Lifestyle - Property Review

No-deposit home loans a warning sign among younger buyers in SA

South Africa’s residential property market is undergoing a generational shift, with individuals under the age of 35 – particularly first-time homebuyers – playing an increasingly dominant role.

This rising demand from younger buyers is pushing up property prices in key metropolitan areas and reshaping home financing trends, according to Standard Bank’s newly released Youth Barometer report.

Drawing on data from over three million clients aged 18 to 35, the report offers a deep dive into the financial behaviours of young South Africans, with a focus on homeownership, debt appetite, and affordability challenges.

The data reveals a significant trend: around 40% of all new home loan enquiries at Standard Bank now come from clients under the age of 35. Between January 2023 and April 2025, 74% of home loan applications were from first-time buyers—rising to an average of 76% since mid-2025.

This surge is not only driving demand but also prompting a shift in how and where younger buyers are entering the market.

This segment is critical for the bank, said a Standard Bank representative. It’s far more effective to grow with a client than to win them over later in life.

The Youth Barometer also sheds light on the financial strategies younger buyers are using to secure property in a high-cost environment. T

he average loan approval for buyers under 35 is R1.2 million, with 70% of these loans granted at loan-to-value (LTV) ratios of 100% or more – indicating little or no deposit. In comparison, older buyers average R1.5 million in loan approvals, with only 45% approved at full LTV.

The trend toward higher LTVs among young buyers reflects both a challenge and a strategy: limited savings for deposits, but a willingness to commit long-term. Three-quarters of young applicants also opt for 20-year loan terms, using longer repayment periods to reduce monthly instalments.

Standard Bank has responded by offering first-time buyers loans of up to 108%, subject to risk assessment—helping cover not just the property price but also the upfront costs such as transfer duties and legal fees.

While young buyers are managing to access the market, they’re doing so with tighter budgets. This is evident in their higher Instalment-to-Income (ITI) ratios, with many spending over 30% of their income on monthly bond repayments. While that demonstrates commitment, it also leaves less room for error in a volatile interest rate environment.

The rise in no-deposit home loans is also a warning sign. It suggests many young South Africans are unable to accumulate savings, and are instead relying more heavily on credit to achieve independence through homeownership.

Many of these buyers are stretching their affordability based on the expectation of higher future earnings, the bank noted. It’s a calculated risk—but one that underscores the importance of financial education and responsible lending.

Apartments and entry-level houses are in particularly high demand, especially in city centres and suburban hubs near major employment nodes. This shift is putting upward pressure on prices in metros like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, where stock is already constrained.

Standard Bank views this younger demographic as a feeder market for future high-net-worth clients and is shaping its products and services accordingly. The bank says it’s focused on supporting this group not only with credit but also with financial literacy tools to help manage debt and prepare for future expenses.

The under-35 segment is now one of the most dynamic forces in South Africa’s residential property landscape. While affordability remains a challenge, the appetite for homeownership is strong – and growing.

For banks, developers, and policymakers alike, the message is clear: the next generation is ready to buy, and they’re reshaping the market in the process.

How to add R1.3 million to your retirement after age 45

The 2024 10X Investments Retirement Reality Report, showed that only 6% of South Africans would have accumulated enough money to retire comfortably.

Many fail to plan formally for retirement or simply don’t bother to monitor their retirement planning throughout their working lives – from the time that they start working and are well into their 20s, 30s and 40s, notes Andre Tuck of 10X Investments.

Many people don’t take this planning and monitoring seriously as their retirement seems so far off that they only live for the moment and never set crucial retirement goals.

“In our experience, if one wants to retire at 63, you’ll need to have accumulated savings of at least R7.5 million when you reach that age.

“However, that’s only the starting point – even if you manage to accumulate that amount, you still need to adhere to certain principles.”

The financial services firm recently conducted some basic arithmetic to highlight the potential impact of small changes in one’s retirement journey that can make a big difference come tools down for good.

