2025 is well on its way and is a popular time to buy and sell property as the South African real estate market offers exciting opportunities to do both.
READ: Top tips for buying your first home
David Jacobs, National Sales Manager for the Rawson Property Group, shares his expert advice to help you navigate the market effectively in 2025.
Understand the market before you act
Whether you’re buying or selling, Jacobs says the first step is understanding the current real estate landscape. Research your local market to identify average prices, demand trends, and stock availability, and don’t be afraid to mine your local real estate agents for on-the-ground insights and advice.
“For buyers, knowing the market helps you identify where the best value lies,” Jacobs explains. “Sellers, on the other hand, need to know how their property stacks up against similar homes to set a competitive asking price.”
Key factors like local infrastructure, school quality, and connectivity (such as fibre internet availability) can influence property desirability and pricing.
READ: Selling: How to attract buyers for your home in 2025
Tips for Buyers
Set a Realistic Budget
Jacobs cautions against stretching beyond your means. “Establish a clear budget and stick to it,” he advises. Buyers should also account for additional costs like bond registration, transfer duties, and ongoing maintenance.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Pre-approval is a must for buyers in today’s competitive market. “Pre-approval not only shows sellers that you’re serious, but it also gives you a clear idea of what you can afford,” Jacobs says. “This will save you time and prevent disappointments during the buying process.”
Know What You Want
Having a clear idea of your priorities – whether it’s proximity to work, schools, or specific features like energy efficiency – will help narrow your options and make the decision-making process smoother.
Partner with a Trusted Agent
“Working with a qualified real estate agent is invaluable,” Jacobs emphasises. “They know the market inside out and can guide you through negotiations, contracts, and the finer details of a transaction.”
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Tips for Sellers
Prepare Your Property for Sale
First impressions matter. “Start by decluttering and deep cleaning your home,” Jacobs recommends. “Small upgrades like a fresh coat of paint or fixing minor repairs can make a big difference.”
Set a Realistic Price
Pricing your property correctly is crucial. An overpriced home can linger on the market, while under-pricing could leave money on the table. “Your agent can provide a comparative market analysis to ensure your price aligns with local trends,” Jacobs explains.
Stage Your Home
Staging can highlight your property’s best features and help potential buyers envision themselves living there. “Simple touches like neutral décor, good lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere can create a lasting impression,” Jacobs suggests.
READ: The role of property agents in effective home staging
Claude McKirby, Co-Principle for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs and False Bay, in a recent article shared some of the most important do's and don'ts to guide homeowners, here is a look at those tips:
Do's of Home Staging
- Declutter and Depersonalise: Remove personal items, family photos, and excessive decorations. This helps potential buyers envision their own belongings in the space. Less clutter makes rooms appear larger and more inviting.
- Clean Thoroughly: A spotless home suggests that the property has been well-maintained. Pay attention to details, such as cleaning windows, carpets, and even the inside of appliances like ovens.
- Neutralise Colour Schemes: If you are going to give the place a fresh coat of paint, use neutral colours for walls and remove any décor that is too bold or quirky. While bold colours may appeal to some, neutral tones have a broader appeal and create a blank canvas for buyers' imaginations.
- Highlight Key Features: Draw attention to the property's best features, such as a fireplace, large windows, or hardwood floors. Use furniture and décor to frame and highlight these elements even if it means moving around some items to better highlight these features
- Improve Kerb Appeal: The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see. Ensure the lawn is mowed, hedges are trimmed, and the entrance is welcoming. Consider adding a fresh coat of paint to the front door and planting flowers or even placing attractive pot plants next to the entrance.
- Create a Cohesive Style: If you are going to bring in furniture or décor to fill up empty spaces and improve the overall effect or semi-furnish an empty property, choose a consistent style for furniture and décor that complements the home's architecture. This creates a harmonious look that is pleasing to the eye.
- Light It Up: Ensure all rooms are well-lit. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light and also use lamps and light fixtures to brighten darker areas. Good lighting makes spaces feel larger and more inviting.
Read: First-time homebuyers' fears - how to overcome them
Be Open to Negotiation
Jacobs advises sellers to approach offers with an open mind. “The best deal isn’t always the highest price – it’s the one that aligns with your timeline and terms,” he says.
“The property market is dynamic, and those who do their homework and act strategically will always come out ahead,” he says. “Whether you’re buying or selling, the key is preparation and partnering with professionals who understand the market.” The road to a successful property transaction starts with the right strategy. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions that lead to long-term success.
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