An exploratory analysis of the impact of leadership on project outcomes in the real estate development industry: the case of the African sub-region

This research investigates leadership styles within the African real estate development sector—specifically transformational, transactional, laissez-faire, democratic, and selling—and their impact on project outcomes and challenges. Utilising Saunders' Onion model, the study adopts an interpretivist philosophy and a qualitative approach, systematically reviewing literature and applying a six-step thematic analysis to rigorously selected studies. The findings indicate that these leadership styles notably influence team cohesion, customer satisfaction, problem resolution, and the timely completion of projects within budget constraints. Significant challenges include regulatory issues, gender bias, resource shortages, technological and training gaps, and adherence to quality standards. The study emphasises the need for leaders to engage with policymakers to drive reforms that enhance leadership effectiveness in the sector. It also underscores the necessity for robust leadership frameworks to navigate these challenges, offering sector-specific insights to inform policy and practice reforms in the African real estate landscape.