These examples are for illustrative purposes only; performance is assumed to be constant, and we’re assuming 1% in total fees, which is possible.

Example 1:

You’re 45, and you’ve saved R500 000.
You contribute R7 500 per month to that amount for the next 20 years and get a 5.5% return above inflation.
You’ll end up with around R3.8 million in today’s money by age 65.

Example 2:

You’re 45, and you’ve saved R500 000.
You increase your contributions from R7 500 to R10 000 per month as you reach 50 years and older. When you reach 60, you increase your contributions to R12 500 per month.
Now, at the age of 65, you have approximately R5.1 million in today’s money in retirement savings.

By simply making those seemingly small changes in your contribution amount can potentially significantly increase your retirement savings, and therefore the income you can draw from those savings, it said.

10X looked at other small changes one might consider at key points in your life leading up to retirement.

Age 45: Building your foundation

In the examples above, it used some figures to illustrate how saving a little more each month as you get older, can contribute to your nest egg. However, what else could you do, and what do you need to know?

-You could review your investment fees, as a seemingly small difference of 0.5% in fees could mean 10% more retirement savings over 20 years.
-You could increase your retirement contributions to the maximum allowed 27.5% of income to take advantage of greater compound interest and the associated tax benefits.
-Understand that via the new two-pot retirement system, you’ll have some access to those funds, which might help put your mind at ease about increasing contributions.
-You could consider prioritising bond repayments, which could potentially save you hundreds of thousands of rands in interest in the years leading up to retirement and to give you peace of mind regarding reduced debt.
-You might get into the habit of reviewing the asset allocation in the funds in which your savings are invested. At 45, you can still consider significant equity exposure, as there is likely enough time to recover from any potential market volatility.

Age 55: Strategic refinement of retirement plans

By age 55, if you haven’t started increasing your contributions towards your retirement savings, you’ll shortly be running out of time to get the most from compound interest on those savings.

The longer you are in the market, and the greater your saved funds, the more the force of compound interest can work for you.

Apart from increasing your contributions, 10X said that now is a good time to consider developing supplementary or part-time income streams, especially for the first few years of retirement.

“How might you rent out a flatlet or space in your house? What kind of work could you do part-time, and for whom could you do it? Understanding your options, means you can start planning for those outcomes and building skills for post-retirement income possibilities.”

-You could stress-test retirement scenarios and calculate how your contributions and pre-retirement activities might affect your income.

Understanding how much capital is needed for the desired monthly income and knowing the sustainability of your savings at various income drawdown rates might empower you to change course.

Age 65: Retirement action plan

One of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is getting your pension product, or mix thereof, correct, said 10X. So, understanding the differences between a living annuity and a life (guaranteed) annuity is key.

What else should you think about?

-Look at the fees you pay on your retirement investments. It’s the biggest cost for some retirees.
-Understand how different asset allocations might affect your nest egg in the years following retirement. The last thing you need is to feel stressed about investment performance!
-You can look into creating a withdrawal strategy that maximises tax efficiency.
-You’ll probably want to think about optimising your expenses – does it really make sense to have two cars, for example?
-Could you downsize your house to potentially free up capital and reduce expenses such as house and garden maintenance?

This is the home that comes with a R530k monthly bond over 20 years

A high-end beachfront villa in Plettenberg Bay is up for sale, commanding the attention of ultra-wealthy buyers with a price tag of R52 million – a monthly bond of more than half a million rand (R528K).

The property, positioned on a 1,000-square-metre plot – 800 square metres under roof, sits directly on a secluded stretch of coastline, offering uninterrupted ocean views and direct beach access.

The residence includes five bedrooms—four of which are en-suite on the lower level – and 5.5 bathrooms. The entire upper level is reserved for a master suite featuring a private lounge, steam room, and rooftop terrace.

The home also includes an indoor glass-enclosed pool, a second outdoor pool, and a three-car garage.

