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Helen Purdon, Business Owner, Experienced Property Practitioner & Port Alfred Market Specialist
I am a dedicated, multi award-winning Full Status Property Consultant and Business Owner with decades of experience in the property industry and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional service. 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 Property Consultant, I believe sustainable success is built on strong leadership, integrity, and a supported team. I place great emphasis on understanding and valuing each individual, 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 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 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.
At the Harcourts Regional Awards held in Port Alfred on 4th March 2026, I was recognised for two major achievements: 2nd highest commission generated in the last two quarters, and 3rd in the Eastern Cape for number of units sold, reflecting both consistent performance and dedication to delivering results for my clients.
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:
I specialise in Luxury Real Estate, Beachfront Properties, Holiday Homes, Family Homes, Sectional Title Properties, and Vacant Land sales.
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:
Receiving feedback like this is what keeps me driven:
"My wife Patti and I heartily recommend Helen Purdon of Harcourts. We found Helen to be very professional, extremely patient and always considerate of our needs as a client. Helen took time out right at the outset to listen to each of our needs and to understand what each of us were hoping to find in a new home in Port Alfred. As she guided us through the viewing process, she listened intently to our comments after each viewing and remained in touch and attentive to our search, which was spread over successive week-ends for over 3 months. We found her to be ethical, competent and unflappable. Once the deal was done, Helen stayed in touch and was always patient in recommending local contractors and explaining the local customs. She even took responsibilty for overseeing some furniture deliveries while we were away. We count her as one of our friends in our new home town." - Gareth Lishman (Buyer, Forest Downs)
"My home was sold in record time, the process was explained flawlessly and I felt supported throughout." – Evelyn van Rooyen (Seller, Forest Downs)
"Helen is a veteran in the business. She gives a personal touch to her client and has a good eye for property and its potential. I always find her knowledge of the real estate industry phenomenal." - Pam Yako (Buyer and Seller, West Beach)
"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, West Beach)
"Helen is very friendly, has delivered great service always above and beyond what was required from her as an agent. For our family being from out-of-town and settling into a new unit for holiday purposes was very easy with her help and support. She helped to sort out any teething issues and resolved everything speedily and with great style. She has become a good friend and we will not use any other agency for any property related transaction in the Port Alfred and surrounding areas. Currently she is facilitating the renting of our unit and we are delighted with the professionalism and support we get from her and her business partners." - Felix Bosch (Seller, Emerald Heights)
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.
