South Africa’s repo rate remains at 7%, with the prime lending rate holding at 10.50%, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) confirmed after its latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.
READ: SA Reserve Bank holds rates steady
Governor Lesetja Kganyago said the decision gives households and businesses “breathing space” while the Bank continues to monitor inflation and economic growth. “Four members preferred to keep rates on hold, while two favoured a 25-basis-point cut,” he added.
For homeowners, an unchanged lending rate means monthly bond repayments stay the same - welcome relief for buyers managing tight budgets and for investors balancing rental yields. With spring traditionally the busiest season for property sales, steady borrowing costs are expected to support activity in well-priced segments.
READ: Interest rates remain unchanged: Opportunities for investors
Semigration fuels demand across the Cape
Semigration remains one of South Africa’s hottest property trends, with people from across the country relocating to Cape Town and its surrounds. This surge has significantly boosted demand across a range of suburbs, says Quay 1 International Realty.
Southern Suburbs: Lifestyle meets top schools
Areas in the Southern Suburbs like Constantia, Newlands and Rondebosch have remained extremely popular for most buyers. What attracts buyers to these areas is mainly the proximity to most schools, as well as the lifestyle that’s on offer. These areas are predominantly quiet and are surrounded by nature and popular walking/hiking trails. However, these areas carry high price tags for property, notes Quay 1 International Realty.
READ: South Africa's rental market: Slower growth, stronger tenants
Some buyers want a more coastal lifestyle, so areas like Noordhoek and Kommetjie along the South Peninsula are increasingly becoming more popular. These areas have a more relaxed feeling and have lots of open spaces, giving buyers from the city that sense of space/freedom without compromising on convenience.
Affordable coastal living
Buyers can also seek the coastal lifestyle in Bloubergstrand and Big Bay along the Western Seaboard; there are more affordable beachfront options here compared to the Atlantic Seaboard, and they have great amenities, says Quay 1 International Realty.
Lastly, there has been strong growth in some of the Northern Suburbs, like Durbanville, as the properties are more spacious and affordable. The infrastructure continues to improve, and there are some great schools in the vicinity.
READ: Lesser-known neighbourhoods with homes under R2m in Gauteng's popular suburbs
With all things considered, most suburbs in Cape Town and the surrounding areas have experienced a strong increase in demand as more people move down to our beautiful city. "We expect this trend to continue in the next few years to come," notes Quay 1 International Realty.
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