In a move set to redefine South Africa’s luxury real estate landscape, Elizabeth McKenzie, the highly acclaimed Director of Fine & Country Midrand and Garden Route, has announced the rebranding of her operations to By Design Homes South Africa.

After nearly 15 years leading one of South Africa’s most successful luxury real estate offices, Elizabeth is taking a bold step by launching the premium international brand By Design Homes South Africa in partnership with UK Founder and CEO David Lindley, an association built over time when Lindley acted as CEO, Fine & Country UK.

Elizabeth’s Midrand and Garden Route offices have become synonymous with premium service, market leadership, and excellence, earning prestigious accolades such as Best Real Estate Agency Single Office South Africa, Best Real Estate Agency Single Office Africa, and Winner in the International Property Awards (2021–2022 and 2023–2024).

“I’ve taken the best of what has worked in our market and eliminated the outdated and bureaucratic,” says Elizabeth. “Our new model is built for the modern luxury agent—those with deep expertise, powerful networks, and a clear vision. At By Design, these agents are placed where they belong: at the forefront of their own business. We have adopted the human approach to innovation for these skilled individuals to stay ahead.”

Elizabeth’s decision to transition from the F&C brand follows a period of strategic reflection and business evolution, reinforced by a favourable legal outcome that affirmed her company’s position.

This rebrand is more than a name change—it underscores Elizabeth’s relentless commitment to protecting her business and its legacy. The outcome is transformative: a new international brand and a national model that empowers elite agents with autonomy, enabling them to deliver a real estate service as unique as their clients’ homes.

By Design offers agents in the premium and luxury market an unprecedented platform:

• Full brand ownership and international collaboration
• Strategic marketing support and operational infrastructure
• Alignment with the By Design UK brand, known for its agent-first model and high-performance culture

“We’re not just offering a brand—we’re building a network of elite professionals who think like business owners,” says Lindley. “Elizabeth’s move is a major step forward for South African real estate. She brings excellence, experience, and vision to a model that empowers agents to lead.” “There is no one more capable of leading this vision in South Africa than Elizabeth,” Lindley adds.

About By Design Homes South Africa

By Design is a premium real estate model originating in the UK and now expanding into South Africa. The brand offers top-tier agents the opportunity to build their own businesses with global support, proven systems, personal ownership, modern branding, and high-impact marketing—all without the constraints of traditional franchises.

Media Contact:
Elizabeth McKenzie
Elizabeth.McKenzie@bydesignhomes.com
+27 (0)71 612 2399 +27(0)11 468 1335