Early-2010 property forecasts hold true
It certainly is interesting to see that many of the property predictions made at the beginning of 2010 have held true as the year unfolds.
8 September 2010Read More .....
Where to find Karoo property bargains
To find bargain semi- or un-restored Karoo heritage properties one may have to delve further into the Karoo where many towns wait to be “discovered”.
8 September 2010Read More .....
How to scrutinise an estate agent
In the current real estate market, home sellers need to be sure that their estate agent has real marketing muscle – and is committed to using it.
8 September 2010Read More .....
Tydsberekening sleutel tot beleggings in huismark
Johannesburg. - ’n Belegging in die huismark bly ’n uitstekende langtermyn-belegging mits beleggers hul tydsberekening regkry.
8 September 2010Read More .....
Commuters boost Potch market
Commuters who work in central Johannesburg and the Sandton office node are contributing to a stable property market in the university town of Potchefstroom.
8 September 2010Read More .....
UFS getting more student housing
The property developer Stockbell will start to build a student development at the end of the year to the value of R250m on the doorstep of the University of the Free State.
6 September 2010Read More .....
Gauteng property market picks up
Gauteng is seeing increased residential sales in 2010 with cash and investment buying growing strongly.
7 September 2010Read More .....
HNWIs returning to buy-to-let market
The lack of certainty and the volatility of the global economy are resulting in High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI’s) looking at buy-to-rent properties with a great deal more enthusiasm.
3 September 2010Read More .....
Cheap is 'in' with property
It appears that affordability issues are increasingly forcing South Africans to forego large, luxury homes in lieu of cheaper, smaller abodes.
3 September 2010Read More .....
Chop power costs with heat pumps
Everyone knows that the geyser is the biggest energy-glutton in the house, gobbling up 30% to 50% of the monthly electricity usage all by itself.
6 September 2010Read More .....
Financial Planners and Brokers
Open letter to Financial Planners and Brokers
6 September 2010Read More .....
Global is local with property
The 2010 Emerging Trends in Real Estate report shows just how globalised the modern property market has become.
2 September 2010Read More .....
What is the price of a garage?
A garage sale just got a whole new meaning.
2 September 2010Read More .....
Know your market before setting a price
You may know in your own mind when you decide to sell your home, but do you know your own market?
2 September 2010Read More .....
Sectional title Q & A
Our sectional title legal expert, Jennifer Paddock, is back with some adept answers for some common but thorny questions. So read, learn, enjoy and empower yourself!
2 September 2010Read More .....
Property finance: NCA not only problem
The National Credit Act (NCA) has put a dampener on property buying and selling, but it is only one part of the bigger property financing problem.
2 September 2010Read More .....
Lightstone reveals SA's top 10 suburbs by value
Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard dominates the 2010 list with no less than three areas.
2 September 2010Read More .....
Huispryse daal dalk volgende jaar, wys indeks
Johannesburg. - Die mini-lopie in huispryse is besig om vroeër as wat verwag is tot ’n einde te kom en huispryse kan volgende jaar weer begin daal.
2 September 2010Read More .....
Cash buying: Why and how
Two characteristics of the current property market – the difficulty in obtaining finance and the challenges of selling a property quickly – means that cash is still king when it comes to property sales.
1 September 2010Read More .....
Opportunities abound in local property market
The property market is still good for bargain hunters, says Anthony Miller of Lightstone.
1 September 2010Read More .....
Verbandvoorskotte groei met net 4,5%
Johannesburg. - Die groei in huishoudings se verbandvoorskotte in Julie was niks om oor te kraai nie.
2 September 2010Read More .....
Tips to selling your home
Ensure that your home is in tip top condition before you allow buyers to view it.
31 August 2010Read More .....
Bellville short of student accommodation
Although the recent growth in student numbers at the University of the Western Cape, along with the recent launching of its multi million rand Life Sciences building, has created a need for student housing and property development, there continues to rem
31 August 2010Read More .....
Rental demand in 2010 full of contrasts
For many Cape Town letting agents the first three months of this year were some of the busiest they have ever experienced.
31 August 2010Read More .....
Full rental service is the best
Although there are two clearly defined types of rental property management, those working this field find that property owners often do not fully understand the differences between them.
30 August 2010Read More .....
Maintain rental properties well
With the recession only partially behind us and with incomes often no longer rising in line with inflation (or any recognised growth strategy) it can be tempting to landlords to skimp on maintenance – but this is always “fatal” to the long-term value of
30 August 2010Read More .....
Advice to buyers, sellers of properties
Make sure terms and conditions do not delay transfer.
30 August 2010Read More .....
A Senior Moment and Important Announcements
This contribution was send to us by one of our Platinum members, Jeremy Everitt. I enjoyed it a lot and I think you will too.
31 August 2010Read More .....
The Revolutionary Catechism of 1869
The Duties of the Revolutionary toward Himself
30 August 2010Read More .....
New or pre-loved homes: Which is best?
Homebuyers are counting their pennies as they struggle to find affordable properties in the current difficult economic climate, and that raises the question of which type of property – pre-owned or newly-built – offers the best value.
27 August 2010Read More .....
Young people should grow portfolio
South Africa’s lifestyle, financial and personal finance media have in recent months been hammering home the message that a vast majority of middle class people still come to retirement age with insufficient resources.
