Africa’s property managers show more commitment despite longer hours

The latest MRI Voice of the Property Manager report highlights a striking reality: African property managers are working longer hours than their European counterparts while showing the highest levels of job satisfaction and long-term commitment in the EMEA region.

More commitment despite working longer hours

African and Middle Eastern property professionals are putting in the time:

• 23% work more than 50 hours per week, compared to less than 3% in the UK
• Nearly half work full-time in the office, while remote work dominates elsewhere

And yet, they remain committed:

• 45% plan to stay in the sector long term, compared to 32% in the UK and just 19% in Europe

This loyalty speaks to the resilience and passion driving the African property sector forward.

Confidence in the future

Beyond commitment, African professionals are optimistic and ambitious:

• 13% are interested in starting their own property businesses – three times the rate of UK respondents
• Over a third believe AI can boost efficiency, although fewer understand its full decision-making potential

This entrepreneurial mindset presents a major opportunity to support innovation and growth across the continent.

Bridging the gaps

The report also reveals key areas where investment could make a significant impact:

• 69% agree technology reduces workload – but only 37% link AI with greater efficiency
• Just 19% have received compliance training in the past year, despite growing legal pressures
• A third of respondents want more support for mental health, with emotional demands and difficult tenant interactions cited as top stressors

The future of property management in Africa

Mark Fairweather, Managing Director of MRI Software Africa, highlights the importance of these findings.

“The Voice of the Property Manager survey paints a picture of a committed and resilient group of professionals who are ready to tackle the challenges ahead. While many are investing in new technology and training, there is still further opportunity for efficiency and optimisation, particularly in leveraging AI and ensuring better system integration.”

That opportunity is already taking shape – professionals are dedicated and driven to lead the sector into the future:

• Over a third of respondents plan to upgrade their systems in the next year
• Those who updated recently were twice as satisfied with their tech compared to those relying on outdated systems

Download the 2025 Voice of the Property Manager report here