MAIN IMAGE: Carmel Alexander – Nedbank head of sales, Pretoria & Country
Advertorial
Beginning her career at Nedbank in 2003, Carmel Alexander, Nedbank head of sales, Pretoria & Country gained experience in various positions within the organisation. Her passion for sales ignited when she was appointed as a branch manager. This position made her realise that sales is not merely about convincing someone to buy – it’s much bigger than that.
“Sales is about helping someone believe in what’s possible, and it’s about deeply understanding their goals, their challenges, and their aspirations and then helping them realise a better version of their future.“
Here she gives us the scoop on what’s happening in Pretoria.
Pretoria and its surroundings have consistently bucked the general downward trend during high interest rates. Why do you think this is?
Pretoria’s resilience in the face of high interest rates is due to several factors:
- The strong demand in high-end markets, particularly in Pretoria East and Centurion, attracts financially stable buyers who prioritise lifestyle, security, and long-term investment over short-term affordability.
- The ongoing infrastructure development and urban growth have made Pretoria increasingly attractive, with gated communities and lifestyle estates like Silver Lakes Golf Estate and Woodhill driving demand despite high interest rates.
- Property prices in Pretoria have remained stable, especially near universities and government hubs.
- Buyer confidence and market strategy in Pretoria remain strong, with serious buyers still active in secure estates and well-priced properties.
What does Pretoria offer to prospective buyers?
Pretoria is attracting savvy property buyers due to its diverse property options, including sectional title units in Centurion and luxury estates. The city’s proximity to Johannesburg and its role as South Africa’s administrative capital make it ideal for professionals and government employees.
Areas like Menlyn, Equestria, and Montana are experiencing strong growth due to infrastructure upgrades and lifestyle appeal. Property prices remain stable, attracting first-time home buyers to areas like Doringkloof, The Reeds, and Highveld, where full-title homes start at around R1.7 million. The supportive buying environment is shifting into a buyer’s market, with real estate agencies actively guiding buyers through the process.
Let’s get suburb-specific; where are you seeing the most demand for property, and what are people looking for?
The property market in Pretoria is experiencing notable suburb-specific demand, with buyers exhibiting distinct preferences influenced by lifestyle choices, affordability, and investment aspirations. The highest levels of interest are seen in areas such as Pretoria East, Menlyn, Brooklyn, Hatfield, Garsfontein, Montana Park, and Centurion – each characterised by unique features from secure living in lifestyle estates to urban apartments and family homes.
Buyers are seeking sectional title units. They are especially favoured by first-time buyers and investors due to their affordability and security, with average prices being around R1.2 million.
Freehold homes remain appealing to families, priced from R1.7 million to R3 million, while high-end buyers are increasingly targeting luxury homes in security estates, which often see competitive bidding and range from R3 million upwards.
Are you seeing an influx of reverse semigration into Pretoria and its surroundings?
Pretoria is experiencing a trend of reverse semigration, significantly impacting its property market. Several factors contribute to this trend:
- Affordability – You have choices in Pretoria, and you can find properties from R800 000 and upwards, which makes it appealing to diverse buyers.
Job opportunities – Gauteng is South Africa’s central job hub.
Service delivery – Pretoria is considered more reliable than some areas of Johannesburg, attracting families and professionals.
Lifestyle estates – Secure estates seem to be popular among buyers. - Market growth – There’s an increase in bond applications and high demand for student housing, particularly due to the University of Pretoria.
Demographics: Families, young professionals, and investors are moving back for better value and growth potential.
There is a stereotype that Pretoria and Johannesburg are dangerous areas. What do you make of this?
It’s a stereotype that is probably rooted in some uncomfortable truths. Pretoria and Johannesburg CBD are known for their high rate of crime, such as robberies, hijackings, and assaults. However, crime is localised, with safer areas in Pretoria benefiting from strong security measures.
Despite crime risks, many residents in both Johannesburg and Pretoria thrive using community policing, gated communities, and security apps. Therefore, while crime is a concern, both cities also offer cultural and economic opportunities for those who navigate safely and wisely.
What do you predict will happen in the Pretoria property market during the latter half of 2025?
Pretoria is emerging as a resilient and promising property market in South Africa. I think the Pretoria property market is expected to experience some changes in the second half of 2025, influenced by various factors such as the following:
- Moderate price growth – Property prices are likely to increase slightly, particularly in popular suburbs like Pretoria East and Centurion, due to higher demand than supply.
- Student housing boom – The large student population at the University of Pretoria will heighten the need for affordable rentals, especially near Hatfield and Brooklyn.
- Reverse semigration – Professionals and families are moving back to Pretoria for its affordability and job opportunities.
Do you have any tips you could share with estate agents when it comes to helping a buyer secure a home loan?
Estate agents play a crucial role in assisting buyers with the home loan process. To enhance success and build trust, agents should do the following:
- Educate buyers early on by explaining the significance of credit scores, deposits, and overall affordability. Utilising tools such as bond calculators can aid buyers in understanding their financial status while encouraging them to review their credit reports for errors before applying.
- Promote preapproval through a bond originator to demonstrate to sellers that the buyers are serious and allow agents to align buyers with suitable homes.
- Collaborate with bond originators to streamline applications with various banks, increasing the likelihood of approval and better interest rates.
Agents need to maintain clear and frequent communication, keeping buyers informed about timelines and document requirements and additionally, offering financial guidance by advising on the importance of saving for a deposit. By positioning themselves as trusted advisers, agents can navigate clients through the financial complexities of purchasing a home and explain the conveyancing aspects of the transaction.
