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South Africa's property market is undergoing a fascinating shift. After years of people leaving major metros for a more relaxed pace in coastal towns or the countryside, there's a noticeable swing in the opposite direction.

Why Are People Moving Back to the Cities?

For a quick refresher; "semigration" describes the movement of people within a country rather than across borders for lifestyle choices. Reverse semigration is its counterpart - as the dust settles on post-pandemic life, we’re seeing a different trend unfold. Here's why it's gaining momentum:

• Career Opportunities and Economic Stability: While coastal towns offer a laid-back environment, they often lack the dense business networks and job prospects of Johannesburg or Pretoria. As South Africa navigates its economic landscape, many are seeking the stability and career growth major cities offer.
• Joburg's Back in Business: Renewed investor confidence in Gauteng, fueled by a stable government, shines a spotlight on Johannesburg's enduring role as Africa's financial hub.
• Essential Services and Infrastructure: Major cities like Joburg boast well-established healthcare, diverse education options, and robust retail infrastructure. These amenities are crucial for families, especially those with young children.
• Social Connection and Community: The allure of coastal living can fade when feelings of isolation arise. Cities offer a vibrant social scene and a sense of community that smaller towns sometimes lack.
• Affordability in Unexpected Places: The surge in coastal property prices due to semigration demand has made Johannesburg a more attractive option for some. Here, urban properties offer greater affordability compared to previously inflated coastal markets.

Billions Flowing into Joburg’s Property Market

The reverse semigration wave hasn’t gone unnoticed by property investors. Billions of rands are flowing into Johannesburg’s property market, with a focus on both residential and commercial properties. In one area alone, more than R2 billion has been allocated to redevelopment projects across Gauteng, signifying strong investor confidence in the region’s long-term growth.

This investment spans the spectrum, from high-rise apartment complexes to expansive mixed-use developments. Developers are also catering to former semigrants by incorporating lifestyle features and amenities that might entice them back from coastal escapes.

What’s Next for the Property Market?

As reverse semigration gains momentum, Johannesburg and other urban hubs are set to see further growth. For property investors, this is a signal to reassess where and how to invest. With a shift back toward cities, demand for well-located, amenity-rich developments will likely rise. Urban properties that offer lifestyle perks especially those targeting families and young professionals are likely to see steady appreciation.

Joburg currently offers attractive rental yields. Areas like Soweto have become vibrant urban centres attracting both locals and investors with its blend of culture, business potential and affordable housing. Properties here, including those listed on EasyProperties like Orlando Towers Estate, are drawing in tenants and investors alike, eager to tap into Joburg’s strong rental market.

Meanwhile, coastal and rural areas may need to innovate to retain residents and attract newcomers. Some towns are already working to improve infrastructure, create business incentives and diversify local economies to offset the potential slowdown.

Investment Highlight: Orlando Towers Estate in Gauteng

For those of you who are fascinated by the potential of reverse semigration, Orlando Towers Estate in Soweto is a prime example of Johannesburg's emerging property market. Located close to the University of Johannesburg, cultural landmarks, and recreational hotspots, Orlando Towers Estate is ideally positioned for both rental demand and long-term appreciation.

Orlando Towers Estate Investment Highlights:

• Internal Rate of Return (IRR): 9.8% - This IRR offers investors solid potential for appreciation.
• Net Rental Yield: 7.8% - Significantly higher than the national average, promising steady income.
• Phase 1 Success: Fully tenanted with zero rent defaults, a testament to the area’s growing appeal and stability.
• Phase 2 Growth: Already up by 7%, demonstrating quick value appreciation.

Investors on EasyProperties enjoy a 6% discount on the last Phase 1 units, making this an accessible yet profitable choice for fractional investment. With its secure environment, modern amenities, and consistent tenant demand, Orlando Towers Estates offers both potential capital appreciation and the long-term rental income ideal for those seeking steady returns.

Looking ahead:

For those considering an entry point into Joburg’s emerging property market, fractional ownership on EasyProperties offers a smart, affordable, and low-risk way to capitalize on the reverse semigration trend. With Joburg’s upward trajectory, now might be the perfect time to secure a stake in the city’s property boom while hedging investments with fractional, diversified ownership.

How to Access Property Reports

We understand that keeping track of your investments is important, and we make it easy for you to access detailed reports. To view quarterly reports for any property in your portfolio:

1. Log in to your EasyProperties account.
2. Select the specific property you're interested in.
3. Scroll down and download the report from the Property Documents section under the Description tab.

Sources: BusinessTech, Chas Everitt, Property Professional