Women Strengthen South Africa’s Property Market, Accounting for Over 50% of Bond Applications

Women are increasingly becoming a pivotal force in South Africa’s property market, significantly altering demand patterns and investment trends. Recent statistics from BetterBond reveal that women constituted over half of all bond applications in the past year, indicating a substantial shift in buyer demographics.

As more women view property as a long-term wealth-building strategy, their rising involvement is reshaping how homes are financed, purchased, and positioned within a competitive market environment. Bradd Bendall, BetterBond’s national head of sales, noted that the current prime lending rate stands at 10.25%, with the national bond approval ratio reaching 63.5%. This context has led to a more deliberate approach to financial decisions among women, who are increasingly investing in property as part of their long-term wealth planning. Bendall highlighted that just over 50% of all BetterBond applications in the past year were submitted by women, while men accounted for 49.89%.

Strategic Investment Fundamentals

Successful property investors recognize that long-term wealth is cultivated through disciplined financial planning and informed decision-making. For women entering the property market, the goal extends beyond merely securing a home; it encompasses acquiring an asset that contributes to long-term financial stability and portfolio growth.

Optimise Your Cash Flow

Establishing a successful property portfolio begins with understanding how cash flow can facilitate long-term investment growth. Bendall advises that monthly bond repayments should ideally not exceed 30% of one’s monthly income. He emphasized the utility of BetterBond’s online calculators as valuable tools for financial planning prior to property viewings.

Maintaining a comprehensive view of income, expenses, and future financial commitments enables investors to make informed decisions and sustain their investments amid fluctuating market conditions. It is also crucial to consider the total cost of purchasing a property, which includes transfer duties, conveyancing fees, and moving expenses, as these can significantly increase the initial financial outlay.

Bendall recommends establishing a buffer fund for home repairs, maintenance, and other unforeseen costs. This financial cushion can protect against unexpected expenses, such as repairing a burst geyser, which could otherwise impact monthly income. By reserving funds for such occurrences, investors can enhance their investment position and ensure their properties remain well-maintained.

Deposits Improve Borrowing Capacity

Saving for a deposit remains one of the most effective strategies for improving the chances of securing a home loan and negotiating favorable lending terms. Bendall pointed out that while obtaining a bond without a deposit is possible, having funds set aside demonstrates financial discipline and mitigates risks for lenders.

A deposit not only reduces monthly repayments but also allows for greater flexibility within a broader financial plan. He recommends aiming for a deposit of at least 10% of the purchase price whenever feasible. Buyers who can provide a deposit are often perceived as lower-risk applicants and may be more likely to secure competitive interest rates. Additionally, a deposit signals to sellers that the buyer is committed and financially prepared, which is advantageous in high-demand markets.

Data from BetterBond indicates that for the 12 months ending January 2026, buyers were spending an average of R737,000 on a deposit. This figure varies based on property price and location, underscoring the importance of early financial planning and savings in the homebuying process.

Strengthen Your Negotiating Power

Obtaining pre-approval is an effective strategy to enhance a buyer’s position prior to house hunting. It provides clarity on affordability and signals to sellers that the buyer is financially capable of acting quickly when the right property is identified.

Through BetterBond, applications can be submitted not only to the existing bank but also to multiple leading banks, granting access to a variety of offers that can help secure the most competitive rates and lending terms available. Bendall noted that pre-approval significantly increases the likelihood of bond approval. BetterBond’s data reveals a 95% success rate for clients who secure pre-approval before submitting a formal bond application.

Beyond improving approval chances, pre-approval also bolsters a buyer’s negotiating position. In competitive markets, sellers are more inclined to consider offers from pre-approved buyers, as this reduces the risk of financing delays.

Home Financing as an Entrepreneur

With an increasing number of women pursuing financial independence through entrepreneurship, freelancing, or flexible work arrangements, self-employment is becoming a prevalent route to property investment. Currently, self-employed applicants represent between 10% and 12% of all BetterBond’s bond approvals. Women account for nearly 58% of the self-employed sector across the continent, indicating their growing influence in the property market.

Bendall advises self-employed buyers to maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records that are easily assessable by lenders. Banks scrutinize affordability, making it essential to have all tax returns and financial statements organized. A solid record of income and responsible financial management can demonstrate stability and strengthen a bond application.

Maintaining a healthy credit profile is crucial for all homebuyers. Collaborating with experienced professionals, including reputable bond originators, can assist self-employed buyers in addressing potential risks early and preparing necessary documentation before application submission. For women managing businesses or multiple income streams, this level of planning fosters financial credibility and supports long-term investment growth.

Protect Your Asset

Property ownership is a long-term financial commitment, and risk protection is a vital aspect of responsible ownership. Bendall notes that while life insurance is not mandatory, it plays a crucial role in safeguarding property investments against unforeseen events such as death, disability, critical illness, or retrenchment. Without adequate protection, dependents may struggle to meet bond repayments during financial disruptions.

Establishing a valid will is also essential when investing in property. An Offer to Purchase is a legally binding agreement, and financial obligations persist even if circumstances change unexpectedly. Proper estate planning ensures that property assets are transferred smoothly and that financial responsibilities are met.

By treating property as a strategic investment, supported by sound financial planning and strong credit management, women are building assets that enhance financial resilience and contribute to long-term wealth accumulation. For many women, homeownership has evolved from a milestone into a cornerstone of wealth creation and financial security.

Source: www.zawya.com

Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.

Published on 2026-05-01 12:36:00 • By the Editorial Desk