If you’ve been dreaming of owning your own real estate business, now is the perfect time to make it happen. With the property market showing promise, Century 21 South Africa is offering ambitious entrepreneurs the chance to take up prime territories across the country. As a franchisee, you won’t be going it alone — Century 21’s trusted brand, comprehensive support, and proven systems provide everything you need to thrive. Whether you’re new to real estate or ready to elevate your career, opening a franchise now could be your first step toward long-term success.
Opportunity is knocking, answer the call
With the housing market on the upswing, driven by an improving local economy and upbeat market sentiment, the timing for potential real estate business owners couldn’t be better. Here are some encouraging factors shaping the industry:
- Positive outlook: 84% of respondents surveyed in the Absa Homeowner Sentiment Index (HSI) for the third quarter of 2024 registered their confidence in the future of the market. Sentiment towards purchasing homes has also surged, now standing at 73%. BetterBond said quarter on quarter, home loan applications had increased by 6.5% in its September property brief.
- Rising property values: House price inflation rebounded to 4.7% by July 2024 from a low of 2.4% in 2023, having a knock-on impact on property prices.
- Interest rate cuts: The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) cut the repo rate by 25 basis points in September, bringing the prime lending rate to 11.5%. This created an uptick in home loan applications and new home loan approvals according to Standard Bank. Economists predict a further 75 basis points of cuts in 2025, which could create more market activity.
- GNU market shifts: Ipsos research found four in every ten (40%) online South Africans now believe that the country is headed in the right direction. This is translating to positive sentiment in the country’s trajectory.
- Energy stability: There’s improved consumer confidence due to the absence of loadshedding. Eskom achieved 200 days of loadshedding suspension by October.
- Fuel price cuts: October saw the fifth consecutive month of reductions, giving consumers some relief.
- Rentals on the rise: According to the PayProp Rental Index, an impressive 5.2% year-on-year rental growth was recorded nationally in June.
As market trends continue to improve, the stage is set for potential real estate business owners to benefit from ideal conditions. Century 21 South Africa’s franchising opportunities can make this even easier by leveraging the brand's reputation, marketing resources, and extensive network.
Franchising with Century 21 South Africa
Century 21 South Africa is currently on the search for franchisees interested in launching offices across the country. “We believe it takes a village to raise a business,” says Eva August, National Operations Manager and Head of Business. “Partnering with our world-renowned brand rather than going independently can provide several benefits that can make launching a business smoother.”
The brand is 100% committed to franchisee success and provides support through proven tools and programmes. These include property practitioner training (Century 21 University), business performance management (MOON system), national marketing campaigns, operational support, team recognition (Pearl Awards), and community support through collaboration with other Century 21 leaders.
Rob Severin, Principal and Owner of Century 21 Wildlife Properties, has experienced the advantage that comes with the brand’s close-knit network. “We collaborate with offices nearest to us but we’re just a call or email away from others in the country when we need to pick their brain for ideas or do referrals,” he says.
Franchisees will also gain the advantage of being part of a global brand with an extensive reach, opening doors to international opportunities and a wider customer base. Century 21 was named a 'Top Franchise for 2023' by Franchise Business Review and in 2021 it was ranked as the ‘#1 Fastest-Growing Franchise’ by Entrepreneur magazine.
“People globally know Century 21 and this helps us as we exist in a tourist market in Hoedspruit,” says Severin. “Potential buyers immediately identify with the Century 21 brand; even before they get to South Africa, they’re familiarising themselves with our real estate agents and sending us enquiries.”
Those interested in taking the next step can contact Century 21 South Africa through the national website and go through the discovery process with the franchise development team.
“Our model is not about conforming to our policies and procedures, about disclosure, or having a big brother dictating how to run your business,” says Harry Nicolaides, CEO at Century 21 South Africa. “Instead, we’re geared to make your business profitable and bankable. I invite you to reach out and we can discuss how we can ensure you not only survive but grow in any property cycle.”