1008618413__20260503__0 Traditional property lifecycle relies on older generations downsizing, which naturally unlocks established suburban family homes for the next generation of upwardly mobile, first-time buyers.
Due to the high interest rates and the sheer cost of living, the younger generation is struggling to achieve independence, with adult children staying in the family home into their 30s.
Instead of selling an empty nest, parents are actively repurposing their properties to accommodate a full one, says Gerhard Kotze, the CEO & Franchisor at RealNet Properties SA.
He says the primary home has effectively become a vital economic buffer for the entire family.
“This is the true knock-on effect we need to acknowledge. "Ageing in place" might look like an inventory bottleneck from a pure market liquidity standpoint, but from a household perspective, it's a necessary protective strategy against economic pressure.”
