Foreword: Nick Gaertner

As we enter the last month of 2022, I would like to thank you for your continued support over the past 12 months. While the global Covid pandemic is very much behind us, this year has by no means been smooth sailing. The global economy has endured some of its most turbulent times in recent history, and increased living costs are putting the majority of the population under sustained financial pressure. We are all in it together and – although not always easy – it is important to remember that tough conditions almost always present us with new opportunities.

The past year for Knight Frank has thankfully been a good one, and we are fortunate to have a strong team and partners around us that have contributed to our success. We have made significant and exciting business changes, and I look forward to continuing our growth in the new year.

The Cape Town residential property market has yet again proved incredibly robust, with high demand for rental and sales properties. Semigration numbers into Cape Town continue to grow, and while locals may complain about increased congestion in many of the city’s ‘hot spots,’ it is great for the local economy and the value of property. Globally, we learned that the population surpassed eight billion people in November, and while my opinion is somewhat biased, there is no denying the fact that land is rapidly and exponentially becoming more valuable. While markets will always fluctuate, investing in property has, and always will, been one of the best long-term investments that one can make.

I would like to wish you and your loved ones a safe and relaxing festive season. I hope that you enjoy the magazine and that this edition gives you some inspiration going into the new year.

NICK GAERTNER

Director & Chief Operations Officer Knight Frank South Africa