Absa Group has joined the South African Multifamily Residential Rental Association (SAMRRA), becoming the second major bank to align with the sector’s representative body. This partnership signals multifamily housing’s shift from emerging opportunity to mainstream investment, with over 75,000 units and R40 billion in assets now under SAMRRA. Absa’s involvement demonstrates growing institutional confidence, supporting SAMRRA’s mission to foster collaboration, transparency, and sustainable, purpose-driven investment in South Africa’s rental housing market.

Micro developers in Cape Town’s townships are stepping forward to address the urgent need for affordable housing as municipal barriers fall. The City of Cape Town’s amendment to its Municipal Planning By-law, effective September 2025, allows landlords to build more units without rezoning, saving time and costs. Supported by uMaStandi and TUHF, these changes empower property entrepreneurs to deliver compliant, sustainable rental housing, unlocking opportunities for both developers and township residents seeking quality accommodation.

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 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.

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.

Liberty Two Degrees (L2D) is redefining retail property as vibrant community hubs, not just commercial spaces. Despite economic challenges, L2D’s South African malls continue to inspire through award-winning, purpose-driven campaigns. Their centres recently secured 35 awards at the SACSC Footprint Marketing Awards and international recognition at the Solal Marketing Awards. By focusing on meaningful experiences, technology, and community impact, L2D demonstrates how innovative marketing and customer-centric strategies can elevate the modern retail experience.

The South African Multifamily Residential Rental Association (SAMRRA) has welcomed Standard Bank of South Africa Limited (Standard Bank) as its first member from the banking sector, marking a key milestone in the evolution of South Africa’s growing multifamily rental housing market.

South Africa’s new electronic deeds registration system (eDRS), launched in April, promises to modernise property transactions, reducing paperwork and turnaround times. As digital and AI-driven platforms like TransBridj streamline processes and boost accuracy, the industry is poised for faster, more secure, and more efficient property registrations nationwide.

Cape country towns like Swellendam, Barrydale, and Gansbaai are experiencing a property boom driven by semigration, remote work, and robust local economies. Limited stock and rising demand are pushing prices higher, with well-priced homes selling quickly. Agriculture, tourism, and lifestyle appeal continue to attract buyers seeking a better quality of life.

International buyers have invested record amounts in Cape Town property hotspots this year, with sales totalling nearly R2.5 billion in the first five months. Buyers from over 40 countries, especially Germany, the UK, and the USA, are driving demand, particularly along the Atlantic Seaboard and in Hout Bay.