27 August 2010Read More .....
How to nominate and elect trustees
Prescribed management rule (“PMR”) 7 requires nominations by owners for the election of trustees at any annual general meeting (“AGM”) to be given in writing, accompanied by the written consent of the person being nominated at least 48 hours before the m
30 August 2010Read More .....
This is how exes take revenge
Before you read today’s disturbing article about a bad ex-husband, allow me to remind you:
26 August 2010Read More .....
Loads of properties soon under gavel
A total of 69 homes in various Cape Town locations will be going on auction on Saturday 28 August 2010.
26 August 2010Read More .....
Constantia market on good recovery path
In what could be interpreted as a positive sign for almost all high-end properties in Cape Town, Constantia seems to be emerging strongly from the recession in a big way judging by its year-on-year (y/y) sales figures.
26 August 2010Read More .....
Protect property when getting married
When it comes to property, it pays to do proper estate planning and draw up the right agreements when you get married.
26 August 2010Read More .....
Internet "tools" and your property
Use them to make you a more astute buyer.
24 August 2010Read More .....
It costs money to make money
Money Magnet In 2005 I bought a bachelor unit off plan in Grosvenor Place on the corner of Grosvenor Street and Church Street in Pretoria. It is opposite the Urology Hospital. It is a superb location with my tenants, the hospital staff, only having to
24 August 2010Read More .....
Buying off-plan has pitfalls
Although buying off-plan has the big benefit of no transfer costs, it also holds some pitfalls of which buyers need to be aware.
25 August 2010Read More .....
Homeownership more than just nest egg
Even though the economic benefits of property are invariably and almost exclusively extolled, other “soft” advantages play an equally vital role in building families up.
25 August 2010Read More .....
Buyers + sellers: Get price right
The one factor buyers and sellers always have to keep in mind when entering into a property deal is the price.
25 August 2010Read More .....
How to pay bond off faster
Many consumers aren’t aware that even a small additional payment into their home loan account every month can make a big difference.
23 August 2010Read More .....
Property contracts: Change requirements
As with most virtually every other legal document, changes to property transactions must be signed by both parties in order to keep it valid.
23 August 2010Read More .....
The seven top traits of successful agents
What to look for when choosing a realtor.
20 August 2010Read More .....
Steeds goeie tyd vir huiskoop
Johannesburg. - Die herstel in die huismark wat in die tweede helfte van verlede jaar begin het, duur voort.
20 August 2010Read More .....
The fat rolling masses
I see on TV how masses of mostly fat and overweight people in red t-shirts are jumping around while shouting insults at the government. The very same government they elected.
23 August 2010Read More .....
Average deposit for home now R165k
Banks may well have started opening their mortgage lending taps again but the average homebuyer still needs to fork out a cash deposit of close to 20% of the property’s purchase price.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Registered Financial Fraud Providers
The following disturbing article was shared with us by Abrie Jurgens.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Property sellers drop asking prices
Most property sellers have to drop their asking prices to achieve a sale, a property group said on Tuesday.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Property buyers use deposit guarantees
Property investors are making use of deposit guarantees as an alternative to cash deposits.
19 August 2010Read More .....
When should you start saving for your first property?
Saving up a deposit for your first property brings great financial rewards.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Six reasons not to buy property
...and why none of them hold much water.
19 August 2010Read More .....
ooba: Huispryse steeds op herstelpad
Johannesburg. – Die herstel in die huismark, wat in die tweede helfte van 2009 begin het, het voortgeduur, volgens ooba.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Pta market doing well, but near to peak
Estate agents in Tshwane (Pretoria and surrounds) are slightly more optimistic about their property market than other major metros, but nevertheless start to hint at a “peaking” mini-cycle in the residential market.
17 August 2010Read More .....
A guide for investing in property
Collin Wright reckons listed property could offer a defensive investment position in 2010.
17 August 2010Read More .....
Plan to get the most out of ‘downsizing'
One of the most important elements of that planning should be to pay off debts as early as possible.
17 August 2010Read More .....
House prices, affordability recovering
Although the growth in SA house prices is not stellar, it has exhibited some recovery signs since 2009 and affordability is on a good path again.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Luukse huise kos ál minder
Johannesburg. - Die luukse segment van die huismark sit steeds vasgevang in die nasleep van die ekonomiese afswaai wat in 2008 begin het.
19 August 2010Read More .....
Top five decor tips for buying-to-rent
Caroline Coates reckons choosing how to decorate your apartment is critical.
16 August 2010Read More .....
Put property taxes to work in housing
Although the new mortgage guarantee fund introduced by the Department of Human Settlement is to be welcomed, more needs to be done to help lower-income families achieve home ownership.
16 August 2010Read More .....
Sanlam, Absa conclude home loans deal
Financial services groups Sanlam (SLM) and Absa (ASA) on Wednesday announced the conclusion of a transaction in terms of which Absa will acquire a 100% shareholding in Sanlam Home Loans.
12 August 2010Read More .....
Coastal properties: A market overview
Everybody wants a huisie by die see that they can tootle off to in December or even over long weekends and regard as an investment that will save and make them money in the long-run.
12 August 2010Read More .....
‘Too good’ bonds could be a scam
With many bond applicants held back by the strict National Credit Act (NCA) rulings, some will start looking for more easily accessed finance.
