As Spring arrives in Johannesburg, the city is not just enjoying warmer weather - it’s also seeing one of the strongest home buying seasons in years. Activity levels are rising sharply, and many sellers are set to benefit from faster sales in the coming months.
Stephen Whitcombe, MD of Johannesburg-based FIRZT Realty, notes that the firm’s sales have increased consistently since the start of 2025. “With the effects of five interest rate cuts over the past year improving household finances, all the signs point to a bumper Spring and Summer season,” he says. “Buyer interest has accelerated, with more show day traffic, stronger offers, and faster conversions into sales than at any time since before the pandemic.”
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Whitcombe observes that, while the Western Cape has experienced years of strong value growth - around 9% annually - Greater Johannesburg only saw positive growth from August 2024. “However, momentum is building as the inventory of homes for sale shrinks, particularly in the sectional title sector,” he adds.
Sectional title properties are increasingly appealing to a wide range of buyers: first-time buyers, young professionals seeking urban convenience, seniors downsizing, foreign and expat executives, and buy-to-let investors. Yet, development is struggling to keep pace with demand. Nationally, only 5,472 new flats and townhouses were completed in the first half of the year - a 16% increase from 2024 - but in Johannesburg, most new developments are retained for rental rather than sale. Meanwhile, building plan approvals are down sharply: 39.9% in Gauteng and 29.2% in KZN, indicating constrained supply and likely upward pressure on prices.
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Several factors underpin this market optimism. Low inflation, political stability, growing safe-haven appeal, and strong consumer confidence are all contributing to increased activity. Absa’s recent survey found homeowner sentiment at 86% positive, with investor sentiment at 84%. The return of corporates and employees to Johannesburg offices, combined with seasonal family moves to align with schools or job changes, is also boosting demand.
Foreign interest is rising too, partly ahead of the G20 summit in November. Compared to other major metros, Johannesburg’s home prices remain competitive, attracting both local and international buyers.
Security, convenience, and self-sufficiency are top priorities for buyers, particularly in northern suburbs such as Dainfern and Steyn City. “Security is non-negotiable,” says Cilla Barath of Hamilton’s Property Portfolio. “Buyers look for estates with 24/7 manned access, CCTV, and armed response. For free-standing homes, integrated security systems are essential.”
Location and accessibility remain key. Proximity to Sandton, Rosebank, highways, shopping centres, private hospitals, and schools significantly influence buyer decisions. Utility resilience is also increasingly important, with solar and battery storage, water backup systems, gas cooking solutions, and fibre-ready infrastructure now considered essential rather than optional.
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Across Gauteng, the message is clear: buyers are seeking properties that balance lifestyle, convenience, and resilience. Whether it’s the lock-up-and-go appeal of urban apartments, family-friendly established suburbs, or self-sufficient homes in northern Johannesburg, today’s buyers are prioritising long-term value, security, and modern living.
