As temperatures drop across the Western Cape, an age-old home feature is making a powerful comeback: heating systems. Whether it’s a traditional Victorian fireplace, sleek underfloor heating, or a solar-powered setup, buyers are prioritising winter comfort—and Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate is seeing this trend unfold across listings.
Warmth That Sells
While summer may be when most people think of property hunting, winter reveals a different side of the home—and savvy buyers are paying attention.
“Our low-maintenance combustion fireplace has been the perfect winter upgrade,” shares the owner of a Green Point heritage property currently listed with Greeff Christie’s. “It fits seamlessly into our original ornate mantel, giving us the charm we love with the convenience we need—no fuss, just consistent warmth.”
In a climate where cold, damp conditions and ongoing load-shedding are realities, heating features are no longer considered seasonal luxuries—they’ve become essentials.
What Buyers Want: Year-Round Comfort
Kurt Schultz, Sales Manager for Greeff Christie’s City Bowl, notes a growing number of listings highlighting “winter-ready” features. One standout example? A Bo-Kaap villa where a contemporary penthouse boasts a fireplace that frames sweeping views of Table Mountain and the city skyline.
In the Whale Coast region, demand is just as strong. “In Fernkloof, a six-bedroom home features hydronic underfloor heating powered by a central boiler system,” says property practitioner Gottie Scholtz. “The sellers say their family walks barefoot throughout winter, something quite rare in South Africa.”
This echoes what Rudo Kirsten, Franchise Owner for Greeff Christie’s Somerset West, is seeing too: “A fireplace or built-in braai isn’t just a lifestyle feature—it’s a practical investment that adds warmth, character, and long-term value.”
More Than Just Heat: Aesthetic Integration
According to interior design professionals, heating solutions are now seen as part of the home’s design language.
“A fireplace becomes a natural focal point, evoking a sense of comfort and tranquillity,” says Simonné Henckert of Bare Africa Design, based in Stanford. Meanwhile, decorator Elmarie de Waal, based in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, advises homeowners to think seasonally and spatially: “Fireplaces must integrate seamlessly into both summer and winter living spaces.”
This approach resonates with both local and international buyers. “Overseas clients are often fascinated by features like the indoor braai,” says Jaco van der Merwe, Principal of Greeff Christie’s Whale Coast. “But many inquire about central heating systems and often repurpose South African braai rooms into sunrooms or cosy lounges.”
What’s Hot in Winter Property Features
From restored antique stoves in heritage districts to solar-powered air-conditioning in coastal towns like Hermanus, the heating conversation is as diverse as the homes Greeff Christie’s represents. But one thing remains clear: buyers are increasingly viewing these features as more than seasonal perks—they’re long-term investments in comfort, sustainability, and lifestyle.