13 August 2010Read More .....
Why deposit is essential
Raising a deposit can be the biggest barrier to owning a home because without “the cash in hand” to show financial ability and intent to conclude the deal, many potential buyers are quite simply out of the running.
13 August 2010Read More .....
Sectional title owners: What you should know
Those who don’t pay levies and other amounts on time are responsible for the legal costs of recovery and the interest.
11 August 2010Read More .....
Woodstock's revival an investment opportunity?
Is it finally living up to its potential?
11 August 2010Read More .....
Buyers should prepare for tougher rates
Even “low-risk” bondholders who before the economic downturn were given bonds at anything up to 2% below prime have not realised that this is highly unlikely in today’s credit market.
12 August 2010Read More .....
Rental demand high in new growth nodes
For developers and investors prepared to look beyond the big cities and popular tourist spots, there are some excellent opportunities available in residential rental property.
12 August 2010Read More .....
Gesoek: Bekostigbare huise
Johannesburg. – Die tekort aan bekostigbare huise is ’n groot struikelblok vir volgehoue vraag in die huismark, en kan lei tot die verlangsaming van huisprysgroei later in die jaar, het Harcourts Africa Woensdag gesê.
12 August 2010Read More .....
R1bn guarantee fund ‘only a theory’
The R1bn guarantee fund for affordable homes which was announced by President Jacob Zuma in his State of the Nation address earlier this year, “only exists in theory”.
12 August 2010Read More .....
SA's fastest rising house price cities
Plus the most lucrative sector remains the mid and affordable bands.
10 August 2010Read More .....
Huispryse styg stadiger
Johannesburg. – Die waarde van huise in die middel segment van die Suid-Afrikaanse huismark het in Julie 2010 op ’n jaargrondslag aangehou styg, maar teen ’n stadiger koers, het Absa se nuutste huisprysindeks Dinsdag gewys.
10 August 2010Read More .....
Lessons from the fairer – and better – investors
Today I am going to lift the exclusivity veil a little and in light of Women’s Month I am going to share this week’s exclusive Platinum Club article with all my female readers. I am sure our Platinum Members will not blame me for this.
11 August 2010Read More .....
Gauteng, WC are relocation hotspots
Gauteng and the Western Cape have been attracting the most semi-grants in SA over the last decade and economic opportunities are evidently the biggest drawcard.
11 August 2010Read More .....
Sect. title: When votes are not allowed
The right to vote is one of the normal consequences of membership of an association.
6 August 2010Read More .....
Century City residential sales up 150%
A telltale sign that the residential property market has finally turned is the fact that sales at the plush Century City are up a staggering 150% for the year to end-June.
6 August 2010Read More .....
The Agent’s Way is Not the Treoc Way
After the article “Nightmare tenants in a nightmare area”, I received a few emails from people who’d attended the Treoc seminars and had still bought property in the wrong areas. This article is for you.
6 August 2010Read More .....
Real prices will still drop
Real prices will, despite the current robust recovery in nominal house prices, still be heading south in the medium term, says Erwin Rode, property valuer and property economist of Rode & Associates.
10 August 2010Read More .....
Century City residential sales up 150%
A telltale sign that the residential property market has finally turned is the fact that sales at the plush Century City are up a staggering 150% for the year to end-June.
10 August 2010Read More .....
Affordable housing for Eerste River
A R170-million housing project that aims to bring the GASH (Good Address Small Home) concept to the affordable housing market in Eerste River is soon to be launched, with the construction of three apartment complexes and one mixed-use complex in a secure
6 August 2010Read More .....
Save, save, save for deposit!
Saving up a deposit for your first property brings great financial rewards.
5 August 2010Read More .....
What are costs of not paying levies?
Although it is sometimes alleged that the trustees of sectional title schemes lack the power to enforce the Sectional Title Act, this is far from being the case.
5 August 2010Read More .....
Buy-to-let: Cheaper is better
Those buy-to-let investors targeting the lower end of the sectional title segment are likely to reap the greatest benefits.
5 August 2010Read More .....
Rentals: Know the legalities
The rental market is a pivotal part of the residential property industry and even more so when affordability is under pressure.
3 August 2010Read More .....
Herstel in huismark toon momentum
Johannesburg. – Die herstel in die eiendomsmark is besig om momentum te kry, het Standard Bank Dinsdag gesê by die bekendmaking van sy eiendomsverslag vir Julie.
3 August 2010Read More .....
Confidence sees market improving
July marks the first month of real growth in the sector.
5 August 2010Read More .....
Take small steps to home ownership
First-time buyers find it increasingly difficult to buy a house, but small steps from sectional title and then to a house will make this process a lot easier.
3 August 2010Read More .....
Interpret property info the right way
It seems like the devil is often in the detail with information about the residential property market.
3 August 2010Read More .....
Bryanston clusters seeing high demand
Cluster homes are finding good favour among buyers in the northern Johannesburg suburb of Bryanston as security requirements become increasingly important.
30 July 2010Read More .....
Regulator takes action against suspect home loan scheme
Ian McCabe and his lawyer Fritz Sonnenberg told to refund clients.