Designed with influences from Balinese and Japanese architecture, the house features curved slate roofs, timber accents, and extensive use of imported marble and underfloor heating.

Pocket doors throughout provide fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Additional features include:

-Walk-in cold store and scullery
-Off-grid energy system powered by three Tesla Powerwall 2 batteries
-24/7 security, CCTV, and electric perimeter fencing

The villa is located less than 10 minutes from both Plettenberg Bay Central and the local airport. Viewings are available by appointment only.

This listing adds to a growing number of ultra-luxury homes for sale along the Western Cape’s coastline, a region that continues to attract foreign investors, executives, and high-net-worth South Africans seeking security and coastal seclusion.

Semigration buyers flock to these small towns in the Western Cape

The property market in several sought-after country towns including Swellendam, Bonnievale, Ladismith, Barrydale, Struisbaai, Riversdale, and Pearly Beach has seen a significant surge in transactions this year, according to Jaco Badenhorst, sales manager for Seeff Country and Karoo.

Agents have reported a sharp increase in sales driven by buyers looking to relocate due to healthy local economies and low crime rates. The limited stock for sale has made the market highly competitive.

Well-priced properties are attracting multiple offers and selling quickly, often within days of being listed.

Lightstone data shows that over 8,000 transactions worth almost R9.5 billion were concluded across the Cape countryside last year with about 90% of transactions below R1.5 million.

Freehold houses in the more popular towns averaged at between R1.8 million to R2.5 million.

Semigration, retirement, and remote working are big drivers of the demand. Growth in local industries such as the major R4.5 billion Overberg Wind Farm Project near Swellendam is another boost while more buyers are also turning their holiday homes into their permanent residence, he said.

Aside from the lifestyle aspects, Badenhorst said the attraction includes the ability to buy a lot more for your money in the country towns.

The towns mostly offer good infrastructure, access to schools, and proximity to bigger commercial centres. Properties are still overwhelmingly freehold houses, but the sectional title market is growing with new lifestyle and retirement estates coming into the market.

Towns such as Swellendam, Barrydale, and Riversdale have active agriculture, tourism, and small business sectors, which may appeal to new residents. An influx of workers and professionals has boosted demand for rental homes in and around Swellendam and Bredasdorp.

Badenhorst said many landlords are reporting full occupancy, and rental prices are beginning to reflect the increasing demand.

Val Anderton and Marinda Roux, agents with Seeff Swellendam say they have seen an increase in enquiries from Gauteng and Pretoria as young families look to relocate due to the excellent schools and wholesome environment to raise children.

While the average price is in the R2.4 million to R3.4 million range, they are seeing interest in higher priced properties. Rentals are also in high demand.

There’s also growing interest in estates such as the new Oewerlust Estate, selling from R2.417 million is for example also attracting investment buyers.

The Barrydale area is very active in the R2.5 million range with buyers coming from all over, especially the Cape, some downscaling or retiring, and others working remotely, says Beate Joubert, an agent with Seeff. Large homes suitable for conversion to guest houses are also in demand.

Another coastal hotspot, Gansbaai has also seen a significant surge in activity and prices over the past few years, according to Anet Rossouw from the Seeff.

The average property price has climbed to approximately R2.25 million – an increase of over R1 million in just four years.

This coastal gem is drawing strong interest from across South Africa, she adds. Nearly 60% of buyers are from Gauteng, with a further 10% from other provinces, and the remaining buyers primarily from the Western Cape in search of weekend getaway homes.

It’s now nearly impossible to find an average three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with a double garage for under R2.3 million. With rising demand and limited supply, time is of the essence for buyers.

Top Green Card recipients include wealthy South Africans investing in the US

South Africans entering the United States via the EB-5 Program totalled 125 for the fiscal year 2025 through 31 March, placing sixth among countries in this visa category.

Leading the list was China, which accounted for 54% of all EB-5 visas over the past year, followed by Vietnam, India, Taiwan, and South Korea.

