Smart Moves: Expert guidance for student accommodation into 2026

• Early planning secures choice, safety, and affordability for students.
• Understand total living costs beyond monthly rent.
• Professional support helps students and investors make smarter decisions.

The New Student Housing Playbook

As the 2026 academic year approaches, thousands of students and parents across South Africa are already racing to secure accommodation. With over 500,000 student beds needed nationwide, starting early has become critical, not just for comfort, but for academic success.

Student accommodation continues to offer strong value for both investors and tenants. For investors, demand remains resilient and predictable, while for students, well-managed housing delivers safety, convenience, and stability during a pivotal life stage.

Demand and the true cost

‍South Africa’s tertiary student base continues to expand, with over 600,000 learners receiving study funding in 2025. Potchefstroom alone saw a 4% rise in student numbers, underscoring the strain on available housing.

In Potchefstroom for example, private rentals typically range from R3,500 to R14,000 per month, among the most affordable in the country. But rent is just the start. Deposits, utilities, groceries, and transport easily bring monthly costs to between R7,000 and R15,000.

“Many first-time students underestimate the full cost of living,” says Elmor Kruger, co-owner of Century 21 Student Hub. “We make transparency a priority, breaking down every cost so families can plan ahead and avoid financial shocks.”

Safety and accreditation matter

‍Security remains a top concern. Century 21 Student Hub pre-vets all listings to ensure properties meet key safety criteria, secure access control, good lighting, and proximity to campus.

Partnering with Mooirivier Beskerming, the company ensures patrols twice daily and visible emergency information at all sites.
“We only work with accredited landlords and vetted properties,” Kruger adds. “Students’ safety is non-negotiable.”

Timing Is Everything

‍The student rental cycle runs from September to February, and timing can make or break your options. Waiting until December or January often means limited supply and inflated prices.

Start your search as soon as university acceptance arrives. Early movers enjoy:

• Access to the widest property pool
• Better negotiating leverage
• Time to compare and prepare

Key considerations for students and owners

‍Students should weigh factors beyond rent, proximity to campus, transport savings, and reliable Wi-Fi. All-inclusive rentals provide budget clarity. Furnished units reduce setup costs, and purpose-built residences increasingly offer premium features like solar power, study zones, and community spaces.

For owners, student rentals provide consistent occupancy and strong yields when managed professionally.

Partnering with an expert agency ensures compliance with the Property Practitioners Act (2019) and protection under the Consumer Protection Act (2008).

The Way Forward

‍Century 21 Student Hub continues to redefine student accommodation through transparency, safety, and professionalism.

“We call ourselves Smarter. Bolder. Faster. because that’s what the market needs,” says Kruger. “Students get peace of mind, parents get reassurance, and investors get a managed, compliant asset.”

The message for 2026 is clear: start early, plan smartly, and rely on experienced professionals. In a tightening market, preparation and trusted guidance make all the difference between finding your ideal home, or missing the opportunity entirely.

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