2 August 2010Read More .....
CT security village launched
A small security village has been launched on Cape Town’s Western Seaboard to the entry-level market and occupation is anticipated by February 2011.
27 July 2010Read More .....
Scenic Mount Sheba Game reserve to fall under the hammer
Has four main houses, four large cottages, a full gym with sauna, a small dairy, workshops, cold rooms, large farm sheds and buffalo breeding pens.
28 July 2010Read More .....
Huurders van huise en woonstelle betaal beter
Kaapstad. - Meer woonstel- en huishuurders het in die tweede kwartaal van vanjaar hul huurgeld betyds betaal as in die eerste kwartaal.
26 July 2010Read More .....
Huurders betaal beter
Kaapstad. - Meer woonstel- en huishuurders het in die tweede kwartaal van vanjaar hul huurgeld betyds betaal as in die eerste kwartaal.
27 July 2010Read More .....
Who is in a better position?
Bill Rawson asks who fares better residential or commercial and industrial investors.
23 July 2010Read More .....
Residential investments trump commercial
A fundamental fact about the property market has become clear in the current near-recessionary scenario: In tough times the residential investor is often in a far better position than the owner of commercial or industrial property.
26 July 2010Read More .....
Don’t ever take sides with anyone against the family
Disloyalty is a character flaw
27 July 2010Read More .....
New product to insure unpaid levies
A new insurance policy will soon be launched and can do away with unpaid levy problems.
22 July 2010Read More .....
Why rate cut would have helped market
Another interest rate reduction would have provided a much-needed “shot in the arm” for the housing market and create further positive sentiment after the Soccer World Cup.
22 July 2010Read More .....
Beware sect. title building penalties
Read your Home Owners Association (HOA) constitution carefully before buying into a sectional title estate.
23 July 2010Read More .....
7 of 10 most active areas in Gauteng
Eight out of the 10 most active areas in the country in terms of property transfers are situated in Gauteng, according to a new survey.
23 July 2010Read More .....
Interest rates unchanged after MPC meeting
The repo rate remains unchanged at 6,5%.
23 July 2010Read More .....
Buyers empowered by new Act
The Consumer Protection Act (CPA), due to take effect on 25 October this year, will mainly force agents to ensure property sellers and buyers understand the wording and legal effect of all contracts they enter into.
21 July 2010Read More .....
Why waiting to sell won’t help you
Potential sellers who are holding out for much better prices, will eventually be disappointed for two reasons.
21 July 2010Read More .....
Online property info can overwhelm
Online information about properties is becoming evermore essential in the digital and knowledge age, but its use also comes with a caveat.
21 July 2010Read More .....
Demystifying capital expenditure in BCs
The term capital in accounting terminology usually refers to expenditure which relates to purchasing or investing in property or equipment which is then used in the production of income, in other words, to make money.
19 July 2010Read More .....
Is virtual property staging ethical?
Photos of properties on sale are being altered or enhanced is this ethical, asks Berry Everitt?
19 July 2010Read More .....
Buyers: Don't ignore defects
Martin Schultheiss reckons you should make rectifying them a condition of sale.
19 July 2010Read More .....
Home repos falling; small part of total
The amount of houses that banks have had to repossess due to their owners defaulting on loans, has dropped.
20 July 2010Read More .....
Snowy mountains a property drawcard
SA has an abundance of sun, but with the country in the winter grip at the moment, mountain getaways and small farms above 3,500 feet are finding good favour among buyers looking for a supreme lifestyle and getaway property.
20 July 2010Read More .....
Studenteverblyf dien sokker
Studenteverblyf in Braamfontein het tydens die Wêreldbeker-sokkertoernooi blyplek aan meer as 300 buitelandse besoekers in die uitsaaibedryf gegee.
16 July 2010Read More .....
These Centurion properties offer value
Properties in Centurion offered in terms of various bank quick sales programmes, where owners under financial pressure are assisted to sell before the properties are attached, are finding ready buyers.
19 July 2010Read More .....
Hawks arrest two in sub-6% home loan scheme
Despite the protestations of Seeff licensee Sonnenberg, Arctogen appears fishy.
19 July 2010Read More .....
Time to invest in property
Buy-to-rent investors can use the accumulated equity in their existing bonds - but beware of the pitfalls.
16 July 2010Read More .....
More pay to stay on KZN North Coast
The KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, and Ballito and Umhlanga in particular, is seeing a growing number of buyers, especially from Gauteng, looking to become permanent residents whilst investors are returning to these areas.
14 July 2010Read More .....
How to choose your rental agency
Word of mouth should be your first indication says Dexter Leite.
14 July 2010Read More .....
Tips to keeping your tenants
Marc Edwards looks at what commercial and retail owners should be doing.
16 July 2010Read More .....
‘Voetstoots' vs home inspection
Jan Davel looks at why home inspection might be a better solution for SA.
13 July 2010Read More .....
Estate agents: Who do they work for?
Who do realtors really work for, the seller, the buyer or themselves?
13 July 2010Read More .....
CT apartment complex to be auctioned
A four-unit apartment block in Cape Town Vredehoek will go on auction on Wednesday 21 July.
12 July 2010Read More .....
‘Cape Town is coming of age’
The urban regeneration that has been talked about in recent years is gathering momentum as residential properties in Cape Town’s CBD are being snapped up at top dollar, with some apartments being sold for more than R9m.
