In an evolving landscape, two suburbs are drawing notable online attention: Bryanston and Sandton.

• With the rise of digital property platforms, more South Africans are turning to the web as their first stop in the search for a dream home.
• According to Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group, these two locations have surged in popularity based on recent website search data.
• While Cape Town retains the top spot, Bryanston and Sandton are now second and third respectively in online property interest.
• Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.

From August 2024 to January 2025, seven of the top 20 search queries on Pam Golding’s website were for Gauteng suburbs, with Bryanston and Sandton leading the charge. This marks a significant increase compared to the first quarter of 2024, when only five Gauteng suburbs appeared in the top 20, and Bryanston and Sandton ranked fifth and seventh. The data reflects not only a rebound in confidence in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs but also a deeper shift in what both local and international buyers are seeking.

Nelson Ferreira, Pam Golding’s regional head for Gauteng, notes that Sandton’s stature as South Africa’s corporate and luxury capital continues to be a major drawcard, particularly in the R15-million-plus bracket. Viewing interest has seen a notable spike in this tier, with buyers ranging from high-net-worth locals to returning expats and international investors, especially from other African nations and parts of Europe.

Properties in the R11-million to R15-million range are also seeing heightened activity, with more offers being submitted. Ferreira explains that while many international buyers are relocating with mid-term work contracts, others are looking to build rental portfolios by acquiring premium apartments.

For local first-time buyers and savvy investors, the recent adjustment of the transfer duty threshold to R1.21-million has positively influenced market activity at the lower end, accelerating the speed of sales in that price category. These buyers are increasingly drawn to Bryanston, a lush, well-situated suburb nestled within greater Sandton. Known for its leafy charm and accessibility, Bryanston offers the best of both suburban tranquillity and urban proximity. It’s just 8km from the Sandton CBD and approximately 17km from Midrand, with quick access to highways for those commuting to Tshwane. The suburb is bisected by the busy Winnie Mandela Drive, dividing the east and west sides, each with its own property character.

Bryanston’s appeal lies in its wide range of property options. The suburb accommodates everyone from entry-level buyers to established families and ultra-wealthy individuals. Full title homes range from R3-million to R40-million, while estates offer residences between R3.5-million and R30-million. Sectional title townhouses, popular with young professionals and first-time buyers, are priced from R900’000 to around R8-million.

Nelson points out that Bryanston is currently experiencing high demand across several distinct market segments, even in the face of oversupply in certain areas. The development market is particularly robust. Developers are actively acquiring freehold properties between 1’900sqm and 4’200sqm to create cluster-style and sectional title developments. Rezoned land is especially in demand, trading at around R1’000 per square metre, offering excellent returns on redevelopment. Subdivision is also a growing trend, driven by both developers and individual homeowners looking to unlock hidden value or adapt properties for multi-generational living.

Full title homes remain a cornerstone of Bryanston’s property offering, with larger stands particularly attractive to developers. In Bryanston West, homes start at R3-million for a spacious four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom property, rising to R15-million for properties ripe for renovation. Bryanston East features newer builds, with prices starting at R5-million and extending up to R40-million, offering both lifestyle appeal and investment potential.

The sectional title segment is thriving, particularly for buyers looking for secure, lock-up-and-go convenience. The market is highly competitive, with older units contending with new developments offering attractive pricing and modern amenities. Studios start at R900’000, while two-bedroom units range between R1.2-million and R1.7-million. Three-bedroom apartments or townhouses fall within the R3.3-million to R4.7-million bracket. In Bryanston East, many buyers are after expansive freehold properties with four or more bedrooms, while others prefer modern cluster homes offering 400–600sqm of living space on plots of around 1’000sqm.

Cluster and gated estates form another high-demand segment, with prices starting around R3-million and climbing well above R20-million for premium homes. These estates offer the benefits of security, larger stands, and lower levies compared to many sectional title units. With high buyer interest, properties in this category tend to sell quickly.

Beyond property specifics, Bryanston’s location and amenities complete the package. It is home to some of Sandton’s top schools, including Bryneven Primary, Bryanston High School, Brescia House, St Stithians College, and The British International College. The suburb also enjoys proximity to Redhill School and boasts recreational facilities like the exclusive Bryanston Country Club. Its top-tier shopping centres, leafy parks, and robust road network further cement its status as a highly desirable address.

As more buyers take to the internet to explore their property options, the data reveals a compelling narrative: Sandton and Bryanston are not just holding their ground – they’re surging ahead. Whether it’s for work, investment, lifestyle, or family, these areas are increasingly top of mind for anyone looking to make a smart property move in Johannesburg.

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