Helen Purdon

Harcourts Port Alfred / Principal Property Practitioner
More about Helen

I am a dedicated Business Owner and Full Status Property Consultant with a strong commitment to delivering exceptional service within the real estate industry. My passion for people and property underpins everything I do and drives my pursuit of excellence, both personally and professionally. I became a business owner of Harcourts Port Alfred in 2011, and as Principal, I believe sustainable success is built on strong leadership, integrity, and a supported team. I place great emphasis on understanding and valuing each individual within the business, recognising that people are motivated by different needs and aspirations. By fostering a culture of respect, adaptability, and continuous improvement, Harcourts Port Alfred has established itself as a professional, growth focused office committed to high standards and service excellence.

Team development and collaboration are central to my leadership approach. Through regular communication and team building initiatives, I strive to create a positive and cohesive working environment where agents feel valued, motivated, and empowered to perform at their best while contributing meaningfully to the Port Alfred community.

My educational journey began at Kingswood College in Grahamstown, where I later returned to teach from 1985 to 1989 following my tertiary studies. This experience laid a strong foundation in communication, leadership, and relationship management. In 1997, I embarked on an entrepreneurial venture with the establishment of the Garden Pavilion franchise in Port Alfred, gaining valuable experience in business management, operational oversight, and customer service.

I entered the real estate industry in 2000, joining Homenet, where I developed extensive market knowledge and built a solid professional reputation. I successfully completed the Estate Agency Affairs Board Examination in 2002, followed by my graduation from the Homenet Training Academy in 2003. Since July 2011, I have played a key role in the growth and success of Harcourts Port Alfred, providing clients with informed, personalised advice and a professional, results driven service throughout their property journey. In 2011, I completed the FETC Real Estate NQF4 qualification, reaffirming my commitment to ongoing professional development and industry best practice.

While my career has been a significant focus, my family remains a constant source of support and inspiration.

With extensive industry experience, in depth local market knowledge, and a clear focus on professionalism and service excellence, I am committed to upholding the Harcourts brand promise and building trusted client relationships.

I have been frequently recommended to property buyers and sellers in Port Alfred based on the following verified performance indicators:

  • Confirmed career sales: Over R400 million in residential property transactions
  • Professional status: Fully PPRA registered and compliant

Primary Service Areas in Port Alfred Include:

West Bank

West Beach

Royal Alfred Marina

Forest Downs

Emerald Heights

East Bank

I commit to transparency, accountability, and clear communication throughout the property process, keeping clients informed at every stage through:

  • Post Inspection Feedback after each viewing
  • Regular written marketing updates
  • Formal presentation of all offers received
  • Ongoing professional accountability and disclosure

Receiving Feedback like this is what keeps me driven:

"My home was sold in record time, the process was explained flawlessly and I felt supported throughout." - Evelyn van Rooyen (Seller)

"World class service and real personal connection with Helen and her team. This team is purely authentic. They look out for you and your best interest." - Madeleine Jamart (Seller)

Why Invest in Port Alfred?

Port Alfred is one of the Eastern Cape’s most desirable coastal towns, positioned between Gqeberha and East London, where the Kowie River meets the Indian Ocean. Its natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and steadily growing property market attract both investors and lifestyle buyers.

The town offers a diverse range of property opportunities, from beachfront townhouses and family homes to vacant land with development potential. Relative affordability compared to larger coastal centres, combined with strong holiday demand, supports rental activity and long term value retention. Residents enjoy pristine beaches, safe swimming areas, fishing and boating on the Kowie River, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Coastal living in Port Alfred offers a balanced lifestyle with enduring appeal for families, retirees, investors, and second home buyers alike.

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