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Profile of the Month, Simonne Wakefield – Double.D Property

Aug 10, 2026

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Looking back on your career, do you have a funny story to share?

My career started in law and banking. In terms of real estate there is no particular story that stands out- each day is a new adventure and you have no idea what is coming your way. From a seller lying by the pool scantily dressed while the professional home photo shoot is being done to homes with so much clutter – we had to photograph all before removing for the photoshoot and then rearrange in the correct order.. In this industry an agent often becomes a therapist, friend, or pet sitter to sellers while buyers are walking around during viewings.

Exciting Trends in the Property industry

The 2026 Cape Town luxury property market continues to outperform the broader market, driven by limited supply, affluent demand and the scarcity of exceptional homes. In areas such as Constantia Upper and Bishopscourt, where average selling prices are around R26 million and R30 million respectively, buyers are increasingly prepared to compete for the right property.

In Constantia and Upper Constantia, I would describe the market as “low supply + affluent demand + lifestyle scarcity = continued pricing strength.”

The Southern Suburbs are increasingly establishing themselves as a luxury-market destination, with Constantia, Bishopscourt and Newlands attracting both local and international buyers. International purchasers remain important, supported by Cape Town’s lifestyle appeal, relative value compared with global luxury markets and favourable exchange rates. At the top end, off-market transactions are also becoming increasingly significant, particularly for properties above R20 million and R50 million, where both sellers and buyers value privacy and exclusivity.

Semigration continues to support demand, with affluent families relocating from Gauteng and elsewhere in South Africa in search of lifestyle, security, quality schools and a better overall quality of life.

Ultimately, buyers are not simply purchasing square metres. They are buying privacy, security, gardens, space, proximity to leading schools, wine estates, restaurants and outdoor living. In this market, a beautiful, correctly priced property can generate significant interest, while an overpriced home can quickly become stale stock.

Advice to Someone Starting Out in the Industry

Build relationships, not just a database. Luxury property is fundamentally a relationship business. Genuine connections and a strong referral network can ultimately be more valuable than advertising. Becoming the recognised expert in the area where you live is a significant advantage.

Never take a mandate at any price. An overpriced property can consume enormous amounts of time and damage your reputation. I would rather provide an honest valuation and potentially lose a mandate than promise a price I don’t believe the market will achieve. Credibility is far more valuable in the long term.

Find your point of difference. Become known for something. I am fortunate to sell in Upper Constantia, where I live, and across the Southern Suburbs, where my child goes to school. Knowing the streets, schools, community, restaurants and lifestyle — and understanding what makes one pocket more desirable than another — gives me a genuine local advantage. My background as an admitted attorney also brings a strong focus on detail, negotiation and commercial understanding to my service.

Protect your reputation. In luxury real estate, reputation travels quickly. Clients need to know that their property and personal affairs are safe with you. Integrity should never be compromised, and sometimes the right decision is to walk away from a transaction that doesn’t feel right.

Finally, don’t underestimate the first 12–24 months. The industry has natural ebbs and flows, and there can be long periods of hard work without immediate financial results. Success requires resilience, networking, strong negotiation skills, grit and the determination to keep going.

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