Why Pretoria and Sandton are the hottest property markets in South Africa
Cornwall Hill Estate is one of the most exclusive estates in Pretoria where prices upwards of R5 million to R16.5 million has been paid.
Image: Seeff
Pretoria, home to many politicians, and Sandton are increasingly sought-after destinations for home buyers chasing lifestyle, security and convenience.
Pretoria’s estates have become the city’s property hotspots, with some seeing capital value growth of up to 30% over the past five years.
Buyers are prepared to pay a premium for estate living, said Gerhard van der Linde, MD for Seeff Pretoria East.
This is driven by a desire for enhanced security, top-tier services and a more convenient lifestyle, Seeff said.
Lightstone data shows more than 3,500 estate properties have changed hands in Tshwane this year, making up about 20.5% of all metro sales and nearly a third of the total value.
Freehold homes in estates sell for between R2.5 million and R6.5 million, while sectional titles fetch between R1.8 million and R3.8 million.
The luxury segment, priced from R5 million upwards, accounts for 7.8% of all sales this year.
The highest prices over the past year include The Hills and Lombardy Estate at up to R14 million, Silver Lakes at R16 million, Woodhill at R17 million and Mooikloof topping the list at R17.4 million.
Pretoria Estates with some of the best five-year price growth for freehold houses.
Image: Seeff | Lightstone
Seeff said Pretoria East is home to about 15 major estates that appeal to families, executives, politicians and diplomats.
Golfing, wildlife and equestrian lifestyles, along with access to good schools, continue to draw buyers, the real estate company said.
Seeff said buyers can expect to pay around R10.8 million for a large, seven-bedroomed home on over 5 200sqm of land.
It offers a quintessential country lifestyle on the doorstep of the metro, with bespoke finishes, multiple living areas with fireplaces, a study, hobby room and library, large studio, gym with a sauna and steam room overlooking the valley, guest suite, staff accommodation and more.
Seeff Sandton’s MD, Charles Vining, highlights that Sandton and Johannesburg North are home to some of the most sought-after real estate in the country, along with top schools that keep buyers coming.
Lightstone data shows that 78% of buyers in Sandton and Joburg North last year were under 50, and half of those under 35.
Morningside, Bryanston, Lonehill and Parkhurst were the top-selling suburbs for 2024, with Fourways and Parkhurst among the fastest-moving.
Vining says there’s renewed energy in the market as house prices start to rebound. Sandton recorded more than 7 000 property transactions last year, with Bryanston adding nearly 1 000 more.
The average home in Sandton sells for around R2.5 million, while freestanding houses average R3.5 million.
Most sales are in the R3 million to R8 million bracket, and 8% top R5 million.
Recent high-value sales include R75 million in Sandhurst, R40.25 million in Bryanston, R27 million in Inanda, R25.5 million in Morningside and R21 million in Dainfern.
Among the most sought-after suburbs for buyers wanting proximity to good schools are:
Bryanston – One of the busiest and priciest markets, with homes selling for R20 million to R40 million in recent years. Freehold homes range from R3 million to R8 million, while sectional titles sit between R1.2 million and R2.2 million.
Fourways – Favoured by families for its secure, country-style lifestyle and schools such as Fourways High and Dainfern College. Freehold homes average between R2.5 million and R5.5 million, while estates like Dainfern, Fourways Gardens and Cedar Lakes reach from R5 million to as high as R65 million.
The Parks – Parkhurst, Parkview and Parktown North offer character homes close to top schools and universities, with tree-lined streets and a village feel. Prices range from R2.8 million to R5 million.
Morningside – Close to the Sandton CBD and top schools such as Redhill and Crawford, freestanding homes range from R4.2 million to R12 million.
Lonehill – Known for its strong community and security focus, with clusters and sectional titles averaging between R2.5 million and R6 million.
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