There is a shift in the purpose of property, as homes are no longer just a living place only.
Properties today serve multiple purposes; they are now spaces to work, create, entertain, and relax, said John Herbst, CEO of Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)
“For real estate professionals, this means shifting the conversation from square metres to possibility. The work-from-anywhere revolution is not only changing where we live – it’s redefining why we live there in the first place,” Herbst said.
The network of independent estate agents said the future of work is hybrid, flexible, and mobile, and the homes people live in need to reflect that.
“We are seeing a clear shift in what buyers and renters are looking for, from built-in workspaces and tech to locations that offer not just beauty and tranquillity, but the infrastructure and services to support productive remote work.”
It said that while location and square meterage still dominate most property priorities for individuals, there has been a shift to now focus on quality of life too, and if not as equally as the former.
It added that today’s remote professionals are seeking out properties that offer integrated home offices or multi-use rooms that can double up as workspaces, smart home tech, from automated security to solar backup systems and lifestyle-driven locations like small mountain towns, coastal villages, or winelands retreats that allow work-life harmony
Herbst said this transformation has redefined what ‘prime property’ means.
“It’s no longer only about being close to the office - it’s about being close to inspiration, to wellness, and to the things that fuel our lives outside of work. Buyers want a place where they can take a Zoom call at 10am and be out trail running or wine tasting by 4pm.”
Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Africa added that secondary cities and previously overlooked areas are experiencing a surge in interest, with professionals trading congested city centres for more spacious, affordable and often more beautiful locations.
It said areas like Ballito, George, the Cape Winelands, the Midlands and even towns like Clarens are now on the radar of remote workers seeking a slower pace without compromising connectivity.
This "rural revival" is also said to be influencing developers and investors, who are being urged to consider infrastructure upgrades like fibre-optic internet and co-working amenities when planning new residential estates.
The network said short-term, fully furnished rentals that cater to slightly longer stays are seeing increased demand, particularly in locations popular with international remote workers.
It said property owners and landlords who can cater to this market with turnkey solutions, think well-furnished spaces, flexible lease terms, and concierge-style amenities are well-positioned to thrive.
Recently, property professionals who have spent years observing what makes a neighbourhood thrive said that when buying a home or investing in property, understanding the key factors that define a desirable location is crucial.
They said that often, it was a mix of everyday convenience and long-term investment potential. The fundamental elements that shape desirability include access to top-rated schools, proximity to essential amenities and well-maintained public spaces.
Lynda van de Venter of Just Property Heritage said that the more conveniences an area has, the more desirable it will be.
“However, top-rated schools and security are probably the most influential factors in the decision to buy into an area."
The significance of dynamic local enterprises and robust transport systems is emphasised by Joe Alves of Just Property Blouberg.
"Thriving businesses reflect a robust local economy, and access to clean, safe parks increases desirability, particularly in urban areas."
In Pietermaritzburg, Just Property's Adele Oosthuizen notes that areas attracting young families tend to maintain stronger property values over time.
"Demographics play a major role in real estate trends. When a neighbourhood draws in young families, it ensures long-term demand and community stability."
Oosthuizen has seen firsthand how areas near prestigious schools like Maritzburg College and St. Charles remain in high demand, while shopping hubs such as Midlands Mall add to a location's appeal.
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