Insights into current residential auction trends

Are you curious about the world of auction markets? Discover where investors are making their moves, what they're buying, and what's in high demand, all within a wide range of prices.

It’s most definitely a buyer’s market at the moment everywhere except Cape Town. According to, Greg Dart, Director High Street Auctions.

"High Street Auctions usually works in the higher end of the residential market, and for the past couple of years the most activity – particularly in Gauteng – has been working with sellers who are semigrating or emigrating. Being that it is a buyer’s market, sellers often come to us after working with brokers for some time, and finding that their properties just don’t move. Often these sellers have already relocated and their homes are standing empty. They work with reputable auction companies like High Street because they understand we have the marketing reach, the buyer networks and the transactional platforms to effect fast sales at fair market prices.

READ: Deceased estates offer excellent property investment opportunities + tips to purchase via auction

Immaculate 4 bedroom home in an exclusive estate in Roodepoort

Bordering the Ruimsig Country Club is an elegantly designed 4 bedroom home in the very exclusive Serengeti Estate Each bedroom offers a walk-in closet, full bathroom and it's own balcony with stunning views. A spacious mahogany fitted kitchen with separate scullery is where the heart of every home is. Gorgeous entertainment area with built-in bar opening out onto a stretch heated pool with a covered patio on either side. Click here to view.

What age group is investing in auction properties currently?

In luxury price bands there are fewer young buyers. Buyers are 35 and upwards, with the majority being in the 40+ age group; people who have had years to establish themselves and accrue savings through investments or trading up the property ladder.

Where are they buying?

The coast is still very popular. Semigration to the Western Cape has not abated, and the north coast of KZN is popular as well. For people whose work commitments keep them in Gauteng, the trend is estate living. The pandemic taught us some very valuable lessons, but chief amongst them is that quality of life is important. People are putting a premium on family time, safety and environment. If they have to be in the city, they want quality of life for their families. This is also the sentiment behind the semigration drive.

Exquisite waterfront estate in Vanderbijlpark

This home features 9 bedrooms , 3 bedroom cottage,  private jetty, boathouses, heated pool, hangar, domestic accommodation, and helicopter landing. Approved for 6 additional homes. Enjoy privacy and safety among neighbouring business owners. A rare opportunity for luxury living and investment in a prestigious setting. Click here to view. 

What is selling, and what is the price range that selling fastest?

High Street Auctions does not work much in the lower end of the market. Our properties in this segment are usually multiple purchases by investor buyers. Buyer wish lists include independent energy supplies, security, lifestyle amenities and proximity to good schools. Properties in the R2 million to R4m bracket move, as do properties above R20m, because buyers in that range have fewer concerns about financing and cash flow restrictions. But ultimately sellers need to keep in mind that it is a buyer’s market and price realistically. If a buyer has R4m to spend in Gauteng, he or she is likely to have a choice of 15 homes in a suburb, so sellers need to adapt. The only market that’s different right now, is Cape Town.

READ: Online property auctions: Dos and don’ts for sellers and buyers

Tanya Jovanovski and Kelly Huber, franchisees of Rawson Auctions Western Cape, says they have experienced that any property that is well priced sells well. Sellers are currently wanting 20% over market value. Those sellers needing a quick sale and market their properties accordingly get rewarded with a sold sign!

Gorgeous two-bedroom home, fully secure in Stellenbosch

This immaculate two-bedroom house is more than just a property, it’s a lifestyle opportunity that harmoniously blends in with modern living with naturel beauty. With plethora of amenities at your fingertips a thoughtfully designed interior, home ready to embrace a new family. Click here to view. 

Which age group is investing in the current auction market and where are the most popular locations?

At the moment a lot of people are moving from Pretoria and Johannesburg to Cape Town. So many are purchasing property via auction sales in Cape Town. Also areas like Mossel Bay and the outskirts of Cape Town are popular such as Malmesbury, as there is a lot of  farms / agricultural and commercial property going on auction. Other popular areas for residential property going on auction are the coastal towns are garden route, mainly guest houses / B&B's, these areas have enjoyed a lot of attention from buyers in their mid-40s looking to retire soon. 

What are they purchasing, and what is the most popular property type that is selling?

It's varied according to the buyers needs from fully operational farms to guest houses and residential homes. 

Vacant erf with barn in Swellendam 

Land with barn, suitable for livestock, building a home and grow own produce. Late estate, subject to master’s approval. Click here to view. 

What is the most popular property price ranges.

Pricing depends entirely on the area's for example the reserve price set for a conference and lodge in Scherpenheuwel, Worcester was at R7.5 million. The reserve price for a farm in Laingsburg Rural is R9 million. 

Residential properties and vacant land can start from R850 000 depending on the area, size and features.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE PROPERTIES ON AUCTION

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