Why Greener Homes Are the Future of South African Living

What if your next home saved you money, reduced your environmental footprint, and came with perks for being eco-conscious?

That’s no longer a futuristic fantasy, it’s fast becoming the new normal in South Africa’s property market.

“Sustainability is no longer a trend,” says Eva August, CEO of Century 21 South Africa. “It’s a responsibility.” In a revealing conversation with Simon Brown on MoneywebNOW, August pulls back the curtain on how green living has gone mainstream, reshaping everything from how homes are built to how they’re financed and even how much they’re worth.

From Trendy to Necessary: The Rise of the Green Standard

Just a few years ago, installing solar panels and buying LED bulbs was seen as progressive. Today? It’s the bare minimum.

“Younger, tech-savvy buyers aren’t asking if a home is sustainable,” August says. “They’re assuming it is. It’s become an expected standard, not a luxury.” And this shift isn’t cosmetic. We’re not talking about cute herb gardens on balconies. We’re talking about deep infrastructure changes: smart water use, superior insulation, and designing homes that work with the climate, not against it.

And guess what helped fast-track this mindset?

Covid.

“Covid made us all think smaller and smarter,” August explains. “We learned to use less, waste less, and value space more. That mindset stuck.”

Solar Isn’t the Whole Story It’s Just the Start

Yes, solar panels are still a big part of the green home equation, but true sustainability goes further. Today’s green homes are built with energy efficiency, water conservation, and long-term livability in mind right from the blueprint stage.

“Developers who don’t get this are being left behind,” warns August. “Sustainability isn’t just a trend, it’s a business requirement.” In fact, developers not embracing eco-conscious construction are already struggling to compete, especially as councils tighten regulations and buyers get savvier.

Banks Are Finally Catching Up And It’s About Time

You might assume going green means paying more. But with banks and financial institutions rolling out green home loans, you might actually pay less.

“Banks that offer sustainable financing products are outperforming their competitors,” August notes. “For many buyers, it’s the deal-maker or breaker.”

Even service providers are joining in, registering with the National Credit Regulator to offer financing options for solar installations, smart water systems, and other eco-upgrades. In other words: you don’t need deep pockets to live sustainably anymore.

What About Older Homes? Retrofitting is the Real Game-Changer

Think your old home can’t go green? Think again.

There’s a quiet revolution happening in retrofitting. From smart meters that optimize energy usage to solar systems that feed electricity back into the grid (yes, and get you rebates), existing homes are getting sustainable makeovers often with minimal investment.

“Don’t demolish it, upgrade it,” says August. “Most changes are small but impactful. Better insulation, smarter wiring, efficient water usage these things go a long way.”

Plus, cities like Johannesburg are experimenting with load-managing meters, and councils are beginning to reward green households with rebates and incentives. Today’s equivalent of gym points or loyalty cards? Green living rewards.

The Future Isn’t Just Sustainable It’s Smarter, Cooler, and More Affordable

What’s clear is this: eco-friendly homes aren’t just for the eco-warriors anymore.

They’re for the budget-conscious family tired of load shedding. The first-time buyer who wants long-term value. The tenant who wants a cooler flat without the energy bill. Green homes are no longer a lifestyle statement; they’re becoming the smartest way to live.

“You don’t make more land,” August reminds us. “We’ve got what we’ve got. Let’s make it lekker for everyone.”

So, whether you’re building, buying, or retrofitting, the future of housing is green. And it’s already here.