What the unchanged SA prime interest rate means for homebuyers

Published September 2025

The Reserve Bank’s decision to keep the SA prime interest rate unchanged signals a continued focus on bringing inflation closer to its 3% target. While another repo rate cut would have been welcome, this pause shows the Bank’s commitment to long-term economic stability.

What does this mean for homeowners?

For homeowners and prospective buyers, holding the SA prime interest rate steady brings both restraint and opportunity. In the short term, it may limit affordability slightly, but it also sets the stage for renewed momentum in the property market once the next cycle of rate cuts begins – potentially in the months ahead.

The property market is already showing resilience

The impact of previous rate cuts is clear. Since September last year, five repo rate cuts have helped stabilise market conditions. BetterBond’s latest data shows:

Why this matters for buyers and investors

A stable repo rate helps create a more predictable environment for both buyers and investors. With property prices stabilising and deposit requirements becoming more accessible, more South Africans could find themselves able to enter the housing market. At the same time, investors can see the Reserve Bank’s clear commitment to stability and long-term growth.