While political and economic uncertainty is likely to continue across the globe next year, it is hoped that local economic growth will be modestly stronger, which will be more supportive for the South African housing market, Pam Golding CEO Dr Andrew Golding said on Monday.

“Economists and commentators in general are more positive about growth next year, while business confidence has improved, which, in turn, enhances overall sentiment, which is a key driver of the residential property market.

“Much depends on the performance of the rand, but on balance the general expectation is that inflation will fall quite noticeably by the second half of 2017, hopefully with the Reserve Bank looking to cut interest rates during this latter part of the year,” he said.

Golding added that the prospect of anticipated stronger US growth would support the South African economic growth rate, but warned that a stronger dollar and an increase in US interest rates could impact the rand, with implications for inflation and exerting pressure on local interest rates.

He highlighted that, against this backdrop, a recurring theme internationally was that global uncertainty made property an attractive investment, with potentially good returns and the opportunity for capital preservation.

“We anticipate that 2017 will see the continuation of a number of prevailing trends, including the desire among first-time buyers to acquire a foothold on the property ladder and own their own homes,” he said.

Further, an ongoing trend toward investment in mixed-use developments mainly in metropolitan hubs, as well as the development of secure private estates and sectional title complexes, would drive property investment.

“This incorporates the growing popularity of a convenient lifestyle within easy reach of all amenities and transport, and encompassing the live, work, play, shop concept.”

The transition to green and sustainable living, partially owing to pricing pressures resulting from the prolonged drought and rising electricity tariffs, would also continue and see a continued shift to energy and water efficiency, while factors such as the ongoing migration of people, the supply of new housing units and lifestyle trends would also highlight the importance of understanding the dynamics of the housing market when making a sound investment decision.