The US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a fast track to permanent resident status (a green card).

Qualified investors and their families worldwide have secured legal permanent residency through this program.

Investment requirements:

$800,000 minimum investment (previously over $500,000), roughly between R9 million and nearly R15 million at entry level.

Key benefit:

Eligibility for US citizenship after five years of legal residence.

Over 500 wealthy South Africans have invested and relocated their families to the US through EB-5 over the last decade, excluding the Covid-affected year of 2021.

Applicants must invest in a new commercial enterprise affiliated with government-approved regional centers that promote economic growth. The program requires either:

$1,050,000 investment into a non-targeted employment area project, or
$800,000 investment into a targeted employment area (rural or high-unemployment zone).

Additionally, applicants must create or preserve 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified US workers and prove the legal source of their funds.

Following approval, the investment must remain for three to seven years depending on the project. Successful applicants receive conditional green cards valid for two years, which become permanent after demonstrating job creation or preservation. The transition from conditional to permanent green card does not restrict rights in the US.

In 2024, the US gained roughly 3,800 high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) through migration – including 95 centi-millionaires and 10 billionaires.

Many were founders, CEOs, and investors attracted to America’s innovation-driven economy and dynamic cities. Low-tax states like Florida and Texas are especially popular, while California continues to draw elite tech talent worldwide.

Henley & Partners data reveals a 183% rise in inquiries from US nationals seeking alternative residence and citizenship abroad between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025.

The firm also recorded a 39% increase in US investor inquiries in Q1 2025 compared to Q4 2024, indicating sustained growth beyond the initial election surge.

While wealthy Americans explore options abroad, the US remains a magnet for foreign investors through initiatives like the EB-5 Program.

Since 1990, EB-5 has generated over $55 billion in foreign direct investment, created approximately 1.4 million jobs, and contributed billions in tax revenue.

Henley & Partners reports a 325% increase in EB-5 inquiries between 2019 and 2024, with a further 57% rise in Q1 2025 versus Q1 2024, and an impressive 168% jump compared to Q4 2024. EB-5 is now the fourth most inquired-about residence program.

This momentum is boosted by former president Donald Trump’s proposed ‘Gold Card,’ promising a fast track to US citizenship for a $5 million investment or contribution. Still in development, this initiative signals strong recognition of investment migration’s benefits by a leading global nation.

Home to over six million HNWIs (with investable wealth of $1 million+), the US controls 34% of global liquid private wealth and hosts 37% of the world’s millionaires—more than Johannesburg’s entire population.

This wealth dominance extends across all tiers, with the US holding 36% of the world’s centi-millionaires ($100 million+) and 33% of its billionaires, according to the USA Wealth Report 2025, published by Henley & Partners with New World Wealth.

Despite remaining a top destination for global wealth migration, increasing numbers of affluent Americans are seeking residence and citizenship abroad.

So far in 2025, US citizens account for over 30% of investment migration applications via Henley & Partners—nearly double the combined total of the next five investor nationalities, including Turkey, India, and the UK.

Inside America’s wealthiest cities:

The USA Wealth Report 2025 highlights traditional wealth hubs alongside emerging urban centres. New York City remains the wealthiest in the US and world, with 384,500 millionaires, followed by San Francisco.

Los Angeles ranks third with 220,600 millionaires, growing 35% over the decade.

Chicago, Houston, and Dallas follow, all showing strong growth: Dallas by 85%, Houston by 75%. Seattle, Boston, Miami, and Austin are also gaining ground, with Miami and Austin growing 94% and 90% respectively.

Scottsdale stands out as the fastest-growing wealth hub, with a 125% increase in millionaires between 2014 and 2024, driven by its expanding tech sector. West Palm Beach trails with a 112% rise.

