What is immovable property?

In real estate, one principle remains timeless: a great location will always outperform great finishes. Renovations can transform a home’s comfort and appeal, but they can’t shift a property closer to top schools, thriving business hubs, popular lifestyle estates, or the ocean. And in South Africa’s complex market, where service delivery, safety, and lifestyle demand vary sharply from street to street, location has become the biggest driver of long-term value.

With the rising cost of living and tighter bank lending conditions, many homeowners are looking for ways to cut costs when selling, including the idea of avoiding estate agent commission by selling privately. While this may seem like a way to keep more money in your pocket, the risks in today’s market are far higher than most people realise. A private sale can quickly become expensive, stressful, and legally risky if you’re not fully prepared.

When the time comes to settle into your golden years, choosing the right retirement property matters just as much as the decades of living before it. Whether you’re helping ageing parents, planning ahead for yourself, or looking for an investment option with lifestyle benefits, retirement-living choices in South Africa offer both promise and pitfalls.