Over the past few years, semigration – the trend of South Africans relocating from one province to another for lifestyle, work, or financial reasons – has reshaped the country’s property market.
When remote work became the norm during and after COVID-19, many professionals and families left inland cities for coastal destinations like the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. Now, however, the tide is shifting.
With more companies requiring employees to return to the office – especially in Johannesburg and Pretoria – some of those who relocated are making their way back.
Despite the uptick in reverse semigration, demand for property in the Western Cape remains exceptionally strong, according to Roger Lotz, franchisee at the Rawson Properties Helderberg Group.
“Cape Town continues to be one of South Africa’s most desirable places to live,” said Lotz. “While most people are heading back to Gauteng, we’re still seeing strong interest from buyers as well as international investors. Cape property is highly sought after, and that’s not changing anytime soon.”
A recent survey by CareerJunction found that nearly 60% of South African employers are now requiring employees to return to the office.
Since many large corporations are headquartered in Johannesburg, professionals who moved to coastal areas during the work-from-home boom are now needing to return.
“Many reverse semigrators are choosing to hold onto their Western Cape properties as rental investments rather than selling, boosting the rental market” says Lotz. “That speaks volumes about their confidence in the long-term value of Cape property,” he said.
Cape Town’s property market remains resilient
Cape Town remains a lifestyle destination – The quality of life, scenic beauty, and safety continue to attract homebuyers, said Rawson Properties. Demand continues to exceed supply, meaning well-priced properties sell quickly.
Many property owners are opting to rent out their Cape properties instead of selling, highlighting strong investor confidence, it said.
And while some are relocating back inland, others – especially retirees, entrepreneurs, and full time remote workers – are still semigrating to the Cape.
While Cape Town’s market is thriving, Johannesburg and Pretoria are seeing an uptick in demand from professionals moving back for work. Some buyers are taking advantage of Gauteng’s more affordable property market, particularly in areas close to key business hubs like Sandton, Rosebank, and Midrand. Lotz acknowledged this shift and remains confident in the resilience of Cape Town’s market.
For buyers, the continued demand for Cape properties makes it a solid long-term investment. Prices remain stable or are increasing in sought-after areas, and well-located properties are in high demand.
For sellers, the market remains active, and strong buyer interest means well-priced properties are selling quickly. For those considering whether to sell or rent out their property, keeping it as an investment is proving to be a smart option.
“Even as some people move back for work, Cape Town remains the dream destination. The property market here is still thriving, and investor confidence is as strong as ever. That’s not about to change any time soon.”
After more than a decade of sluggish growth, Johannesburg’s residential property market is showing promising signs of recovery, signalling the possible bottom of the cycle. According to Landsdowne Property Group, this renewed activity presents a golden opportunity for investors and first-time buyers alike.
With property prices at multi-year lows and rental demand holding strong, South Africa’s economic powerhouse is becoming an attractive destination for savvy buyers looking to capitalise on value-driven opportunities.
Property prices in Johannesburg have stagnated for over a decade, weighed down by concerns over infrastructure, safety, and semigration trends. However, the same factors that suppressed growth have now created a market ripe for buyers seeking long-term value.
“We believe Johannesburg has officially reached the bottom of the cycle,” said Jonathan Kohler, Founder and CEO of Landsdowne Property Group.
“This means buyers and investors can secure properties at 2007 price levels—a rare opportunity for those seeking strong rental income or long-term capital appreciation.”
While lifestyle estates remain popular due to their security appeal, freehold homes in well-located suburbs are emerging as attractive alternatives, offering exceptional value in a buyer-friendly market.