No one will argue that 2026 has continued, and escalated, the trend of global volatility.

It’s become almost impossible to forecast what will happen next.  Global allies have been reassessing relationships.  New alliances are forming.  Currencies that are renowned for stability have devalued.  Gold and Silver hit record highs.  And Bitcoin and had a major collapse.

So just where do you invest your hard-earned money these days?

I’d have to say that real estate is proving to be amongst the most stable of investment vehicles in this market.  Over the past 12 months there have been no drastic crashes in the South African, and even global, real estate markets.  There will always be movements upwards and downwards – as in all markets.  But not with the same volatility and instability of other investments.

Take, for example, the local Helderberg real estate market.  Demand remains consistently strong, and in reality has strengthened, as more people choose to relocate to the Western Cape.  As a matter of fact, this relocation is not only from South Africans living further north.  There is a growing trend for foreign nationals to relocate – at least for a portion of the year – to the sun-kissed Western Cape.

Then look at the supply of real estate stock.  It’s been many decades since we’ve seen such low levels of available property – both for sale and for rent.  People just don’t want to sell because they are unsure if they will find a replacement property.

When we experience growing demand and weakening supply, this creates upwards pressure on property values – both for sale and for rent.

The only counter to increased property values is buyer (and tenant) affordability.  We’ve seen the impact of this with the rate of escalation slowing down.  But values are still climbing, in some cases by as much as 8-10% over the prior year.

When you also factor in that interest rates are lower and now much more stable – then the cost of debt reduces and means that buyers can afford larger home loans.  In addition to this, banks remain keen to offer home loans to suitable clients.

So, what does that mean for property values for the foreseeable future?  We should see more of the same.  Increased demand, short supply, and continued upward pressure on property values.  Interest rates should remain stable and banks will continue to look for business. 

It means that Real Estate should remain an excellent and stable investment in an otherwise volatile world.  It makes one think of the expression “safe as houses”.

If you’re not already “in” the real estate market, then it’s by no means too late.  This isn’t a “bubble” – it’s the new norm.  Purchase with the comfort of knowing that your investment is one of the safest available in any market.

The best time to buy was 20 years ago.  The second-best time to buy is today.  Speak to a Harcourts Platinum agent about your needs and let us help you acquire an investment that will build your future wealth.