As South Africa moves into winter, a seasonal dip in property transactions is expected, however this period is proving to be less of a freeze and more of a strategic pause. For buyers, investors and developers alike, winter is no longer simply a slow season. It’s an opportunity to recalibrate and act decisively in a market that continues to evolve.
READ: Homebuying tips: Maximising your investment this season
While historically viewed as a quieter season for real estate, winter has become a time when shrewd buyers make calculated moves. Properties that may have lingered on the market since summer can now come with more room for negotiation. With less buyer competition and sellers looking to secure deals before the spring uptick, winter provides leverage for those who are prepared.
John Herbst, CEO of Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), notes: “There’s a growing awareness that the property market is no longer strictly seasonal in the way it once was. Winter might cool activity, but it sharpens focus. We’re seeing serious buyers use this time to identify long-term investments, whether it’s relocating to lifestyle estates or acquiring rental stock in high-demand urban hubs.”
Where are buyers putting their money?
Western Cape: Buy-to-let and semigration appeal
The Western Cape remains one of the most resilient markets in the country, with consistent demand from semigrating professionals, retirees, and young families. This has fuelled the buy-to-let market, particularly in areas like the Southern Suburbs, Century City, and parts of the West Coast.
“Investors are zeroing in on areas with strong rental yields and lifestyle appeal,” says Herbst. “With persistent demand from incoming professionals and limited supply, well-positioned buy-to-let properties are performing particularly well, even in winter.”
Smaller towns and secondary cities
Coastal towns like Hermanus, George, and St Francis Bay continue to see steady interest, especially among remote workers and retirees looking for quality of life. What’s notable this year is the growth of demand in secondary inland cities such as Bloemfontein and Polokwane, where infrastructure has improved, and affordability remains a key drawcard.
READ: Financial planning is key to a stress-free home purchase
Eastern Cape: The new holiday-home hotspot
Once overshadowed by the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape is enjoying a quiet boom. Towns like Kenton-on-Sea and Jeffreys Bay are increasingly popular for holiday homes that double as short-term rental investments.
“Value-for-money is playing a huge role,” says Herbst. “Buyers are branching out, and the Eastern Cape is benefiting from that shift, particularly among second-home purchasers who want lower holding costs and relaxed coastal living.”
First-time buyers: Heading to the heartland
In provinces like the Free State and parts of Mpumalanga, affordability continues to attract first-time buyers. With interest rate cuts anticipated later this year, more young professionals are expected to enter the market through joint purchasing and collective saving models.
Emerging buyer behaviour
Winter 2025 is highlighting key behavioural shifts:
Long-term thinking over quick turnover: Buyers are prioritising location, infrastructure and future value over short-term gains.
Security and lifestyle integration: Lifestyle estates offering security, fibre connectivity, schools and leisure facilities remain a top choice, especially in colder months, when indoor amenities become even more valuable.
Energy resilience is non-negotiable: With load shedding an ongoing concern, solar panels, inverters and energy-efficient designs are major selling points regardless of season.
Herbst concludes: “Winter separates speculative buyers from serious ones. Those who understand market timing are not waiting for warmer weather, they’re acting now, informed by data, long-term vision, and the need for homes that work year-round.”
READ: Homebuyers: 9 things no-one tells you about owning a home
Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty in Johannesburg and Randburg, shares the idea of homeownership as the holy grail of adulthood and evidence of success has been ingrained in us for generations and property still remains one of the best long-term investments, so many people are in a quandary about whether to delay the purchase or bite the bullet and get a foot on the property ladder no matter the consequences
“But it’s not a simple choice as each option offers distinct benefits and drawbacks and with the economic fluctuations, high interest rates and uncertainties that we’re seeing, it’s essential to carefully assess one’s current financial situation and long-term goals before committing to either option.”
Advantages of Ownership:
Building Equity:
One of the most significant advantages of homeownership is building equity. As you make mortgage payments, you are gradually increasing your ownership stake in the property. Over time, this equity can serve as a valuable asset and a potential source of wealth.
Stability and Freedom:
Owning a home provides stability and the freedom to personalize and modify the property to suit your preferences. You have more control over your living space and can make long-term plans without concerns about lease expirations or rent hikes.
Tax Benefits: Homeownership can come with tax advantages, such as deducting mortgage interest and property taxes from your taxable income. These benefits can help reduce your overall tax liability.
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