for joint bond ownership with a spouse.

How much is an average house rent in South Africa? ›

The average rent increased by 0.8% year on year, from R7,854 per month in Q4 2020 to R7,906 in Q4 2021,” said PayProp.
...
How much money South Africans are spending on rent each month.
ProvinceAverage Rent
Western CapeR9 413
KwaZulu NatalR8 386
Northern CapeR8 287
GautengR8 253
5 more rows
Mar 12, 2022

What is the best time to buy a house in South Africa? ›

Sellers may tend to lower their price points in Autumn and Winter but it all depends on the markets and external factors at the time. Whenever you choose to buy your home, use your imagination to visualise whether this home and your lifestyle here will still suit you in the other seasons.

Can Americans buy property in Cape Town? ›

Foreigners (whether they be natural persons or legal entities normally domiciled or registered outside South Africa) can invest in property in this country, within limits. Non-residents' investments are not subject to South African tax.

What are the disadvantages of living in Cape Town? ›

Con: Finding the perfect place for you to live could be expensive. It is important to take into consideration that house prices are notoriously high, especially in certain parts of the city. Other expensive places to live include near the cities natural landmarks such as the beaches and mountains.

Where are the cheapest properties in South Africa? ›

Gauteng's South and East Rand has the lowest average house price at R1,183,032, said Dyer. The area has, however, interestingly registered a continual growth in prices. Gauteng is home to the largest percentage of potential first-time homebuyers in South Africa at 20.3%, while the Eastern Cape has the lowest.

How to save $1 million rand in 5 years? ›

1 million within five years by tripling the amount to R8 250 per month. This is where the power of compounding, and time, becomes so important. If you invested R2 750 per month for 15 years, you would have invested R495 000. If the investment grew at 10% per annum, it would be worth over R1.

How much interest will I earn on 2 million rand? ›

This falls into the ambit of financial planning, which we cannot do in this forum (we would need to do a full financial needs analysis). Factually, however, you can presently expect to earn interest of around 5%-6% pa (say 5,5%) which would equate to around R5 500 pm (before tax) on R1,2m.

How much is interest rate in South Africa? ›

In the long-term, the South Africa Interest Rate is projected to trend around 6.50 percent in 2024 and 6.00 percent in 2025, according to our econometric models. In South Africa, the interest rates decisions are taken by the South African Reserve Bank's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).

Why are millionaires leaving South Africa? ›

Safety concerns, rolling blackouts, corruption, and economic stagnation are just some of the motives behind high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) choosing to leave for overseas. Data from New World Wealth and Henley & Partners shows approximately 4 500 HNWIs have left South Africa over the past decade.

What do rich people do in South Africa? ›

A new report on the super rich found that about 30% of those in South Africa studied law, followed by finance and accounting. They mainly made their money in financial and professional services or real estate. Nearly half of SA's super rich either live in or have second homes on so-called lifestyle estates.

What is South Africa's biggest source of income? ›

South Africa: Economy
Economic TriviaSouth Africa has the largest economy in Africa.
Top IndustriesMining (Platinum, Gold, Chromium); Automobile Assembly; Metalworking; Machinery
1 more row

What is the minimum amount to invest in South Africa? ›

The minimum amount that can be invested is R1 000.00 and the investment may not exceed R5 million. More information on investing in RSA Retail Savings Bonds are available at: The RSA Retail Savings Bonds Website - RSA Retail Bonds. RSA Retail Savings Bonds Helpline : 012 315 5888.

Which bank has the best fixed deposit rate in South Africa? ›

African Bank

The first place goes to African Bank, which offers a nominal interest rate of 10.50% percent on a 60-month fixed deposit. 11.02% is the effective interest rate that is earned on the account. The account holder must maintain a minimum deposit of R500. 00 to earn the 10.50% nominal interest rate.

Is 7% return on investment realistic? ›

According to conventional wisdom, an annual ROI of approximately 7% or greater is considered a good ROI for an investment in stocks. This is also about the average annual return of the S&P 500, accounting for inflation. Because this is an average, some years your return may be higher; some years they may be lower.