13 July 2010Read More .....
Check agent’s sales agreement
A seller should always ask for a copy of the estate agent’s standard sale agreement as several problems may arise from it.
9 July 2010Read More .....
How to maintain distant property
The age-old Afrikaans adage “ver van jou goed, na aan jou skade” (far from your possessions, close to your damage) holds some venerable wisdom for property owners, but technology could change that.
8 July 2010Read More .....
Buyers want security in Pta East
The sought after eastern suburbs of Pretoria are seeing an increasing number of buyers looking for estate properties with super tight security and the money to pay for it seems to be no object.
8 July 2010Read More .....
House price growth showing early signs of nearing a peak
Latest trends in house prices.
8 July 2010Read More .....
Interest rates to remain steady - Seef Chairman
Also believes it will remain unchanged for most of the remainder of the year.
8 July 2010Read More .....
Varied buyers and sales in Strand
The buyer profile in the Strand near Cape Town is just as varied as the price ranges of the properties being sold.
8 July 2010Read More .....
Secrets of a successful estate agent
Dieter Deppisch argues it comes down to hard work and honesty.
7 July 2010Read More .....
What should I upgrade?
It is by now common knowledge that spending too much on your house’s upgrades can lead to overcapitalisation, which will result in you not fully recouping the costs of your outlay when you sell.
6 July 2010Read More .....
Benoni has shorter selling times
Property activity in the East Rand town of Benoni is currently being bolstered by short selling times and a big need for value-for-money properties.
6 July 2010Read More .....
Agents must protect buyers and sellers
Estate agents have a moral and legal duty to protect the interests of property buyers as well as sellers.
6 July 2010Read More .....
'No-frills' recovery for prop market
“No-frills” might signal inertia and disappointment to any recovering business sector that’s taken hard economic knocks, but for the property industry it might just be the right remedy for now.
5 July 2010Read More .....
Sub-6% home loans are real – boss, lawyer
But don’t pay your deposit before funding and regulatory issues are resolved.
5 July 2010Read More .....
Bank profits could affect lend criteria
The stage could soon be reached at which share analysts and financial advisors start querying at what level bank dividends will be paid in the coming year.
6 July 2010Read More .....
Downsizing driving sales in Toti
Downsizing seems to be the main reason for people selling in Amanzimtoti on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
2 July 2010Read More .....
Levies: Body corporate's pet hate
Michael Bauer looks at how to avoid raising levies.
2 July 2010Read More .....
Any season is good for selling, buying
If you are thinking of selling your home, it will interest you to know that demand does tend to vary from month to month and from season to season.
1 July 2010Read More .....
‘Give me back my house!’
Homebuyers are sometimes overcome by the enormity of their new financial commitments and try to cancel the deal – but sellers may also succumb to deep feelings of remorse once the contracts are signed.
1 July 2010Read More .....
Buying off-plan? Heed this advice
If you’re a homebuyer purchasing “off plan” – or in advance of your home actually being built – you will most likely have more money issues to deal with than those purchasing a pre-owned property.
1 July 2010Read More .....
27% of SA feel only 100% bonds are fair
More than a quarter of South Africans polled in a survey commissioned by ooba, a bond origination company, do not feel that it is reasonable to have to put a deposit down when buying a home, the company said on Tuesday.
30 June 2010Read More .....
Buy-to-let flourishing in Brits
In contrast to many areas in the country where the buy-to-let market is in the doldrums, this market is flourishing in the Northwest town of Brits.
30 June 2010Read More .....
Historic Cape lodge on market
A historic boutique lodge situated in the Western Cape of Montagu is to be sold lock, stock and barrel for R7,5m.
30 June 2010Read More .....
Start saving now if you want a home
It might not be easy, but it’s time for prospective homebuyers to start saving for a really sizeable deposit.
29 June 2010Read More .....
How to increase your rentals
The strict criteria of the National Credit Act (NCA) and increasing property prices are forcing South Africans to abandon temporarily any hope of becoming homeowners and making them tenants for longer than they anticipated two or three years ago.
29 June 2010Read More .....
Brits property market booming
Amelda Smit reckons there are good returns on rental property thanks to strong demand among mine contractors.
29 June 2010Read More .....
Deposito vir huis is 'onredelik'
Johannesburg. – Meer as ’n kwart van die Suid-Afrikaners wat aan ’n peiling deelgeneem het, dink dit is onaanvaarbaar om ’n deposito te betaal met die koop van ’n huis, het ’n peiling van ooba Dinsdag gewys.
29 June 2010Read More .....
Don’t lose by fixing rate
With interest rates at historic lows, many homeowners are contemplating whether or not to fix their bond rates.
30 June 2010Read More .....
What are your levies used for?
Levies cover the common property costs, but what does this actually entail and what are the ramifications of non-payment?
29 June 2010Read More .....
Create enormous wealth and still go to heaven
Make money with property, using other people’s money
28 June 2010Read More .....
Numbers prove Jo’burg market recovery
A definite improvement in the Johannesburg residential property market is evident in the latest results posted by the six Sotheby’s International Realty offices operating across the city.
28 June 2010Read More .....
Buying like Apes
Some people buy houses, shares, endowment policies and pension plans without doing any calculations. The skill of writing and calculating is around for thousands of years, but still some people do it like apes.
