Selling your home as a single woman? Here’s how to stay safe

Single women are now the largest group of homebuyers and owners in South Africa, making up just over 60% of first-time buyers. Among existing homeowners, 39% are single women, 31% are single men, and 30% are couples. This demographic shift means more single women are also becoming home sellers – and with that comes the need to protect both their financial and personal safety during the selling process.

Denese Zaslansky, CEO of FIRZT Realty, says that while selling a home is a major undertaking for anyone, it can be especially challenging for single women - many of whom also have children or elderly parents in their care.

“It’s essential to work with a trustworthy, experienced estate agent who takes safety seriously,” she advises. “A professional agent will screen prospective buyers, supervise viewings, and act as a buffer between the seller and the public. It’s preferable to choose an agent you know, or who comes highly recommended.”

READ: Women in property: Navigating challenges and opportunities

Zaslansky recommends agreeing on clear safety protocols for private viewings and show days:

• By appointment only - Never entertain walk-ins responding to a For Sale sign. Direct them to your agent.
• Protect privacy - Remove personal items, photographs, calendars, mail, or documents with personal details from view.
• Secure valuables - Lock away jewellery, electronics, handbags, wallets, medication, and any other valuables before a viewing.
• Post-show checks - After every show day, inspect the home to ensure nothing is missing, all entry points are secured, and security systems are functioning.
• Be cautious online - Avoid posting your address, show day dates, or identifiable home photos on social media. Keep moving dates private.

Vacant homes can also be targets, so sellers should work with their agents to maintain security until new owners move in. Above all, Zaslansky says, trust your instincts: “If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, end the interaction or have someone you trust present. Safety comes before a sale.”

What women want in today’s market

Kobie Potgieter, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Independent Properties, says financially independent women – from professionals to entrepreneurs and single mothers – are entering the market with confidence. “They’re driving demand for homes that offer security and peace of mind, such as access-controlled estates, as well as low-maintenance living, community connection, and proximity to family, work, and essential services.”

She notes that developments like Westbrook, with walkable communities, schools, retail spaces, and 24/7 security, are proving highly attractive. “These estates offer the balance of independence, lifestyle, and safety many women seek.”

Another growing trend is multi-generational living, often led by women, where homes are purchased with the long-term goal of caring for both children and aging parents. “Women aren’t just participating in the market – they’re reshaping it,” says Potgieter.

READ: SA's evolving property market: Growth in Pretoria, Gqeberha, and KZN

Estates, lifestyle, and financial empowerment

On the North Coast, Kim Peacock, Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Dolphin Realtors, says single professional women, mothers, and retirees are prioritising secure lifestyle estates such as Simbithi, Dunkirk, Zululami, and Elaleni. “Community, safety, and wellness are central to their decisions - alongside making emotionally intelligent and financially sound choices.”

In the Western Cape, Barbara Larney, Broker/Manager of RE/MAX Wine and Whales, highlights the rise of women using the stokvel model to collectively invest in property. “It’s making property ownership more accessible while building wealth and financial empowerment within communities.”

A market-shaping segment

Across the country, single women are no longer a niche buyer group. They are a driving force influencing how developers design homes, how agents market properties, and how the industry responds to changing lifestyle demands.

As Zaslansky sums up: “With the right professional support, safety measures, and market knowledge, single women sellers can navigate the process confidently - and on their own terms.”