Andrew Amoils, head of research at New World Wealth, said: “America is the undisputed world leader when it comes to high-growth tech sectors such as software, microchips, online retail, internet hosting, social media, search engines and AI. As a result of this dominance, many tech entrepreneurs choose to move to the country in order to take their businesses to the next level.”

“Trade tensions and shifting economic priorities are driving HNWIs towards more business-friendly environments, with cities like Tampa, Salt Lake City, Denver and Santa Fe emerging as attractive alternatives thanks to their affordability, lifestyle appeal, and investment potential,” he said.

How much you need to earn to live in South Africa’s most sought-after estate

New property data from Pam Golding for the period January to April 2025 confirms that Paarl continues to lead the Cape Winelands as the top-performing residential hub.

Strong sales were recorded across all price bands, with a notable 27% of buyers aged under 35 — a sign that younger, affluent South Africans are entering the luxury property market.

Estate living remains in high demand. Over the past year, 99 new freehold homes were sold in the area, 55 of them within estates, at an average price of R4.15 million.

At the pinnacle of this market is Val de Vie Estate, situated just outside Paarl between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Widely regarded as South Africa’s premier lifestyle estate, Val de Vie has become a magnet for high-net-worth individuals seeking luxury, security, and an unmatched quality of life.

Spanning 917 hectares, Val de Vie offers secure, family-friendly living set against the backdrop of the Cape Winelands. Originally developed on historic farmland, the estate has expanded into a thriving, multi-generational community with world-class facilities:

-Outdoor living: 42 km of cycling trails, 21 km of walking paths, tennis and squash courts, and a 25m heated indoor pool
-Equestrian facilities: 64-stable equestrian centre with arenas and paddocks
-Wellness: Three wellness centres, offering yoga, Pilates, and indoor cycling
-Dining and lifestyle: Restaurants, a wine cellar, boutique retail, and a coffee roastery
-Security: 24/7 biometric access, armed patrols, and infrared perimeter fencing — often cited as Africa’s safest estate

Its proximity to top private schools, medical facilities, and Cape Town (less than an hour’s drive) further adds to its appeal.

Pam Golding reports that the median sale price at Val de Vie has climbed to R15.5 million, up from R12.8 million in 2023 — a 21% increase in under two years, reflecting both rising demand and the concentration of wealth flowing into the Winelands.

At this price point, monthly rates and levies typically total around R10,000 (R5,000 each).

Assuming a 15% deposit, you’d finance R13.175 million over 20 years at the current prime lending rate of 10.75%. That translates to an estimated monthly bond repayment of: R133,756 per month

Following the standard guideline that no more than 30% of your gross income should go toward home loan repayments, you would need to earn: R445,854 per month, or R5.5 million annually

Banks also evaluate net surplus income, factoring in all deductions and expenses, to ensure repayment affordability.

Here’s how much of your income experts recommend replacing when you retire

Some dream of retirement as a time for beach walks, travel, quality moments with loved ones, and finally pursuing long-neglected passions. Yet for many, stopping work altogether remains out of reach.

The difference, says Khwezi Jackson, client relationship manager at 10X Investments, often comes down not to income or privilege but decades of financial planning – or the lack thereof.

“There’s nothing more sobering than speaking to a 60-year-old whose retirement fund totals just R100,000,” Jackson says. “What do you say to someone facing the end of their working life with no safety net?”

While it’s easy to blame the investment industry’s high fees, overwhelming choices, or underperforming portfolios, Jackson stresses the responsibility ultimately lies with individuals. “We need to take a more active role in managing our retirement savings.”

This sentiment is underscored by the latest 10X Investments Retirement Reality Report, which found that only 6% of South Africans are on track to retire comfortably. The report highlights a significant retirement savings crisis, with the majority likely to face financial difficulties in their “golden years.” Even among those who do plan, confidence is low due to tough economic conditions.

The report explains that a typical earner saving 15% of their income from the start of their career, while preserving their savings when changing jobs, needs roughly 40 years to accumulate enough for a comfortable 30-year retirement — assuming a 5% return after costs.

