Container home trend gaining ground in JHB
'From a cost-efficiency perspective, container homes can be an attractive long-term investment, particularly for buyers with budget constraints,' says Nadia Aucamp, broker/owner of RE/MAX All Stars. 'They offer affordability, quicker construction times, and potential sustainability benefits. Additionally, they can serve as rental units or supplementary dwellings, adding value to a property with multiple structures,' she states.
However, Aucamp notes that these homes are still seen primarily as supplementary, not primary, residences. 'In most markets, traditional brick-and-mortar homes retain stronger resale value. Container homes are often viewed as temporary or movable structures, which may impact appreciation over time.'
That said, growing acceptance and potential regulatory shifts could change this perception. 'As more municipalities begin formalising container housing regulations, and as public awareness grows, we could see improved resale values and broader market acceptance,' Aucamp adds.
While interest in container housing is growing in urban pockets like Johannesburg South and the inner city, areas such as Alberton and Germiston have yet to see widespread demand. This may be due to limited buyer awareness or a cautious approach from local authorities.
Aucamp cautions that regulatory clarity remains an obstacle. 'While Johannesburg is starting to embrace alternative housing models, approval processes still vary between municipalities. Container homes must comply with the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, which includes zoning, structural safety, and fire compliance.'
Financial institutions also typically require full municipal approval before financing properties with container homes. 'Prospective buyers should ensure all municipal by-laws are followed, including obtaining approved building plans. This is especially important for securing financing and ensuring future resale value,' Aucamp emphasizes.
Across South Africa, Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, notes that there has been a gradual shift in the way people approach residential property. 'Many are not only viewing them as a place to live, but also as a way to generate income,' he states.
'Container homes offer an innovative response to changing housing needs, both for multi-generational living as well as for passive income streams. As regulation catches up with demand and market sentiment continues to evolve, we anticipate broader adoption and increased interest across the country,' he concludes.
Issued by: Kayla Ferguson
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
Bridge delays drag on
It has been two weeks since repairs to the Mzimkhulu River bridge came to an abrupt halt. Emergency repairs were supposed to run for six months but, with delays and issues in trying to close the river mouth, the October deadline does not look like it will be met. Leon Garbade (DA councillor in Ray Nkonyeni Municipality), said the ongoing issue of unpaid contractors, who have understandably ceased work, only serves to exacerbate an already dire situation. He said that observing the bridge, and what is labelled a construction site under Siboniso Duma's (MEC for Transport and Human Settlements) oversight, reveals a disheartening lack of progress with little to show, even during periods of contractor activity. 'We stand with the affected communities and demand immediate action from the Department of Transport (DoT) to revive this project and others that have similarly faltered. It is time to stop placing blame elsewhere and to focus on getting the government's house in order,' said Garbade. Nazir Shaikh, chairperson of the North Cluster Ratepayers' Association, said the operations of the DoT throughout the South Coast have ceased, including on Marine Drive. 'Regrettably, the public remains inadequately informed. An inspection of the bridge on Monday last week revealed an absence of workers and that construction machinery had been removed from below the bridge. In addition, the condition of the P464 roadway is deteriorating daily, with motor vehicle breakdowns and accidents occurring on a weekly basis,' he said. Meanwhile, Duma said in last Friday's Re-tabling of Budget speech that of the R13b budget, the DoT would need between R1.1b and R1.2b on a monthly basis to pay service providers. This applies to contractors who are responsible for the maintenance and construction of more than 54km of road networks on the South Coast. He said that the migration with regards the accounts payment system had given problems due to technical glitches, resulting in delays in the payment of invoices. Duma explained that currently, the DoT is getting only R800m from the provincial treasury and last month only received R560m. In short, it means ensuring payment to service providers within 30 days is not currently possible. Duma said the DoT would continue to engage with the provincial treasury to consolidate gains and address this challenge, in particular. 'The department has internalised the fact it will be blamed for not paying invoices, despite having enough budget,' he said. 'This has affected all government departments and the matter is being managed collectively. We have also briefed the Auditor General.' The spokesperson for the DoT, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, explained that the main aim for the bridge project now is to divert the water from pillar two to pillar eight, which has taken more than three months. 'Once closure of the mouth is concluded at pillar two the project will intensify.' HAVE YOUR SAY Like the South Coast Herald's Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
The Citizen
27-07-2025
- The Citizen
Renovate vs relocate: What's best for your home's value?
