December is supposed to be the month the market drifts into holiday mode… but Cape Town didn’t get the memo. Between returning expats, summer tourism, and pre-2026 positioning, the final stretch of the year is buzzing with quiet confidence — and some very strategic moves.
Here’s what’s shaping the market right now:
1. The Great December Homecoming
Every December, thousands of South Africans living abroad “come home for the holidays” — and this year, they’re not just packing suitcases, they’re quietly shopping for property.
From Camps Bay villas to City Bowl lock-up-and-gos, expat buyers are:
- viewing while on vacation
- securing rentals for 2026 relocation
- or making offers before flying back
December’s soft sunshine + favourable pricing + lifestyle pull = expat fuelled momentum.
2. Summer Tourism = Investor Gold
Cape Town is heading into what tourism boards are calling a record-breaking summer.
And with full flights, packed restaurants, and hotels nearing capacity, investors are snapping up:
- short-term rental apartments
- furnished CBD studios
- Sea Point and Green Point units with views
Holidaymakers often turn into homeowners — and savvy investors know December is when those enquiries start.
3. Sellers Are Releasing Stock Before January Surge
December used to be the “quiet listing month.” Not anymore.
This year, we’re seeing sellers list ahead of the January wave because:
- expat buyers are here now
- holiday viewings lead to faster decisions
- competition is lower than in early January
Listing in December is becoming a secret strategy — and it’s working.
4. High-End Rentals Are Flying
The festive season brings a spike in demand for top-end rentals — especially in:
- Clifton
- Fresnaye
- Bantry Bay
- Camps Bay
Landlords with beautifully furnished, energy-resilient rentals have their pick of tenants.
And rates? Firm. Very firm.
5. Buyers Are Positioning for 2026
The smart money is using December to prepare for next year’s moves.
We’re seeing:
- bond pre-approvals increasing
- off-plan reservations for mid-2026 occupation
- investors diversifying into both CBD and secondary suburbs
December may feel relaxed, but the groundwork being laid now will define Q1.
Bottom Line?
December might look like downtime, but it’s actually one of the most strategic months of the year. From expat buyers to early-bird sellers and investors capitalising on tourism-driven demand, the market is warm, active, and quietly ambitious.
Live Real Estate — Where insight meets timing. Let’s get ahead of 2026 together.
