Helena Fortes McKay

I didn’t take a conventional path into real estate, and I believe that journey has shaped the way I work today.
I was born in Lourenço Marques, Mozambique, and spent my early years moving between countries, living in Portugal before settling in South Africa just in time for my first day of school. Arriving somewhere unfamiliar and learning to make it feel like home was an early lesson that has stayed with me, and it continues to influence how I support my clients.
Before entering Cape Town’s property market, I explored a variety of experiences that helped me grow both personally and professionally. I designed and supplied clothing to local boutiques, worked at Gatwick Airport in the UK, spent three years teaching English in Taiwan, and travelled extensively before returning to Cape Town. There, I owned and ran my own hair salon, Nova Vida Hair, for several years. Each of these chapters taught me something valuable, attention to detail, adaptability, resilience, and how to connect with people from all walks of life. When I transitioned into real estate nearly a decade ago, I carried those lessons with me.
Today, I focus on residential sales and rentals across Cape Town. I value building lasting relationships with my clients, many of whom return or stay in touch over time. Having experienced firsthand what it means to start fresh in a new place, I understand how important it is to find the right space to call home. Whether you are buying, selling, or looking to rent, I aim to approach your move with care, thoughtfulness, and a genuine commitment to your needs.