Rode Media

Strong demand for rental properties in Durbanville and surrounds

The rental market in Bellville, Durbanville and Parow is experiencing strong growth. Some of the reasons for this include an influx of residents from other provinces to the Western Cape, and the area’s proximity to business hubs like Tyger Valley and Century City. Demand is outpacing supply, so the market has become more competitive, with resulting increased rentals and a shortage of rental stock.

READ MORE »

Riverstone Mall nears opening

Alley Roads Group has confirmed that the construction of its Riverstone Mall has been completed, with occupational handover to tenants being finalised before the mall’s opening at the end of the month.

READ MORE »
Opinion

Infrastructure spendng boost despite VAT woes

Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group commented on the budget speech presented on 12th March, “It was positive to note that the critical need for infrastructural improvements has been highlighted in today’s National Budget, as investment in sound infrastructure with a focus on energy, clean water supply and adequate sanitation, well-maintained roads and other transport facilities, as well as affordable and effective broadband connectivity, promotes economic growth, and fosters employment opportunities. 

READ MORE »
Opinion

How updated Public-Private Partnership rules and fiscal policy could transform South Africa’s commercial property sector

South Africa’s National Treasury has simplified the approval process for public-private partnerships (PPPs) under R2 billion to boost infrastructure projects and attract private investment. This move, effective June, eliminates the need for Treasury approval of smaller projects, expediting developments like mixed-use facilities and renewable energy sites. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s reform aligns with the World Bank’s recommendations to reduce red tape and stimulate economic growth. Despite concerns over a potential VAT hike and economic forecasts, the updated PPP rules emphasise governmental focus on collaboration with the private sector to foster economic recovery and enhance commercial property values.

READ MORE »
Opinion

Affordable housing investment needs direction

In his 2025 address, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized transforming South African cities into economic hubs through central housing and reclaiming hijacked buildings. TUHF, a leader in impact investment, champions urban densification for economic growth. Current peripheral housing developments, though cost-effective initially, lead to urban sprawl, fiscal strains, and economic exclusion. Research is needed to align housing development with economic goals. TUHF advocates infill projects to stimulate socioeconomic activity and supports government-led research for informed urban planning.

READ MORE »
Opinion

The climate change reality in South Africa: An engineer’s call to action

In South Africa, the impact of climate change is no longer a distant concern – it’s a harsh reality that is already reshaping the landscape. The country faces an unpredictable climate that brings with it an escalating frequency of extreme weather events.

…while the challenges are formidable, they are not insurmountable. The time for action is now, and engineers in South Africa are calling for climate action that can mitigate the damage and build a more resilient, sustainable future for South Africa

READ MORE »
REITs

Vukile acquires flagship Spanish mall in EUR305 million deal

Vukile Property Fund (JSE: VKE), the leading specialist retail real estate investment trust (REIT), through its 99.5% held Spanish subsidiary Castellana Properties, has acquired the largest shopping centre in Spain’s Valencia province, the iconic Bonaire Shopping Centre, from multinational retail REIT Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield.

Read More »

Mall of Mthatha: A new name for a new era of retail in Mthatha

Since its acquisition in May 2024 by Flanagan & Gerard Property Group and leading retail REIT Vukile Property Fund (JSE: VKE), Mall of Mthatha (formerly BT Ngebs City) has undergone significant enhancements aimed at elevating the shopping experience and reinforcing its position as the region’s leading retail destination.

READ MORE »

FNB: Property market overview and current trends

The latest FNB House Price Index (HPI) accelerated to 1.2% y/y in January, from 1.1% in December (revised from 0.9%) (Figure 1). While still subdued, this marks the highest growth rate since June 2023, reflecting a gradual market recovery. The upward trend suggests improving buyer sentiment, supported by easing financial pressures and evolving lending conditions.

READ MORE »
International

Burstone Group JV expands fund management strategy in Australia with growth of industrial and logistics platform alongside TPG Angelo Gordon

The Burstone Group’s Australian joint venture (JV) with the real estate fund manager, Irongate Group, has established an agreement with TPG Angelo Gordon, a diversified credit and real estate investing platform within TPG, with approximately US$91 billion assets under management. TPG is a leading global alternative asset management firm.

Read More »
International

Shaftesbury Capital reports strong financial growth in 2024, outlines optimistic outlook for West End portfolio

In a comprehensive overview of its 2024 financial performance, Shaftesbury Capital has reported impressive growth in rental income, valuation, and customer engagement despite challenging macro-economic conditions. The company’s West End portfolio, renowned for its prime location and vibrant cultural appeal, continues to draw substantial interest from both local and international investors.

Read More »
Legal

Property sector showdown: Sakeliga challenges South Africa’s PPRA regulation

South Africa’s property industry faces a significant legal battle as the business interest group Sakeliga takes on elements of the Property Practitioners Act of 2022. The group argues that the Act enforces excessive regulatory control and compels Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) compliance in unwarranted ways. A successful challenge could have widespread implications for numerous businesses, offering them more operational freedom without mandatory BEE certifications.

Read More »

Click on the cover of the
Rode Retail Report
to view the publication

In this edition, we report that retail sales rose significantly in the last quarter of 2024 compared to the same quarter a year earlier. This increase was driven by a slowdown in inflation, reduced interest rates, and two-pot retirement withdrawals. Regarding the availability of shopping space, Rode’s data indicates that the new supply of malls will rise sharply in 2025, reaching the highest level since 2019.

Click on the cover of
the Rode Report 2024:4 to view the publication

It’s been quite a dynamic start to 2025, hasn’t it? With Donald Trump back in the spotlight, his policies and statements have undoubtedly stirred the pot on the global stage, and even South Africa has faced criticism.

What are we to make of all the noise?

Click on the cover and find out!

Click on the cover of
the new look Rode SA Property Trends to view the publication

Welcome to another issue of Rode SA Property Trends. This publication provides a six-year outlook for the South African property sector until 2029, using two macroeconomic scenarios.