Sustainable housing development is essential for addressing environmental challenges and ensuring future well-being. However, various barriers hinder progress. This paper examines current research on these barriers, identifies key trends, and suggests directions for future studies. The study uses a quantitative approach, distributing questionnaires to housing industry professionals in Gauteng and the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Descriptive analysis was conducted on 102 completed responses out of 150 distributed, resulting in a 68% response rate. A comprehensive literature review, coupled with an empirical questionnaire survey of 102 industry professionals in South Africa, identified fourteen key barriers. Significant impediments include a lack of awareness and information, incentives, education, and training. Three components from factor analysis of these barriers: knowledge, regulation and collaboration barriers. This research project advances our knowledge of sustainable housing development and offers insightful information to help shape and implement better policies and strategies that will make sustainable housing more accessible and affordable for everyone. Overcoming these barriers is essential for creating a more sustainable and equitable housing future in South Africa, where housing development can drive environmental preservation, social well-being, and economic growth. This research, based on both theoretical and quantitative data, identifies strategies to overcome these barriers, such as enhancing educational training, implementing supportive government policies, and developing innovative financing models in the context of South Africa.