Experts recommend aiming to replace 60-75% of your working income in retirement.

For example, if you earn R40,000 per month today, you should plan for an income between R24,000 and R30,000 per month in retirement, adjusting for inflation over time.

A good estimate is to multiply your monthly salary by 200. The total you get is the amount you’d need if you retired today at a 75% replacement ratio.

Key Steps to Secure Your Retirement

Re-evaluate your investment strategy

Jackson warns against assuming that simply belonging to an employer’s provident fund is enough. “You need to understand how your fund works, what you’re invested in, and whether it aligns with your goals,” he says.

He urges South Africans to regularly check their balances and ensure their investments match their life stage. “Confidence in your retirement plan comes from staying informed and making intentional decisions, not passively hoping.”

Avoid cashing in retirement savings

About 56% of workers cash in their retirement savings when switching jobs, a move Jackson cautions against. Early withdrawals mean losing decades of compound growth, which can severely impact retirement outcomes.

He advises evaluating pension policies carefully and considering fund transfers to consolidate savings while assessing fees and benefits.

Manage debt wisely

Carrying debt into retirement, especially mortgages or personal loans, can strain finances. Jackson recommends prioritising debt repayment while still employed, balancing this with saving for retirement.

“Small, consistent efforts to reduce debt and build savings can have a major impact on your financial health,” he notes.

Prime land on South Africa’s richest street just sold for R170 million

Two adjacent vacant erven comprising a total of 2 700sqm and situated in prime position in what is considered South Africa’s most prestigious and coveted address – Nettleton Road in Clifton – have been sold for R170 million.

According to long-term resident agent and area specialist, Annette Hepburn of Pam Golding Properties, while these erven have planning permission for nine apartments, the buyer, a multinational entity based in various countries, has indicated that it is intent on building one expansive trophy property.

“This is one of a few remaining vacant sites in this highly sought-after address, where properties rarely become available, and when they do, opulent, completed residences can be acquired for upwards of R150 million,” said Hepburn.

Nettleton Road is the most exclusive road in the country, with a limited number of residential properties, large luxurious, iconic homes which offer all the elements desired by high-net-worth individuals.

“Panoramic views from Nettleton Road sweep from the Twelve Apostle Mountain Range to all four Clifton Beaches. This premium location is home to captains of industry and some of the most luxurious designer homes in South Africa,” said Hepburn.

Clifton’s residential property median sales price of R34 million for 2025 to date is +29.5% above year-earlier levels and 136% above levels a decade ago.

Sales activity rebounded post-pandemic, remaining elevated ever since, with 18 sales already recorded this year to date (according to Lightstone data) – exceeding the whole of 2019 and close to the 2023 total of 27 sales. These figures include both sectional title and freehold homes.

Currently, Pam Golding Properties is marketing a five-bedroom (all en-suite) multi-storey, residence which was designed by award-winning architect, Stefan Antoni, and which is also situated in Nettleton Road, priced at R160 million, with no transfer duty payable.

With 180-degree views across Clifton and the ocean, this world-class architectural masterpiece has unique, over-sized, open-plan entertainment areas carefully integrated into the natural environment. With specifications of international standards, the villa is spread over five levels, each accessible by private glass elevator.

It includes a bespoke Italian Assirelli designer kitchen, level garden with outdoor lounge and dining areas, exceptional views from the spacious entertainment terrace complete with a 16-metre heated infinity pool, four reception rooms, home office, media room, gym, laundry, steam room, three additional guest cloakrooms, staff apartment with two bedrooms, kitchen and bathroom plus a security suite at the entrance – on ground level.

There is 24-hour security, four garages and four off-street parking bays.

Absa report links card spend growth to ongoing semigration trend

The Absa Merchant Spend Analytics Report for Q1 2025 highlights a noticeable slowdown in card spending growth, despite signs of broader economic recovery.