Renovate vs relocate: What's best for your home's value? For South African homeowners caught between staying put or starting fresh, the decision to renovate or relocate is more than just personal preference; it's a question of smart investment. According to property experts at REMAX Southern Africa, the answer lies in understanding which option offers a better return on investment (ROI) and holds the most potential for future house price appreciation. 'The choice between renovating and relocating hinges on a homeowner's financial goals, the state of their current property, and market conditions in both the current and potential new neighbourhoods,' says Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa. For example, he explains that in an area with slow house price appreciation, selling and upgrading could yield a better price than investing in a stagnant area. In high-demand suburbs with little stock, he recommends that homeowners upgrade their current home to ride the property value wave. Another aspect to consider when weighing up whether to renovate or relocate is the transactional costs of buying a home, such as transfer duties, legal fees, and commissions. These can typically total around 7 to 10% of the purchase price. 'These costs can offset short-term gains unless the buyer is upgrading to a home with greater long-term value potential,' Goslett cautions. Home renovations can be a strategic move, especially in an area with stable or rising property values. Updates to kitchens, bathrooms, and open-plan living spaces can significantly increase the appeal and value of a home. However, Goslett warns against overcapitalising – spending more than the area's resale values can support. Spending more than the neighbourhood can support in resale value may mean losses down the line. 'Homeowners should also consider the cost of temporary accommodation during extensive renovations and the unpredictability of construction timelines, which may erode ROI if not carefully managed,' he notes. Beyond financial returns, homeowners must consider how well their current property supports their day-to-day life, and whether they can afford to buy a new home if they wish to remain in the same suburb (perhaps because of schooling, work commutes, or family). When a home's footprint cannot accommodate the household's evolving needs, Goslett says relocating may be the more practical and cost-effective solution. Similarly, if homeowners must remain in their current location, then renovating may be the best solution. ALSO CHECK: Rotary Clubs unite for high-energy wheelchair relay
IOL News
14-07-2025
- IOL News
How AI is changing property scams
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, property scams have taken on new dimensions, with criminals leveraging sophisticated technologies like artificial intelligence to deceive potential buyers and tenants. As a new era in relationships dawns, a pivotal question arises: will AI companions become our future partners, or will human connection endure as an irreplaceable treasure? Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX Southern Africa, urges South Africans to exercise heightened caution, emphasizing, "Scammers now have unprecedented access to advanced tools such as AI, which they use to generate fake, yet incredibly realistic images and counterfeit documents, making fraudulent listings appear legitimate.' Typical property scams now often include: AI-generated property images : Criminals can easily create realistic images of non-existent properties or significantly alter existing ones, making it hard for prospective buyers or tenants to identify the fraud. Fake documentation : AI technology enables fraudsters to generate convincing property documents, such as lease agreements, title deeds, and agent credentials, increasing the risk of falling victim to scams. Social media impersonations : Scammers create fake profiles claiming affiliation with established property agencies. These profiles are meticulously constructed, making it challenging to distinguish from genuine accounts. To safeguard yourself against these modern scams, RE/MAX Southern Africa recommends: Verify agents thoroughly : Always confirm an agent's credentials with the official agency and verify their identity through official channels. Genuine agents will readily provide proof of their affiliation. Inspect properties personally : Never rely solely on digital images or virtual tours. If possible, visit the property in person or send a trusted representative to do so on your behalf. Avoid rushed transactions : Be wary of agents or property listings that pressure you to make quick decisions or immediate payments without proper documentation. Check social media profiles carefully : Watch out for newly created profiles with limited posts, friends, or interactions. Confirm agent identities through the official company website or by direct communication with the agency office. Demand official documentation and follow due diligence : Genuine transactions always involve verified documents, credit checks, and official agreements signed in person or through recognized digital platforms. "Trust your instincts and remain vigilant at all stages of property dealings. If something seems unusually attractive or too hurried, it probably is. Always choose to work with verified agents and agencies that have transparent processes and proven credibility," concluded Goslett.
