The property market in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is shifting—and it’s in your favour if you’re a homeowner considering selling in 2025. With buyers flocking to certain suburbs, semigration boosting demand, and prices rising steadily in the right areas, now could be the best time in years to list your home.
This comprehensive guide will show you the top-performing suburbs, what makes them attractive, and why homes are selling faster than before. Whether you’re a homeowner in Lorraine, Walmer, or Summerstrand—or just looking to understand which areas are hot—we’ll unpack it all here.
Why Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is Gaining Momentum in 2025
With its coastal charm, improving infrastructure, and affordability compared to Cape Town or Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth has emerged as a property hotspot.
Here’s why:
- Increased semigration from inland provinces like Gauteng
- Improved lifestyle appeal: beaches, safety, and schools
- Ongoing development in areas like Fairview and Lorraine
- Coega SEZ and industrial zone attracting professionals
Buyers are seeking security, affordability, and long-term value—and Port Elizabeth ticks all three.
1. Lorraine – Family Living and Fastest Growth
Lorraine is arguably the fastest-growing suburb in PE, with buyer demand up nearly 10% year-on-year.
Property Types and Pricing in Lorraine
- Full-title homes: R1.5M–R2.3M
- Townhouses: R1.2M–R1.5M
- Rental returns: R7,000–R8,500/month for 2-3 beds
Investment Potential
- Close to top schools and shopping centres
- Popular with first-time buyers and young families
- Homes sell in 10–20 days on average
If you’re selling in Lorraine, you’re likely to receive multiple offers—especially under R2M.
2. Walmer – Old Money Charm and Strategic Location
Walmer is known for its tree-lined streets, proximity to Port Elizabeth International Airport, and larger erf sizes. It appeals to upmarket buyers and expats.
Who’s Buying in Walmer?
- Executive professionals
- Retirees downsizing from larger farms
- Investors seeking long-term capital growth
Why Homes Sell Fast Here
- High walkability: cafés, boutiques, top schools
- Renovated 3-bedroom homes fetch R2.5M–R3.5M
- Modern security estates and sectional titles in high demand
If your property offers character and charm, Walmer buyers are ready.
3. Summerstrand – Coastal Living and Student Demand
Summerstrand blends beachfront living with university vibes. The area is in high demand due to its proximity to Nelson Mandela University, Boardwalk Mall, and the beachfront.
Real Estate Trends and Opportunities
- Entry-level flats: from R980,000
- Family homes: R2.4M–R5M
- High rental demand from students and holidaymakers
Buyers and investors alike are looking for coastal homes, especially with off-grid features.
4. Mill Park – Prestigious Heritage and Executive Demand
Mill Park is PE’s answer to Bishopscourt in Cape Town or Waterkloof in Pretoria. It boasts large erf sizes, leafy avenues, and elegant old homes.
Price Brackets and Buyer Profile
- Historic homes: R2.8M–R4.5M
- Sectional titles and duplexes: R1.8M–R2.2M
- Mostly bought by professionals and multigenerational families
Buyers in Mill Park appreciate heritage architecture, proximity to top schools, and quiet living.
5. Charlo, Fairview & Mount Croix – The Underrated Trio
These central suburbs are gaining ground rapidly with mid-market buyers.
What’s Driving Growth in These Areas
- Fairview: new builds and security complexes for R1.1M–R1.6M
- Charlo: family homes around R1.5M
- Mount Croix: unique character homes, many with flatlets
All three suburbs enjoy low crime, good schools, and quick access to CBD. They’re also affordable, making them a magnet for first-time buyers and investors.
6. Sunridge Park – Community, Space and Affordability
Sunridge Park is family-oriented, well maintained, and known for its neighbourly charm.
- 3-bedroom homes average R1.6M–R1.9M
- Quiet streets, parks, and community centres
- Quick access to Westering schools and amenities
It’s an ideal area for families upgrading from townhouses.
7. Bluewater Bay – Beachfront Bargains with Growing Appeal
Just a short drive from the city and Coega, Bluewater Bay offers seaside living at a discount compared to Summerstrand.
- Entry homes: R1.2M–R1.6M
- Beachside mansions: up to R4M
- Huge appeal to retirees and remote workers
Homes with ocean views and solar are hot sellers in 2025.
Property Market Trends in 2025 – Timing the Sale Right
The 2025 market in Port Elizabeth is being shaped by unique conditions:
Increased Buyer Demand in the R1m–R2m Bracket
- Most transactions are happening under R2 million
- Homes here sell within 2 weeks, on average
Off-Grid Homes Gaining Popularity
- Solar, gas geysers, and water tanks are major selling points
- Buyers are willing to pay premiums for load-shedding resilience
Top 7 Reasons Why Now is the Right Time to Sell in Port Elizabeth
1. High Buyer Interest
Semigration and affordability have brought more serious buyers into the market.
2. Record Low Days on Market
Homes under R2.2M are often selling in under 15 days.
3. Semigration from Other Provinces
Buyers from Gauteng and KZN are moving for coastal peace of mind.
4. Sectional Titles in High Demand
Townhouses, especially under R1.5M, are flying off the shelves.
5. Investor Activity on the Rise
PE is seeing a 13% rise in buy-to-let purchases, according to Property24.
6. Solar and Energy-Efficient Homes Selling Faster
Buyers want off-grid-ready properties that reduce long-term costs.
7. Price Growth in Strategic Suburbs
Prices in Lorraine, Fairview, and Charlo are up 5–10% year-on-year.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best suburbs to sell a house in Port Elizabeth right now?
Lorraine, Walmer, and Summerstrand are seeing the highest activity, followed by Fairview and Mill Park.
2. What is the average time a house stays on the market?
In hot suburbs, homes under R2 million are selling in 7–14 days.
3. Are property prices in PE increasing in 2025?
Yes, especially in areas like Lorraine (+6.8%), Fairview (+11%), and Walmer (+5.5%).
4. Is it worth selling a home that needs upgrades?
Yes, especially in high-demand areas. Buyers are snapping up fixer-uppers due to low supply.
5. Do homes with solar sell faster in PE?
Absolutely. In 2025, off-grid features are a major advantage.
6. Should I sell now or wait?
Now is ideal if your home is priced right and marketed professionally.
Conclusion
If you’re a homeowner in Port Elizabeth, this might be the golden window to sell. With buyer demand surging, properties in the right suburbs and price brackets are being sold quicker and at excellent prices.
Focus on presentation, realistic pricing, and choosing the right agent—and you could be the next success story in Lorraine, Walmer, or Summerstrand.
