Since stepping into the world of real estate in 2007, Retha van Zyl has built more than just a successful career; she’s cultivated a community. With her warm presence and unwavering integrity, Retha has become a cornerstone of Woodland Hills Wildlife Estate in Bloemfontein, helping hundreds of families buy and sell in one of the Free State’s most iconic lifestyle estates.
But real estate wasn’t always part of the plan.
A calling that found her
Originally trained in Psychology, Retha envisioned a career in remedial education. After 15 years in government service, however, she reached a professional crossroads. At the suggestion of her husband, Wikus, she considered real estate, and from the very first door she knocked on, she knew: this was it.
Her first transaction, the sale of an undeveloped erf in Woodland Hills, holds a special place in her heart. The excitement of introducing buyers to a vision of secure estate living where wildlife roamed freely was electrifying. The R11,000 commission from that Sunday afternoon sale was a triumph, celebrated with two candle holders that still grace her home today.
Woodland Hills: not just a market, a mission
Retha’s real estate journey is deeply intertwined with Woodland Hills Wildlife Estate, where she not only sells homes but also lives, serves, and cares. As a founding member of the Woodland Hills Community Church, former board member, and hands-on community participant, Retha has seen nearly every home in the estate take shape and has built strong, personal connections with many of its residents.
“I’ve cared for pets, managed contractors, celebrated milestones, and mourned losses with my clients. It’s more than property. It’s people,” she says.
What buyers want and what Retha knows
The Bloemfontein market has evolved, with Woodland Hills consistently attracting buyers seeking a secure, nature-rich lifestyle. Properties designed with family and entertaining in mind are in high demand, particularly those in mint condition and well-priced.
Security is always a top concern; new homeowners often ask about fencing their property. “Most end up loving the openness and never fence the front yard,” Retha adds with a smile.
To stay informed, Retha closely monitors activity within the estate, keeps up with economic and property news, and regularly attends online seminars hosted by the Financial Intelligence Centre and other industry leaders.
Supporting first-time buyers with heart and wisdom
First-time buyers are some of Retha’s favourite clients. She walks them through every step of the buying process, especially the unique aspects of living in a managed estate. From explaining monthly levies to encouraging buyers to involve trusted friends in viewings, Retha ensures her clients make informed, confident decisions, and she continues supporting them long after the deal is done.
“I try to protect them from buyer’s remorse,” she says. “This is one of the biggest decisions they’ll ever make, and they deserve to feel secure and excited about it.”
Tech with a human touch
While Retha embraces practical tech tools in her solo agency, she’s wary of how technology has eroded the personal connection in real estate. “I miss the days when people came to me directly; now they click a link,” she says. She’s also critical of AI-generated property ads, having experienced firsthand how her carefully written listing was copied by AI tools used by another agent.
“I believe there’s a place for tech, but some things should be left to the human brain,” she says. Her dream tool? A system that can capture client contact details directly from her phone, and save her from filing it manually is the one repetitive task she’d love to automate.
Career highlights rooted in service
Rather than chasing accolades, Retha defines success by the trust and gratitude of her clients. “When someone thanks me for my honesty, professionalism, and integrity - that’s my proudest moment,” she says.
Her most memorable sale? The very first! It became the foundation for a growing family’s dream. “To me, it’s never about the deal; it’s about the people who bring life to a home.”
Staying true, staying grounded
Retha’s advice to new agents is simple: “Know who you are and stay true to yourself.” She’s not in it for the glamour or the quick win. Real estate is personal, emotional, and often deeply complex, and her role is to guide, support, and protect.
As for public misconceptions? “People think we earn a lot while doing very little,” she laughs. “If only they saw the hours, the admin, and the emotional support. It’s a lot more than just ‘selling a house.’”
Life beyond the listings
Retha’s goals for the year ahead go beyond business: she seeks balance, peace, and authenticity. Whether she’s camping off-grid with Wikus, Fiela the cat, and Jack and Jill (the trusty Ford Ranger and trailer), or simply enjoying quiet time in her garden, her heart is centred on gratitude and simplicity.
She also runs a private wellness practice, Flourish with Retha van Zyl, where she counsels individuals facing life’s everyday challenges—a natural extension of her empathy-filled approach to property.
Always showing up (with a coffee in hand)
Though she doesn’t often host traditional show days, Woodland Hills’ access control makes them rare and highly targeted. When she does, Retha’s choice is simple: a strong flat white, no sugar, freshly brewed.
Whether she’s hiking the estate’s stunning trails, praying for daily strength, or reminding herself that “it’s just not my turn today,” Retha shows up with presence, purpose, and professionalism.
Retha van Zyl Real Estate is more than a brand; it’s a personal mission to serve, guide, and walk alongside every client in one of life’s most meaningful journeys. To connect with her and browse her listings, visit her MyProperty Profile Page for more information.
