Prospects for the South Africa real estate market

Many real estate investors seem to have discounted the potential for growth in real estate in South Africa as a consequence of perceived political instability. While there is no doubt there have been significant political issues in the past, a quick look at the real estate market in South Africa will assure you that the situation is nowhere near as bad as some would have you believe. Indeed, there are some who believe that the South Africa property market will be a global leader in 2014.

There are a number of factors to take into consideration such as: –

Recent budget which should stimulate the wider economy

Fitch report casting a positive light on the South African real estate market

Expectations of 6% growth for the "next few years"

While growth of 6% in 2014 is pretty much in line with inflation, it is down on the 7.9% growth seen in 2013. However, if, as many expect, the economy improves, the political situation remains stable and investors begin to look towards Africa, perhaps we are missing an opportunity?