Card spending rose 7% and transaction volumes 10% year-on-year, down from 9% and 12% respectively in Q1 2024.

The report points to a more cautious consumer mindset, with the average value per transaction falling 3% year-on-year. South Africans are still spending, but are making more deliberate purchasing decisions.

Supporting this trend, NielsenIQ’s Mid-Year Consumer Outlook notes that 40% of shoppers now frequent discount or lower-priced stores.

“The Q1 data reveals that the consumer is not necessarily spending less, they’re making smarter purchasing decisions. This shift signals a clear directive for businesses which is to adapt to the value-based approach by offering competitive pricing, flexible purchase options, and meaningful loyalty strategies to stay relevant and resilient in a price-conscious market,” said Isana Cordier, head: Consumer Sector, Absa CIB.

Notably, the strongest growth came from outside the traditional top 10 spend categories.

Warehousing and storage led category growth in Q1, up as much as 92%, ‘likely linked to the ongoing trends of immigration and semigration across the country’.

Education, at 30%, followed, aligning with the back-to-school season, while online gambling remained in the top five, driven by digital platforms. In contrast, print media showed flat growth and physical books and newspapers continued to decline, signaling an ongoing shift toward digital content.

Within core categories, growth was modest. Small increases in home and garden, as well as health and beauty, indicate continued consumer investment in comfort and wellness, even under financial strain.

Online shopping continues to outpace traditional retail. Online card spend rose from 7% of total spend in Q1 2022 to 10% in Q1 2025, reflecting greater trust and digital adoption – especially among Gen Z consumers.

While in-store transactions still dominate, they are gradually declining, said Absa.

Online spending surged in sectors previously dominated by cash. Commercial and industrial services led with a 155% year-on-year increase. Funeral services and education also showed strong online growth, though from smaller bases.

Card Spending

Everyday essentials continue to anchor online spend, the report found. Categories like home and garden (23%) and food (20%) remain the largest contributors to e-commerce volumes, underscoring their role in frequent, practical purchases.

Consumer reliance on credit is growing, said Absa. Credit card usage rose 9% in Q1, down slightly from 12% in Q1 2024, while debit card growth slowed to 5%, from 8% a year earlier.

This trend may reflect greater dependence on credit to manage rising costs and tight budgets, the lender said.

“As consumer priorities shift, businesses must adapt to changing behaviours, focusing on value, digital enablement and the evolving needs of the modern shopper,” Cordier said.

Container home for sale in South Africa with mountain views – R950,000

A one-bedroom container home, set against the picturesque mountain backdrop of Tulbagh, is on the market for R950,000 – offering South Africans a fresh opportunity to embrace minimalist luxury in one of the Western Cape’s most scenic small towns.

Positioned on a generous 519 m² plot, this thoughtfully designed home blends industrial innovation with comfort. Modern finishes include fitted blinds, a fireplace for chilly winter evenings, and air conditioning for the hot Boland summers.

Outdoors, residents can relax in a low-maintenance garden nourished by an automated irrigation system, while a borehole – with servitudes already in place – ensures a steady, sustainable water supply.

This container home offers a lifestyle shift for those seeking simplicity, sustainability, and serene natural surroundings. Whether you’re a remote worker escaping the urban grind, a first-time homeowner, or a retiree in search of peace, this property is a gateway to a slower, more intentional way of life.

Once considered niche or temporary, container homes are now redefining affordable housing across South Africa. The trend is fuelled by rising property prices, environmental concerns, and a growing appetite for innovative architecture.

Tulbagh, with its blend of rural charm and accessibility, is quickly becoming a hotspot for alternative housing models like this one.

According to industry experts, building a basic one-bedroom container home can cost anywhere from R150,000 to R400,000, depending on the level of finish, insulation, and infrastructure.

More upscale versions — like the one listed in Tulbagh — come with added amenities and land, driving the price higher but still well below traditional brick-and-mortar homes.

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