Cape Town is where nature meets high society, a city that seamlessly blends mountain views with Michelin-star meals, and pristine beaches with high-end boutiques.
The Atlantic Seaboard, with its dramatic coastline, cosmopolitan energy, and first-world infrastructure, has become one of the most sought-after property markets in the world. Roads, hospitals, food, and financial systems all operate at a world-class level, making it an easy choice for affluent buyers looking for a slice of paradise. It’s a rare gem – an African city with a luxury real estate market that rivals the best in the world.
Tyson Properties Double Diamonds, Michael Bester and James Carney’s combined 24-year journey in the real estate industry has given them a front-row seat to the evolution of Cape Town’s luxury market. And after years in the game, they have seen it all. From homes with garages big enough to house 22 supercars to properties with private vineyards. The Atlantic Seaboard is their playground, and they know every inch of it. “It’s like the French Riviera on a smaller scale,” says Michael Bester, and honestly, he’s not wrong. The blend of national and international buyers in Clifton, Bantry Bay, and Fresnaye is proof that Cape Town is where the elite come to play. The city is buzzing, the luxury is tangible, and the sunsets? Well, let’s just say they’re expensive.
The golden hour in Cape Town isn’t just a moment – it’s a market driver. A prime sunset view doesn’t just add to a home’s aesthetic, it adds to its value. “How do you even put a price on that?” Michael asks. The answer? Buyers do, and they pay top dollar for it. In fact, some of the most decisive deals Michael and James have closed were because of that very view. And on the flip side? Buyers have walked away from homes simply because they lacked one.
But a view isn’t just another feature, it’s the feature. You can install a home cinema or a wine cellar, but you can’t install a mountain backdrop melting into the Atlantic. “People are willing to pay top dollar for location and a view,” James states. The reality is that homes with breathtaking views don’t just hold their value, they appreciate faster than those without. A home perched on the cliffs of Clifton, overlooking the endless blue ocean, is more than just a home – it’s a statement, a status symbol, and an investment.
Yet, despite the luxury, the real estate grind is very real. “Nothing comes easy,” James points out. The world sees the fancy suits, the flashy videos, and the five-star listings, but the behind-the-scenes reality? Not always glamorous. “Being a real estate agent isn’t just about wearing a nice suit, having a really nice car, and an Instagram account with lots of followers – that is no guarantee for success,” Michael adds.
What does guarantee success? Hard work, determination, and the ability to build genuine relationships. “It’s important to look after your clients,” James says. Real estate, especially at this level, is about playing the long game. The best agents don’t just make a sale, they make a connection. When a client is ready to buy or sell again, they know exactly who to call. “There’s no better advertisement than word of mouth,” James emphasizes. And in this business, reputation is everything. A referral from a happy client is worth more than any marketing budget.
One of the biggest misconceptions about being a luxury real estate agent is that it’s all about glitz and glamour. The reality? It’s about showing up, putting in the work, and getting through the hard stuff. “You have to be sincere,” Michael says. Sincere in helping a seller achieve their goals and sincere in finding a buyer their dream home. Sincerity takes effort. High-net-worth individuals don’t just want a deal, they want trust, discretion, and an agent who genuinely cares about their needs.
And if you think this is a solo sport, think again. “This is a team-oriented career,” James says. Thriving in real estate, especially in a high-stakes market like the Atlantic Seaboard, requires collaboration. “If you enjoy the camaraderie of a team, then you will embrace this career,” Michael adds. And if not? It might be a frustrating road. The best agents understand that working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another is key to long-term success.
For those looking to break into the world of luxury real estate, patience is non-negotiable. “You can’t do it in a week, or six months, or even a year, it takes consistent time and patience,” Michael advises. The reality is, every day is different. Every home, every client, every negotiation, it’s all a new experience. “It’s never boring,” Michael says with a grin. There’s an adrenaline rush that comes with sealing a high-stakes deal, but it’s the years of groundwork and relationship-building that make it possible.
Taking calculated risks is also part of the game. “A calculated chance might just pay off,” Michael says. But getting ahead of yourself? That’s dangerous territory. “Don’t get too full of yourself,” he warns. Young agents often make the mistake of thinking they’re the most important part of a deal. “The buyer and the seller – they’re the deal. As an agent, you’re there to unite it,” James reminds us. An agent is the bridge between two parties, and the best ones know how to balance confidence with humility. The most successful agents understand that their role is to facilitate, not dominate. Ego can be a deal-breaker in this business. The moment an agent starts seeing themselves as bigger than the transaction itself, they lose sight of what truly matters – bringing two parties together in a seamless, successful deal. Trust is earned through humility, professionalism, and the ability to put the client’s needs ahead of personal recognition.
Cape Town has been called many things, but James sums it up best: “It’s like the Monaco of Africa – just with higher tax.” And while the market is competitive, and the work isn’t always easy, both Michael and James feel nothing but gratitude for the opportunity to work in one of the most exclusive property markets in the world.
“We definitely don’t take it lightly,” Michael says. And honestly? With views like these, who would?
This article was proudly sponsored by Abrahams & Gross Attorneys.
