Why Apartments Are Becoming South Africa’s Smartest Property Move?

As South Africa’s skyline shifts and city living continues to grow and evolve, one trend that seems to be cutting through the noise is the rise and resilience of apartment living. Championing this trend are the Devmco Realty team, who have emerged as a leading property and real estate force in the KwaZulu Natal region. Sharing their insights and opportunities they are passionate about helping South Africans interested in investing and residing in these high demand urban spaces.

According to Pamela Naidu, Sales and Marketing Director for Devmco Realty, the shift is as much about aspiration as it is about necessity. “In recent years, the market has matured. Buyers and investors alike are more discerning, and apartments have proven to offer the kind of return, flexibility, and tenant demand that stand the test of time. The locale of these apartments is still vitally important though,” she explains.

From first-time buyers and savvy investors to downsizers seeking simplicity, the appetite for well-located, lifestyle-rich apartments has surged. Devmco Realty is seeing this play out most prominently within the Sibaya Precinct, where the proposed R20 billion expansion is planned to roll out. The forthcoming Club Med South Africa Beach and Safari Resort in Tinley Manor has also re-ignited interest and optimism in the local property landscape from Umhlanga all the way up the North Coast.

“There’s no denying the impact these landmark projects have had,” Naidu says. “Sibaya is poised to become a world-class, secure precinct defined by a sophisticated blend of residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces. Add proximity to top schools, private healthcare, and retail offerings, and it becomes a compelling proposition for homeowners and investors alike.”

According to Naidu, the numbers tell their own story. Rental demand is outpacing supply, with investors scrambling to secure available stock. Strong yields and low-maintenance ownership are just part of the appeal. The real differentiator? Quality design, secure living, and curated amenities including everything from gyms and co-working lounges to integrated green spaces and smart tech.

“These lifestyle features are no longer nice-to-haves. For today’s buyer, they’re deal-makers,” says Naidu. “It’s about convenience, time-saving, and enjoying more moments with family and friends without leaving the estate.”

Local property aficionados and the Master Developers for the Sibaya Coastal Precinct, Devmco Group, have a pinpoint approach when developing residential estates which is rooted in understanding buyers’ evolving needs. Each of their developments are designed with community in mind, incorporating energy-efficient solutions, modern architecture, and spacious interiors that defy outdated notions of apartment living. While affordability remains key, particularly for first-time buyers and rental-focused investors, demand also exists for high-end apartments catering to lifestyle purchasers who value space and exclusivity. In both cases Naidu believes these fundamentals are aligned explaining, “Security, good workmanship, and a well-run body corporate are non-negotiables. If the product is well-designed, well-positioned, and priced right – demand will always follow”.

Mixed-use precincts, once viewed with hesitation, are now gaining traction again largely due to competitive pricing and the seamless integration of work, life, and leisure. And with a younger generation increasingly choosing flexibility over fixed mortgages, apartments remain a vital solution for urban expansion.

The advice for prospective buyers? “Do your homework. Look at how the building is managed, understand the levy structure, and consider newer developments where upkeep costs are lower,” Naidu advises. “And, as always, location is everything and it plays a huge role in resale value and rental demand.”

In a market where certainty is hard to come by, apartments are offering investors a rare combination of stability, scalability, and sustained demand. For Devmco Realty, the message is clear that this is not a passing trend. It’s the future of living, and it’s already here.