24 June 2010Read More .....
Pta’s Mooikloof caters for all
The sought-after Mooikloof area in the east of Pretoria is thought to be reserved for the very well-heeled.
24 June 2010Read More .....
Agterstallige klaringsertifikate al by 45 000
Johannesburg. - Die agterstallige munisipale klaringsertifikate het tot byna 45 000 opgeskiet weens die stadsraad van Johannesburg se onvermoë om dié sertifikate te verwerk, reken eiendomsrolspelers.
24 June 2010Read More .....
These buyers making headway in Bloem
Previously disadvantaged buyers now comprise between 55% and 60% of all price categories in Bloemfontein.
25 June 2010Read More .....
Retire villages: Why are they popular?
More and more South Africans are investing in retirement developments, and for good reason.
25 June 2010Read More .....
The recovery continues, but. . .
The recovery in the housing market continues.
24 June 2010Read More .....
What’s involved when buying home?
Many South African first-time homebuyers and sellers remain surprisingly ignorant of the basic legalities surrounding any property transaction.
24 June 2010Read More .....
Foreigners hungry for SA properties
Interest is specifically for properties between R3m to R12m.
24 June 2010Read More .....
Relocating to the coast: Pros, cons
If you’re looking for a more relaxed lifestyle and a reasonably priced property to go with it, living in a coastal holiday town could just be the answer.
23 June 2010Read More .....
Under-R800k range moving in Phalaborwa
The biggest movement in the Phalaborwa property market is properties in the R480k to R800k price range, while some sell for around R1,2m.
23 June 2010Read More .....
Steep rise in black property loan applicants
White applicants for properties has been consistently less than the combined total of Black and Coloured applicants over the last three years.
23 June 2010Read More .....
New 6% home loan scheme surfaces
Attorney for Cape-based scheme claims his client complies with the law.
21 June 2010Read More .....
Why you should pay above the required rate on your bond
We could all learn a lesson or two from the American billionaire Warren Buffet.
21 June 2010Read More .....
You have to share your rent with SARS
If you own one or more rental properties, the SA Revenue Service (SARS) requires you to draw up financial statements showing your expenses and profits in relation to these properties – and to pay tax on your profits.
18 June 2010Read More .....
'Property a stable investment'
The relatively greater stability and simplicity of property is pulling buy-to-rent investors back into this market.
17 June 2010Read More .....
Property or shares: Which is the better investment?
Rob Lawrence assesses the risks.
17 June 2010Read More .....
Verhuur-kopers dink twee keer
Beleggers in die residensiële verhuringsmark en vakansiehuiskopers bly skugter en dié aankope word steeds as nie-noodsaaklike kopies beskou.
17 June 2010Read More .....
To fix or not to fix your bond interest rate?
Unless things are really desperate, you should avoid fixing your interest rate.
18 June 2010Read More .....
More upmarket units for Jhb CBD
The historic Stuttafords office building will be converted into 133 rental apartments in what is to be the first big residential development in the Johannesburg CBD since the economic downturn.
17 June 2010Read More .....
'Banke verslap leningskriteria'
Johannesburg. – Banke het in Mei hul leningskriteria verder verslap en groter huislenings is toegestaan en kleiner huisdeposito's is vereis, het die eiendomsfinansieringsmaatskappy ooba Dinsdag gesê.
17 June 2010Read More .....
Families receiving homes in Youth Month
Seventy-six families are to receive new houses to commemorate Youth Month, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) recently said.
15 June 2010Read More .....
Take quick ‘test’ for 1st-time buyers
Young people need to be really sure they are ready before they buy their first home, or they may well come to regard the property as a burden.
15 June 2010Read More .....
How to improve property and add value
Relatively small sums spent on improvements over a period of years can add significantly to the value of a property.
15 June 2010Read More .....
‘Trustees have a thankless job’
One of the reasons why all too often sectional title schemes have trustees that “are not too keen on the job” is that these people are not paid to perform their important task of managing the affairs of the body corporate and sectional title owners tend
15 June 2010Read More .....
Residential estate to go under the hammer
The estate comprises 72 two-bedroom units, 35 three-bedroom units, a four-bedroom unit and a one-bedroomed unit.
15 June 2010Read More .....
Time to start building a buy-to-let property portfolio
Low prices, interest rates make it a good time to build your portfolio - Bill Rawson.
11 June 2010Read More .....
Woon in middestad, so mooi soos toeka
Johannesburg. - In die eerste groot residensiële ontwikkeling in die middestad van Johannesburg sedert die ekonomiese afswaai, word die historiese Stuttafords-kantoorgebou in 133 verhuurbare wooneenhede omgeskakel.
11 June 2010Read More .....
What you should know when insuring your home
Melody Redman says the choice is yours who to ensure your home with not the bank.
11 June 2010Read More .....
Smaller houses in big demand
Financial pressure pushing South Africans to purchase smaller houses.
11 June 2010Read More .....
Prices of smaller homes surge upwards
Househunters can expect to dig deeper into their pockets as average house prices start to rise.
9 June 2010Read More .....
Huurgeld troef ekonomie
Johannesburg. - Die gemiddelde huurgeld van woonstelle in Suid-Afrika se stede het geleidelik toegeneem in die ergste resessie sedert die 1980’s.
9 June 2010Read More .....
Check land use restrictions
Before committing finance to a property transaction, it is imperative that you are aware of any restrictions that may be imposed on the intended use of the property.
8 June 2010Read More .....
'Bekostigbare huise' se pryse groei vinnigste
Johannesburg. - Bekostigbaarheid is steeds die sleutelwoord in die huismark.
9 June 2010Read More .....
House price growth up further in May
Middle-segment home values increased further in May 2010, according to Absa's house price indices released on Monday.
7 June 2010Read More .....
Property rent rising steadily
Rents for property managed by residential property manager Trafalgar are continuing to rise steadily.
7 June 2010Read More .....
The more you have, the more you get
In this article I want to talk to you about Cash Investments, my CNBC interview on live television, and about Debt Counseling.
7 June 2010Read More .....
Train station opens at Durban stadium
Sports lovers will no longer have to walk more than a kilometre to get to the Moses Mabhida and Absa stadiums in Durban, thanks to a new train station opened on Monday.
8 June 2010Read More .....
Important insurance checkpoints for property sellers
If you’ve sold your home and agreed that the buyer can take occupation before transfer is registered, it is important to make sure that the property will remain insured, argues Berry Everitt.
7 June 2010Read More .....
Check insurance during occupation
If you’ve sold your home and agreed that the buyer can take occupation before transfer is registered, it is important to make sure that the property will remain properly insured during the occupation period.
4 June 2010Read More .....
WB-lig skyn later oor huismark
Johannesburg. - Eiendomskenners voorsien nie dat die komende Wêreldbeker-sokkertoernooi ’n onmiddellike regstreekse impak op die eiendomsmark gaan hê nie.
4 June 2010Read More .....
High net worth investors being wooed
The JSE PE ratio rerated by 82% last year, which certainly supports the view that the easy money in equities has been made.
4 June 2010Read More .....
What to look for when buying a property
Prospective buyers should compare all banks' home loan offerings.
4 June 2010Read More .....
Pay off the mortgage or buy another property?
What we should do with any spare cash.
4 June 2010Read More .....
Waterkloof Ridge stands on auction 5/6
A rare opportunity exists to buy 13 Waterkloof Ridge stands in this exclusive suburb of Pretoria going under the hammer this Saturday 5 June at 10h30.
2 June 2010Read More .....
House prices slowly recovering
House prices are on a slow recovery path, Standard Bank said on Tuesday as it released its residential property gauge for May.
2 June 2010Read More .....
Huismark lyk beter
Johannesburg. - Die vraag na residensiële verbandfinansiering groei teen ’n slakkepas, ten spyte van ’n merkbare verbetering in die huismark.
2 June 2010Read More .....
Standard: Huispryse herstel
Johannesburg. – Huispryse is stadig besig om te herstel, het Standard Bank Dinsdag gesê met die bekendmaking van sy nuutste residensiële eiendomsbarometer.
2 June 2010Read More .....
Slow pace of mortgage advances growth continues
Remains unchanged in April.
31 May 2010Read More .....
Seller disclosure always advisable
Although many sellers may be tempted to keep quiet about known defects in their property in the hope of selling it faster and for a better price, advice from Peter Gilmour, Chairman of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, is that honesty is always the best policy.
2 June 2010Read More .....
Bergvliet gets new retirement village
Building on the success of its flagship retirement lifestyle village, Evergreen Lifestyle, Muizenberg, which won international recognition in CNBC Arabia’s 2009 property industry awards, Amdec Property Development has launched a new Evergreen development
2 June 2010Read More .....
When a property inheritance is not wanted by the heir
What are you options?
2 June 2010Read More .....
Making lots of money with conversion rates
Making it easier for a customer to make a buying decision…
31 May 2010Read More .....
Gautrein goeie nuus vir eiendom
Die koms van die Gautrein hou goeie nuus in vir huismarkte op dié sneltrein se roetes.
31 May 2010Read More .....
Sect. title: Who must repair windows?
In terms of section 44(1)(c) of the Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 ("the Act") it is the duty of an owner to repair and maintain his section and keep it in a state of good repair.
27 May 2010Read More .....
The shrewd and not-so-shrewd investor
Really shrewd property buyers will often be found buying when markets are falling or stabilising.
27 May 2010Read More .....
Why property is a good asset class
Any comparison between investment outlets, today increasingly referred to as asset classes, has to take into account whether the sum invested is paid upfront by the investor or whether he can arrange a deferred payment.
27 May 2010Read More .....
The return of the global listed property market
Ian Anderson argues that worst of the crisis is behind us.
27 May 2010Read More .....
Property trends in Cape Town
To sell or not to sell. Realestateweb takes de Waterkant as a case study.
27 May 2010Read More .....
Under-R2,5m in demand in City Bowl
Young buyers seem to be falling over each other to purchase property below R2,5m in Cape Town’s City Bowl.
26 May 2010Read More .....
Purchasing to make some profit
If you’re property wise, you’ll be looking to make more “profit” when you buy a home than when you sell it in future.
26 May 2010Read More .....
Six sectional title owner responsibilities
Michael Bauer looks at who is responsible for paying levies, maintenance etc.
