By: Gerard Abrahamse - General Manager at ASI Property

South Africa’s property market is changing in 2026, and first-time buyers are leading this change. Instead of waiting for the perfect time, they are buying homes now. These buyers are focusing on what they can really afford, recognising that interest rates are steady, and using new tools and options to secure home loans. Their practical approach is helping them succeed and setting the stage for understanding the broader trends shaping the market.

By the end of 2025, first-time buyers accounted for approximately 46% to 48% of all home loan applications, cementing their position as a critical market force. Even though interest rates and the cost of living remained high, the volume of sales held steady as buyers adapted. Home prices rose slowly, averaging around R1.67 million nationally which reflects a market that is stable and predictable rather than speculative.

Stability over speculation

A big factor contributing to this stability is the steady interest rates. Although rates are still higher than they were in the decade prior, they are no longer changing rapidly. This means monthly payments are predictable, so people feel more comfortable planning their finances. For most buyers, having certainty about what they will pay each month is more important than hoping for a sudden drop in interest rates.

Banks have also made it easier for buyers to enter the property market. In 2025, average deposits for first-time buyers became more manageable, often averaging around R120,000, which lowered the barrier for many. Because of these changes, more people had their home loan applications approved, especially after the prime lending rate fell to 10.5% in August 2025. This combination of better approval rates and stabilized costs has encouraged more people to commit to buying.

Digital transformation: The rise of tech-savvy buyers

Alongside these financial changes, technology is transforming the way people buy homes in 2026. First-time buyers now use websites to look for homes and apply for home loans online through platforms like the ooba Home Loan Calculator. These digital tools save time and bring greater confidence to buyers, especially younger people navigating the process for the first time.

However, home prices and demand are not the same across South Africa. Each region has its own trends:

• Cape Town (Western Cape): The average home costs about R2.1 million. Demand remains exceptionally strong due to "semigration" and the city's coastal lifestyle.
• Johannesburg (Gauteng): The average home price sits closer to R1.6 million. While suburbs remain resilient, buyers are finding more value here compared to the Western Cape.
• Durban (KwaZulu-Natal): The average home price is about R1.3 million to R1.5 million. Demand is rising as more people look for coastal living at a lower price point than Cape Town.
• Smaller Cities: In places like Buffalo City and Polokwane, homes remain more affordable (averaging under R1 million), attracting first-time buyers who are priced out of the major metros.

Lifestyle, community, and sustainability priorities

Beyond price and location, today’s buyers are paying more attention to lifestyle and environmental factors. Many want to live in friendly neighbourhoods with a sense of community, reliable internet for hybrid work, and access to green spaces. There is also a growing interest in "green" homes that save energy features that help save money on utilities while benefiting the planet.

Building trust and strong relationships is also becoming increasingly important in the property management landscape, as buyers and owners seek greater confidence and transparency. Specialist property management companies that focus on sectional title, body corporate, and homeowners’ association (HOA) management play a key role in supporting this shift. 

By working closely with clients and partners and fostering human-centered connections, these organisations help create a culture of credibility and trust. For instance, ASI Property manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 body corporates and HOAs throughout South Africa. Their approach shows how being large enough to make a meaningful impact, yet small enough to maintain personal relationships, is valued by both new and experienced homeowners. This evolving, people-first mindset is shaping not only how properties are managed, but also how communities grow and thrive in the changing South African property market.

This thoughtful approach extends to the "hidden" costs of ownership. Buyers in 2026 are not only looking at their monthly bond payment; they are carefully budgeting for levies, city taxes, insurance, and maintenance funds. Thinking about the full cost of home ownership helps people avoid surprises and plan for the long term.

Checklist for prospective buyers:

• Know your numbers: Use the Bond Indicator tool to check your credit score and pre-qualification amount.
• Save for upfront costs: Budget for transfer duties, legal fees, and moving expenses in addition to your deposit.
• Understand levies: If buying in a sectional title, confirm monthly fees for security and maintenance before committing.
• Factor in rates and taxes: These vary significantly by municipality; check these costs ahead of time.
• Plan for maintenance: Set aside a "rainy day" fund for repairs to keep your property in good condition.

The biggest change from 2025 to 2026 is the shift from "regaining confidence" to "making smart decisions." In 2026, the successful buyers are those who plan carefully and focus on long-term value. Success comes from being prepared and understanding your full financial picture. Buying a home is no longer about taking big risks; it’s about making thoughtful choices that build a secure future.