17/04/2026
As someone who works at the intersection of Real Estate and Town Planning, I’ve come to appreciate just how closely these two professions are linked - and yet, how often they operate apart.
In my day-to-day work, I see it clearly.
On the one hand, as a property practitioner, I engage with clients who are focused on value, return on investment, and opportunities- especially in growing sectors like Airbnb and short-term rentals. On the other hand, as a town planner, I understand that every property exists within a broader framework of zoning, land use management, and municipal regulation.
And that’s where the disconnect often begins.
I’ve seen investors purchase properties with the intention of running Airbnb units, only to later discover that zoning, body corporate rules, or municipal by-laws don’t fully support their plans. Not because the opportunity isn’t there - but because the planning framework wasn’t fully understood from the start.
At the same time, I’ve seen how planning processes - while necessary - can sometimes feel disconnected from real market conditions. Delays, compliance requirements, and lengthy approvals can slow down development, even where there is clear demand.
The reality is, both perspectives are valid.
South Africa is now moving toward a more regulated short-term rental environment. Municipalities are tightening controls, and national government is increasingly focused on formalising the sector. This is not about stopping investment—but about managing land use in a way that is sustainable and fair.
From where I stand, the issue is not Airbnb itself.
The real challenge is alignment.
We need property practitioners who understand zoning and land use rights - not just sales.
We need town planners who understand market dynamics - not just policy.
Because when these two worlds don’t speak to each other, projects stall, investments are misinformed, and opportunities are lost.
But when they do align-that’s where real value is created.
As professionals in the built environment, I believe we have a responsibility to bridge this gap. To guide clients better. To think more holistically. And to contribute to a property sector that is not only profitable, but also sustainable and well-planned.
That’s the future I’m working towards.
The City of Cape Town plans to place properties listed on platforms like Airbnb on the same rates structure as hotels if the properties are available to rent for more than half the year.
