Townhouses: The perfect investment for both living and profit

Townhouses typically cost less than free-standing homes or apartments, making them an affordable option for first-time buyers or investors looking to enter the property market without breaking the bank.

Additionally, townhouses often have shared amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and parking, which can further reduce costs.

Classic modern double storey home in Craighall Park for R4.15 million

This stunning double-story 3-bedroom townhouse has beautiful bamboo flooring throughout downstairs - putting this home above the rest. Outside the house, there's a charming, covered patio where you have breakfast in the sun while taking a dip in the clean and sparkling pool. Click here to view. 

"We’re definitely seeing a growing demand for townhouses in Johannesburg. This is largely driven by urbanisation, affordability, and changing lifestyles. As more young professionals seek secure, low-maintenance and cost-effective housing, townhouses have become an attractive option," says  Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty in Johannesburg and Randburg. 

Odendaal says townhouses offer unique advantages that make them attractive for both investment and living purposes.

He shares some of the advantages of investing in a townhouse: 

Affordability:  Townhouses are more spacious than an apartment and usually have small gardens but they typically cost less than free-standing homes, making them an affordable option for first-time buyers or investors looking to enter the property market without breaking the bank.

Shared Expenses:  Costs for services like security, gardening and maintenance are divided among the property owners, reducing individual financial burdens.

Facilities:  Many townhouse developments have shared amenities like swimming pools, gyms, play areas and communal gardens.

Security: Enhanced security features like gated access, security personnel or surveillance systems and the presence of other residents provides a higher sense of safety.

"Affordability is certainly starting to play a bigger role in the purchasing. Scaling down, lower maintenance and other factors as mentioned herein seem to be at the forefront in many buyer’s decisions," he says. 

Distinctive family townhouse plus cottage in Bruma for R2.6 million 

This unique property offers not only a beautiful home but also "double security" for your complete peace of mind. Step inside this haven and experience enduring charm, and finesse. This home is perfect for a family seeking an exceptional lifestyle. This property also boasts a separate entrance to an income-producing one-bedroom cottage. Click here to view. 

David Jacobs, Regional Sales Manager for the Rawson Property Group, says more South Africans have been opting for townhouse/ sectional title property purchases over the last few years. It offers a hassle-free choice for modern living.

Secure, spotless, well loved townhouse in Craigavon for R1.65 million 

Spacious sunny and bright at 160 sqm under roof. No work to be done, just move in. Tiled Lounge and dining room lead out to covered patio with a lush wrap around private garden. Open plan granite kitchen, with separate scullery. Upstairs, a large main bedroom with laminate flooring leads out to sunny open patio with great views. Click here to view. 

"They are more affordable to buy than their freehold counterparts, and have the added bonus of predictability when it comes to ongoing maintenance, repair, and upgrade costs that come out of your monthly levies. Townhouse living is all about being part of a community and feeling safe with great security as they have better access control and tend to encourage neighbourly behaviour, which means more people are looking out for you and your home. 

"Townhouse properties attract a variety of buyers from young families, and young professionals to retirees looking for safety and convenience and the lock up and go lifestyle," he says. 

Modern townhouse in Fourways for R2.3 million

This modern home offers: entrance hall, guest cloakroom an open plan lounge, dining and kitchen with granite top, space for a fridge and 2 appliances. Enclosed patio with built-in braai overlooking the beautifully landscaped garden and pool with hard cover. Click here to view.

Meanwhile, Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says according to the Q2 2023 RE/MAX National Housing Report, a total of 21,037* freehold properties and 12,757* sectional title units were sold countrywide.

Charming townhouse in Parkwood for R1.85 million 

Spacious ground floor unit with some delightful features: the unit has a wraparound established garden, it is situated at the innermost extremity of the complex furthest away from the entrance, offering maximum privacy. Paved entrance leads to the front entrance into the open plan lounge dining room and kitchen. Click here to view. 

"Reviewed against previous RE/MAX National Housing Reports, the number of freehold properties registered dropped by 44% YoY and sectional titles dropped by 38% YoY. Average prices for sectional titles also grew by 7% YoY compared to just 3% growth for freehold properties.

Townhouse in an exclusive lifestyle estate in Segdefield for R3.7 million 

This beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bathroom villa with stunning views of Groeinvlei Lake is up for sale. Being surrounded by lush gardens and having direct access to the Groenvlei Lake, makes this one of the most sought-after security estates in the area. Click here to view. 

“Largely owing to their affordability, there seems to be a growing demand for sectional title homes, which include properties like townhouses, apartments, and semi-detached homes,” says Goslett.

*Figures according to Lightstone Property. Data captured on 04 July 2023. These figures exclude estates, farms, and land only transfers.

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