Spend any time showing homes, and you’ll notice a clear pattern: buyers want peace of mind as much as they want a place to live. It’s no surprise that this is backed up by Prop Data’s latest poll. According to property practitioner sentiment, 14.1% say that demand for secure complexes and estates will be a top trend for 2026, the second-highest voted overall after stronger buyer’s market conditions.
The appetite for secure complexes and estates shows no sign of slowing and has been a constant over the past few years. “It reflects the evolution of residential living in South Africa,” says Herschel Jawitz, CEO of Jawitz Properties.
“Buyers are looking for security, lower running costs, lock-up-and-go living, and higher densification compared to traditional stand-alone house suburbs.”
Safety has become non-negotiable for many buyers. “Security is no longer a ‘nice to have’— it’s a must,” adds Renata Milanesi, Principal and Director of R and R Real Estate. “People want to feel safe in their homes and comfortable leaving for work or travel without worry. Estates also offer a sense of community, good management, and shared spaces, which many buyers love. It’s about peace of mind and lifestyle, not just bricks and mortar.”
The trend spans different buyer types and locations. “These developments offer predictability and peace of mind in uncertain times, appealing to families, downsizers, and investors alike,” explains Kyle Leigh, Founder and Managing Director of The Agency Property Group.
“They also provide safety, reliable infrastructure, and lifestyle convenience perks that make it attractive for various demographics.”
Work patterns are also influencing buying decisions. “Although remote work will continue, there’s a noteworthy trend for people to return to the office,” notes Chris Tyson, Founder and CEO of Tyson Properties. “This has implications for residential choices, with convenience and safety driving people to move closer to commercial centres. Research, including the FNB Property Barometer, even shows rising sales of sectional title units with equity values now exceeding freestanding homes.”
Crime and lifestyle considerations further reinforce the appeal of secure complexes. “Unfortunately, crime levels incentivise people to buy in secure complexes and estates, where security is entrenched and more comprehensive than could be practically achieved in a stand-alone property,” says Trish Kennedy, Principal and Owner of Zest Property Group.
“‘Lock up and go’ is a big factor too, as many buyers enjoy the freedom to travel and take advantage of what this country has to offer on weekends and holidays.”
As buyer preferences move away from specific home features and prioritise security and lifestyle, practitioners need to ensure their stock can match their needs.
Focus on the right listings: “Traditionally, property practitioners relied on the ‘list, list, list’ approach, but complexes and estates are harder to break into,” points out Jawitz. “You need to concentrate your prospecting efforts on the right type of property to create sales.”
Know the estate inside out: “Buyers want clarity on levies, rules, security, facilities, and management,” highlights Milanesi. “When you can answer those questions confidently, you build trust. You’re not just selling a home — you’re selling a way of living.”
Sell the lifestyle, not just the unit: “Secure estates appeal for safety, convenience, community, and shared amenities,” notes Leigh. “Explaining how the estate supports day-to-day life, along with levies, governance, and long-term management, positions you as a trusted advisor rather than just a sales intermediary.”
Explain financial advantages clearly: “Buying off-plan in new complexes can save buyers on transfer duties,” shares Tyson. “Make sure you communicate these benefits, especially to newcomers to the market.”
Secure mandates with purpose: “Acquiring mandates for estates requires a fresh approach,” says Kennedy. “Review marketing policies, database management, communication, and online presence to answer the question: ‘What can we offer in return for a mandate?’ This will help you secure both mandates and sole mandates.”