While Cape Town continues to dominate as the most sought-after location, there is a notable surge in interest for homes in Sandton and Bryanston, reflecting a growing appetite for prime properties in these upmarket Johannesburg suburbs.
According to data compiled by international real estate agency Pam Golding, seven of the top 20 property searches between August 2024 and January 2025 were for suburbs in the province, with Bryanston and Sandton ranking second and third respectively behind Cape Town.
“This is compared with the first quarter of 2024, when Gauteng accounted for only five of the top 20 searches on our website, with Bryanston in fifth place and Sandton seventh,” Pam Golding CEO Andrew Golding said.
Momentum has built steadily since then, with trade information company Lightstone reporting a notable rise in property sales in Johannesburg last year after six sluggish years. Bryanston and Sandton led the way, recording the highest number of transactions with 157 homes sold after being on the market for an average of 108 days.
“Sandton’s reputation as a premier business and luxury hub plays a significant role in the uptick in inquiries, particularly in the luxury market from R15m plus, where viewing interest has increased,” said Nelson Ferreira, regional head for Pam Golding Properties in Gauteng.
Ferreira said interest was not confined to SA buyers and returning expats, but also included international purchasers predominantly from African countries, and from Europe.
There has also been a notable increase in offers submitted on properties priced at R11m-R15m, he said.
Sandton’s vibrant lifestyle, thriving business scene and luxury living continue to attract international buyers — from those relocating on multiyear contracts to investors building rental portfolios in Southern Africa, Ferreira said.
While Bryanston remains a sought-after address due to its central location, top schools and easy access to the Sandton CBD just 8km away, it is also well-connected to Midrand and Tshwane via major highways, with Winnie Mandela Drive splitting the suburb in two.
“The suburb caters for every kind of buyer, from those entering the market to couples, families upscaling and high net-worth purchasers seeking luxury living, as well as those relocating to Johannesburg as a result of the return-to-office trend,” Ferreira said.
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