For some years now, SA statistics have shown that single women are buying houses at a much higher rate than single men, and in some regions at an even higher rate than couples as they seek financial independence and security*.
However, says Gerhard Kotzé, MD of the RealNet estate agency group, women also have much more particular requirements when it comes to their personal safety and physical security when choosing a home, and this is something that property developers and home sellers need to note.
“We see many young career women buying now as they discover that it can often be more affordable than renting, and older women generally buying to provide a home for themselves and children or grandchildren, sometimes after a divorce or the death of a spouse.
“And although the statistics also show that single women are generally also buying cheaper homes than either couples or single men, in most cases that does not mean that they are settling for run-down homes or high-crime areas. What it does mean is that they are often prepared to sacrifice some home size to ensure their safety, and we find that they generally favour apartments and townhouses in secure complexes over freehold homes.”
For single women currently hunting for the perfect home which also offers them great security, he has the following advice:
