MAIN IMAGE: Pearl Scheltema – CEO of Fitzanne Estates
Fitzanne Estates
Youth Month spotlights the ambitions and obstacles facing young South Africans in the property market. In Pretoria and across the country, the number of home purchases by buyers under 35 has decreased over the past year. However, while volumes are lower, the intent behind each transaction reflects a more considered, long-term approach to building financial security.
According to recent Lightstone data, individuals aged 18 to 35 accounted for roughly 25% of total home loan applications in South Africa during the first half of 2025. In Pretoria specifically, transactions in this age group have seen a year-on-year decline of approximately 8%, a trend driven largely by economic pressures, stricter lending criteria and the rising cost of living.
Pearl Scheltema, CEO of Fitzanne Estates, says the challenges are significant but not insurmountable.
“Young buyers are incredibly focused,” she explains. “They’re taking longer to enter the market, but when they do, they’re investing with purpose. We’re seeing fewer impulse purchases and more structured decisions based on long-term affordability, rental return potential and proximity to work or study hubs.”
Pretoria remains in demand
Pretoria remains a key market for entry-level property, driven by a growing population of students, graduates and young professionals. Suburbs such as Equestria, Montana, and parts of Centurion continue to attract first-time buyers looking for accessible pricing and strong transport links. However, even in these areas, rising interest rates and inflation-linked municipal costs are forcing buyers to be more cautious.
“The affordability gap is where most deals fall through,” says Scheltema. “A buyer may qualify on paper, but after bond costs, levies, rates, insurance and maintenance, the actual monthly burden is just too high. Banks are also more conservative now in how they assess risk, especially for buyers with little deposit.”
Despite this, Fitzanne Estates has seen an uptick in enquiries related to long-term rental investment. Some young adults are opting to purchase smaller sectional title units in high-demand rental areas, not as primary residences, but as entry points into property investment.
“These buyers are pragmatic. They know that living with family or renting privately might be their reality for now, but they want their money in the market. It’s a different approach to ownership—slower and more intentional,” she adds.
Affordability pressures are being compounded by factors such as student debt, irregular income, and limited access to financial literacy. Many prospective young buyers lack formal education on what ownership truly entails—from transfer costs and compliance certificates, to managing body corporate responsibilities and insurance.
In response, Fitzanne Estates has expanded its educational outreach to support younger clients.
“There’s a clear gap in property literacy, and we take that seriously. Our advisory sessions are focused on walking new buyers through the full process, not just the deal itself. It’s about building sustainable ownership, not overextending people for the sake of a sale,” says Scheltema.
The company has also observed that family increasingly supports youth-led purchases. Parents co-signing bonds, assisting with deposits, or even investing jointly with their adult children is becoming a common strategy to overcome affordability hurdles.
While challenges remain, Scheltema is cautiously optimistic.
On their own terms
“This generation isn’t giving up on property. They’re just approaching it on their terms. They ask more questions. They compare options. And they push back when something doesn’t feel financially sound. That’s progress.”
As the country marks Youth Month, the focus on youth inclusion in economic opportunity continues to extend into housing. Support from credible, experienced property professionals remains essential.
“Buying property at a young age can still be a smart move,” Scheltema says. “But it has to be rooted in good advice, realistic budgeting, and a long-term view. Our role is to help close that gap between ambition and affordability in a way that lasts.”
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