Is South Africa a good place to invest in property? ›

South Africa boasts a good range of properties for buyers, whatever market you're looking to buy in. The CAHF splits the property market into five sections, as follows: Entry market (properties worth R300,000 or lower): 2.1 million properties (32%) Affordable market (R300,000–600,000): 1.4 million (21%)

Are property prices in Cape Town falling? ›

The year-on-year rate of increase in the two house price indices (Lightstone and FNB) moderated to 3.2% and 3.4%, respectively, in August 2022 — well below inflation. Consequently, the Reserve Bank noted, real house prices have declined on a year-on-year basis since December 2021 and by as much as 4.1% in July 2022.

Is it a buyers or sellers market in South Africa? ›

Is it a buyers or sellers market in South Africa? Despite recent interest rate hikes, as of July 2022 the South African property market remains a buyer's market for the time being. This is due to falling house prices. Unfortunately, this is partially due to people struggling to make payments in the wake of COVID.

Can I buy a house in America if I live in South Africa? ›

Anyone may buy and own property in the United States, regardless of citizenship. There are no laws or restrictions that prevent an individual of any foreign citizenship from owning or buying a home in the U.S.

What is the best way to buy property in South Africa? ›

Buying a house: Step-by-step guide
  1. Determine what you can afford.
  2. Assess your credit record.
  3. Hire an estate agent.
  4. Find your ideal home.
  5. Make an “offer to purchase”.
  6. Arrange a home inspection.
  7. Apply for a home loan.
  8. Transfer and bond registration.

Do you pay tax when buying a house in South Africa? ›

Transfer duty and admin costs

Transfer duty, unlike conveyancing fees, is non-negotiable. This amount is a tax paid by the buyer to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) within six months of the property transfer.

Where is property cheap in South Africa? ›

Gauteng's South and East Rand has the lowest average house price at R1,183,032, said Dyer. The area has, however, interestingly registered a continual growth in prices. Gauteng is home to the largest percentage of potential first-time homebuyers in South Africa at 20.3%, while the Eastern Cape has the lowest.

Where to invest now in South Africa? ›

The Top 5 Companies to invest in long-term:

✅ Absa Group – Leading South African JSE Listed Bank. ✅ Glencore – JSE Listed Commodity and Mining Company. ✅ Exxaro – Leading Long-Term Shares to Buy. ✅ Investec Ltd – Trusted Wealth Management Group.
...
This includes holding:
  • Bonds.
  • Stocks.
  • Exchange-Traded Funds.
  • Mutual Funds.

Is it a good time to buy property in South Africa? ›

A healthy appetite for risk among South Africa's banks

8 million or less, they can provide a lifeline for first-time buyers. It is important to be aware of the monthly costs of a 105% home loan, but this offering is a significant factor making 2022 a favourable time to enter the property market.

How to invest $100 000 rands? ›

Best Safe Investments in South Africa with High Returns:
  1. South African Government Treasury Bills.
  2. Money Market Funds.
  3. RSA Retail Savings Bonds.
  4. Fixed Annuities.
  5. Dividend-Paying Stocks.
Sep 30, 2022

Can Americans buy property in South Africa? ›

Foreigners (whether they be natural persons or legal entities normally domiciled or registered outside the country) can buy property in South Africa. Foreign buyers or non-residents must comply with local legislation in that regard.

How much is a decent house in South Africa? ›

The average price of homes transacted in November was R1.
...
This is how much the average house costs in South Africa.
#Average House PricePrice
1Major Metro AreasR1 213 493
2Upper Income AreaR2 641 917
3Middle Income AreaR1 396 396
4Lower Income AreaR868,887
3 more rows
Dec 14, 2015

What are the fast growing investments in South Africa? ›

Agriculture, telecommunication, banking, infrastructure, and oil & gas are some of the most rapidly growing sectors.

What is the best tax free investment in South Africa? ›

Best tax-free savings accounts in South Africa
  • African Bank TFSA.
  • Capitec TFSA.
  • Discovery TFSA.
  • ABSA TFSA.
  • Old Mutual TFSA.
  • Standard Bank TFSA.
  • Nedbank TFSA.
  • FNB TFSA.

How much money should I save before buying a house in South Africa? ›

The required deposit amount can range from a few thousand rand to 20% of the property purchase price, depending on the seller and estate agent. But most agreements call for a deposit of around 10% of the purchase price. Of course, the bigger your deposit, the better.

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