Thinking about buying property to rent out on Airbnb or Booking.com? You’re not alone. More investors are turning to short term rentals as a smart investment in South Africa. With the right strategy (and the right partner), your property can do more than just pay the bills. It can become a high-performing asset that works for you, even while you sleep. Here’s how. 

Why Short Term Rentals Have Become a Smart Investment in South Africa

Over the past decade, short term rentals have transformed the way people earn from property. Platforms like Airbnb have opened doors for everyday homeowners to tap into the global travel market. In fact, according to a recent survey, almost half of South African Airbnb Hosts say that extra income helps them afford their homes and rising living costs.

Unlike traditional rentals, short term rentals offer flexible pricing that adjusts to demand, allowing you to earn more during peak seasons. It’s one of the best investment options in South Africa for anyone seeking strong returns and control over their property’s performance.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to manage it all by yourself. With Propr as your property management partner, you can enjoy the income without the stress. We handle listings, pricing, guest communication and cleaning, so you can relax knowing your property (and your guests) are in expert hands.

Top South African Cities for Short Term Rentals

When it comes to short term rentals, location matters. Thankfully, South Africa’s most popular cities each bring something unique to the table. Here’s why these cities are positioned as the best investment options in South Africa:

1. Tap Into Cape Town’s Year-Round Tourist Demand

Between Table Mountain, the beaches and year-round tourism, it’s no surprise that Cape Town ranks among the best investment options in South Africa for short-term rental apartments. Areas like Sea Point, the City Bowl, and Green Point are consistent top performers. With its mix of natural beauty, global appeal and high occupancy rates, Cape Town continues to deliver exceptional returns for short-term rental investors.

2: Make the Most of Joburg’s Steady Corporate Bookings

If you’re looking to tap into steady, year-round demand, South Africa’s commercial hub, Johannesburg, is a smart choice. The city attracts corporate travellers and digital nomads alike, creating consistent occupancy for short-term rental apartments. Suburbs like Sandton, Rosebank, and Melrose deliver reliable bookings and excellent long-term returns, making Johannesburg a strong contender for investors seeking stability and growth.

3. Invest in a Short-Term Rental in Durban for Coastal Comfort and Family Fun

Durban’s warm climate and beach culture make it perfect for family holidays. And areas like Umhlanga see strong returns, especially during school holidays and summer months. Generally, coastal properties command higher nightly rates, while city apartments maintain consistent occupancy. With Propr’s expert management, your pricing, occupancy and guest experience are all optimised for maximum performance.

What to Expect When Investing in Short Term Rentals

Investing in short term rentals in South Africa can be incredibly rewarding, and knowing what to expect upfront makes the process even smoother. Your biggest initial commitment is usually getting the property guest-ready, from furnishing and décor to the small touches that create a memorable stay. Once that setup is complete, most properties can start earning almost immediately.

It’s also helpful to understand how returns vary between neighbourhoods and property types. Well-located studio and one-bedroom apartments in major CBD areas often attract steady corporate demand, while coastal homes and larger family-friendly spaces see strong seasonal peaks, especially during school holidays and warmer months.

The encouraging part? With a strong property management partner guiding your pricing, positioning and guest experience, your short-term rental can perform at its full potential throughout the year, no matter how the market shifts.

Why Property Management is Key to Short Term Rental Success

Managing short-term rentals sounds fun until you’re juggling late-night messages, last-minute cleanings and maintenance requests. That’s why investors partner with experts like Propr. We handle guest communication, professional cleaning, and property upkeep, ensuring every stay ends with a five-star review. By partnering with Propr, you’re able to turn your short-term rental into a smart investment boasting a steady income, with minimal effort. 

Turn Your Property into a High-Earning Investment with Propr

The short-term rental market in South Africa is thriving, and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. For investors looking for a smart investment in South Africa, now is the time to take action. With Propr by your side, your property can transform into a high-performing short-term rental apartment that attracts global travellers and earns consistently. Ready to elevate your returns and simplify your hosting? Host with us and find out what your short-term rental apartment could be earning.