35% of Gen Z Homebuyers Are Single Women — Here's Why an Estate Plan Should Come With the Keys

Our take

While this research is US-based, the underlying pattern — single women buying property independently and outpacing single male buyers — is a trend gaining traction in South Africa too, particularly among urban professionals in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Gqeberha. For South African single homeowners, the estate planning gap is equally real and arguably more consequential. Without a valid will, the Intestate Succession Act determines who inherits your property, which may not reflect your wishes at all. Conveyancing attorneys here will tell you that transferring a deceased estate through the Master of the High Court is a slow, expensive process — a living trust or carefully drafted will can spare your loved ones significant stress. Single buyers should also consider bond protection insurance and income protection cover, since there is no partner's salary as a safety net if illness or injury strikes. If you have recently bought your first home solo, speak to an estate planning attorney and ensure your will, financial power of attorney, and life cover are all updated to reflect your new asset. Homeownership is a wealth-building milestone — protect it properly from day one.