Container structures are increasingly being used as secondary dwellings, granny flats, or backyard rental units.
Image: Prominent Properties Sotheby's International Realty
Johannesburg’s property landscape evolution is seeing container homes emerging as a practical solution for those looking for ways to maximise space, accommodate family members, and generate rental income.
This trend is said to be particularly noticeable in areas such as Johannesburg South, where container structures are increasingly being used as secondary dwellings, granny flats, or backyard rental units.
Container homes present an attractive long-term investment opportunity, especially for budget-conscious buyers, due to their cost-efficiency, says Nadia Aucamp, broker/owner of RE/MAX All Stars.
“They offer affordability, quicker construction times, and potential sustainability benefits. Additionally, they can serve as rental units or supplementary dwellings, adding value to a property with multiple structures,” Aucamp said.
However, Aucamp notes that these homes are still seen primarily as supplementary, not primary, residences.
“In most markets, traditional brick-and-mortar homes retain stronger resale value. Container homes are often viewed as temporary or movable structures, which may impact appreciation over time.”
That said, growing acceptance and potential regulatory shifts could change this perception.
“As more municipalities begin formalising container housing regulations, and as public awareness grows, we could see improved resale values and broader market acceptance,” Aucamp adds.
While interest in container housing is growing in urban pockets like Johannesburg South and the inner city, areas such as Alberton and Germiston have yet to see widespread demand. This may be due to limited buyer awareness or a cautious approach from local authorities.
Aucamp cautions that regulatory clarity remains an obstacle. “While Johannesburg is starting to embrace alternative housing models, approval processes still vary between municipalities. Container homes must comply with the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, which includes zoning, structural safety, and fire compliance.”
Financial institutions also typically require full municipal approval before financing properties with container homes.
“Prospective buyers should ensure all municipal by-laws are followed, including obtaining approved building plans. This is especially important for securing financing and ensuring future resale value,” Aucamp emphasised.
The way South Africans view residential property has been slowly changing. According to Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, many people are starting to see their homes as not just a place to live, but also as a way to make money.
“Container homes offer an innovative response to changing housing needs, both for multi-generational living as well as for passive income streams. As regulation catches up with demand and market sentiment continues to evolve, we anticipate broader adoption and increased interest across the country," Goslett said
Last June, Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group said the use of innovative building materials in the construction industry has increased dramatically in recent years, incorporating age-old as well as modern methods, each with its own characteristics and unique appeal, and demonstrating noteworthy creativity in the pursuit of renewable, eco-friendly solutions.
“Meanwhile, another trend, using shipping containers to build homes and other structures, has in recent years caught on in a meaningful way. It is possible to have containers delivered to the site in a couple of months, complete with selected finishes and ready to move in, which means there’s little construction debris or inconvenience,” Golding said at the time.
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