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Mark Pettipher

Mark Pettipher

  • Joined: 12 June 2024
  • Articles: 518

RICS Africa Conference 2025: a well attended success

Kushinga Kambarami

The RICS Africa Conference, supported by WPN, IFC, Fortress, IREM, and BROLL, convened economists, urban planners, and investors in Johannesburg to explore Africa’s economic and urban future. Key topics included climate resilience, economic reform, and the urgent need for green building. Experts discussed urbanisation challenges, innovative property valuation, project financing, and the transformative role of technology, with Rwanda’s Kigali Innovation City showcased as a model for sustainable, knowledge-driven urban development across the continent.

SAMRRA appoints Palesa Mkhize as first full-time CEO, signalling growth in South Africa’s multifamily rental housing sector

Palesa Mkhize

The South African Multifamily Residential Rental Association (SAMRRA) has appointed Palesa Mkhize as its first full-time CEO, signalling a new era for the sector. With over R40 billion in assets and 75,000 units represented, SAMRRA is poised for growth and greater institutional investment. Mkhize, an experienced housing finance leader, will focus on transparency, investor confidence, and data-driven decisions, helping shape a more inclusive and investable future for South Africa’s multifamily rental housing market.

TUHF appoints Aidan-John Rothman as incoming CEO following 18-month succession plan

AJ Rothman

TUHF Holdings has announced Aidan-John (AJ) Rothman as its new CEO, effective 1 October 2025, succeeding founding CEO Paul Jackson. This follows a transparent succession process led by the Board and Remco. AJ brings extensive experience in investment banking, structured finance, and affordable housing, having consulted for TUHF since 2019. The Board is confident that AJ will deepen TUHF’s market relevance and impact, building on Jackson’s legacy of inclusive urban regeneration and sustainable growth.

High Street Auction Co. helps give new life to old buildings 

Office conversions

Property conversions are currently transforming the real estate landscape. Office blocks are being turned into apartments, retail centres into medical facilities, and workshops into storage spaces. According to Greg Dart of High Street Auction Co, auction platforms help unlock liquidity and provide a foundation for redevelopment. Repurposing existing buildings is often preferred over rebuilding, as it saves costs and time, and supports sustainability. Mixed-use developments and residential conversions are particularly popular, driven by urban migration and changing lifestyle needs.

Hyprop sells 50% stake in Hyde Park Corner for R805mn, Eyes full exit and European expansion

Hyde Park Corncer shopping mall

Hyprop Investments has sold a 50% stake in Johannesburg’s Hyde Park Corner shopping centre to Millennium Equity Partners for R805 million, with an option to sell the remaining share. The deal aligns with Hyprop’s strategy to focus on regional malls and expand into Central and Eastern Europe. Millennium’s Thato Faku says the acquisition demonstrates their commitment to high-quality, community-focused retail assets. Proceeds will reduce Hyprop’s debt and fund growth initiatives, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Growthpoint’s new Sandton Drive link bridge connects to Sandton Central

Sandton Drive link bridge

Growthpoint Properties has begun construction on the R26 million Sandton Drive Link Bridge, connecting The Place at 1 Sandton Drive and Sandton City shopping centre. Designed for safety and visual impact, the bridge features a covered glass viewing deck and stainless-steel walkway, offering panoramic views and eco-friendly lighting. This landmark enhances mobility, safety, and connectivity in Sandton Central, symbolising Growthpoint’s commitment to innovative urban design and creating people-friendly, accessible spaces for the entire precinct.

V20 Summit and Conference set to convene in Cape Town

V20 Committee

The Valuation 20 (V20) Summit and Conference will be held in Cape Town from September 15–16, 2025, bringing together global leaders to discuss “Valuation for Sustainability and Inclusive Growth.” Hosted by the Assessors and Registered Valuers Foundation, IVSC, and SAIV, the event will focus on integrating technology, ESG principles, and international standards in valuation. The summit aims to inspire young professionals and reinforce the vital role of valuation in sustainable development and economic inclusion.

Young South Africans still value homeownership, despite market pressures

Rhys-Dhyer

Rhys Dyer, CEO of ooba Group, believes property ownership remains accessible to youth, who see it as a route to generational wealth, though they’re entering the market later. ooba Home Loans’ data from 2014 to 2024 shows applicants aged 24-33 accounted for 39% of applications, but this dropped by 12% in 2024 due to economic challenges. Meanwhile, first-time homebuyer activity increased by 4% for ages 33-43 and 10% for those 43-plus.

Credeq launches, unlocking the credit Africa needs

Helgaard Muller

Credeq Africa has officially launched as an independent Underwriting Management Agency (UMA), evolving from Lombard Insurance’s Guarantee and Trade Credit division. Led by Managing Director Helgaard Müller, the company now offers faster, more flexible guarantees and credit insurance across sectors like construction, mining, and trade. As part of the global Credeq group, this move enables Credeq Africa to innovate, develop new products, and tailor solutions for clients facing complex and changing risks.

Reside Summit 2025 returns to Johannesburg with Africa’s top residential real estate leaders and innovators

Reside artwork

The Reside Summit returns on 9-10 July 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, under the theme “Transforming Spaces, Enriching Lives.” Now in its third year, the summit brings together Africa’s leading experts in real estate, urban development, and innovation. Attendees will engage in high-level discussions, workshops, and networking sessions focused on affordable housing, sustainability, and smart cities. The event also introduces an Open Day, inviting broader participation and fostering inclusive dialogue on the future of living.

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