27 May 2010Read More .....
‘Many Cape sellers still unrealistic’
Many property owners in the Western Cape are finding it difficult to sell their homes because they simply will not adjust their price expectations.
24 May 2010Read More .....
Kleurryke Golding was eers ’n dokter
Die kleurryke loopbaan van ’n mediese dokter het daartoe gelei dat hy eienaar geword het van ’n nagklub en daarna uitvoerende hoof geword het van die land se grootste eiendomsmaatskappy.
25 May 2010Read More .....
Durban North retains residents well
Close to 80% of homeowners have lived in the Durban North area for over five years.
24 May 2010Read More .....
How to assess how much a buyer can really afford
Anton du Plessis provides some tips.
24 May 2010Read More .....
What’s selling in EL’s Beacon Bay?
All residential properties in the R1,2m and below range are selling in East London's Beacon Bay while townhouses are still the most popular property type.
21 May 2010Read More .....
Absa reckless lending court conviction bad for property
It could lead to banks again being too cautious in granting bonds, argues Tony Clarke.
21 May 2010Read More .....
What the Consumer Protection Act means for property deals
The way in which a home is represented to the potential purchasers will have to be carefully considered.
21 May 2010Read More .....
10 steps to a happier housing market
Liam Bailey suggests 10 simple changes to get Britain's home buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants smiling again.
24 May 2010Read More .....
Joburg rate clearance nightmare
Gauteng property sales are being hampered by backlog of rate clearance certificates.
21 May 2010Read More .....
Fixed interest rates are not beneficial for every bondholder
Rob Lawrence tells us why it is not a wise step.
17 May 2010Read More .....
House price trend growth higher in April
The property market is expected to recover further during the rest of 2010.
14 May 2010Read More .....
Landlords collecting rent arrears now fall within the scope of Debt Collectors Act
Estate agents and property managers collecting arrear rentals and levies must now be registered with the Council for Debt Collectors.
14 May 2010Read More .....
'Verdere herstel vir die huismark'
Johannesburg. – Die tendensgroei in die gemiddelde nominale waarde van eiendom in die middelsegment, waarvoor Absa huislenings goedgekeur het, was in April hoër op ’n jaargrondslag in vergelyking met Maart, volgens die nuutste Absa-huisprysindeks wat V
14 May 2010Read More .....
Luukse kuseiendom teen laer pryse te koop
’n Beduidende gedeelte van die Pinnacle Point Beach & Golf Resort in Mosselbaai gaan deur Pinnacle Point Holdings, die ontwikkelaars van dié luukse ontwikkeling, na die mark gebring word.
12 May 2010Read More .....
Pinnacle Point Resort Properties goes under hammer
A total of 17 prime stands and ten brand new, fully-furnishes golf villas will go under the hammer.
12 May 2010Read More .....
The Treoc Way Training Manual
Today I’d like to tell you about an exciting new product that we have developed, which is going to be made available to Platinum members free of charge. But first let me give you a little bit of background.
10 May 2010Read More .....
Standard se mediaanhuisprys in April 2% hoër
Standard Bank se mediaanhuisprys was in April 2% hoër as in April verlede jaar.
5 May 2010Read More .....
Location and price most important to SA home buyers
PropertyGenie poll reveals.
4 May 2010Read More .....
A healthy recovery underway
House price growth increases modestly in April.
4 May 2010Read More .....
Huiskopers moet spaar vir deposito
Johannesburg. - Die huismark is terug in die era van die deposito. Dit beteken dat voornemende huiskopers sal moet spaar vir ’n deposito voordat hulle ’n huis kan koop.
4 May 2010Read More .....
Tenant rights: What to do when landlords won't listen
Realestatweb considers your options.
5 May 2010Read More .....
Private property: imperative for growth
The developing world suffers from weak protection of physical and intellectual property rights.
3 May 2010Read More .....
The way forward according to Absa and Fine & Country
Jacques du Toit and Linda Erasmus on the current economic climate and provide insights into the property market.
30 April 2010Read More .....
Cape Town's ugly buildings
City Shockers Good Hope Centre & Cape Town Ritz Hotel (Sea Point).
30 April 2010Read More .....
Advice to property sellers
Graham Leslie argues you should get your buyer's deposit as and when agreed.
29 April 2010Read More .....
Beating the price average in property investing
Consider five factors affecting supply and demand.
29 April 2010Read More .....
Kopkrap om vir dié mark huis te kry
Johannesburg. - Selfs al word die regering se R1 miljard-waarborgfonds ingespan, gaan dit steeds kopkrap verg om die sogenaamde tussenmark van huisfinansiering te voorsien.
29 April 2010Read More .....
Signing a lease?
What it should contain to ensure you don't get screwed over.
29 April 2010Read More .....
Courts favour poor homeowners over banks
Courts are now more inclined to interpret the NCA in favour of those whose homes the banks try to repossess.
23 April 2010Read More .....
Useful tips for selling your property
Martin Schultheiss reckons you should prepare a property dossier before putting your house on the market.
20 April 2010Read More .....
Body corporates vs sectional title owners
Who is responsible for repairs?
20 April 2010Read More .....
Google Street View launch eagerly anticipated
Weary house-hunters will soon have a new tool to aid them in their search for the perfect home.
19 April 2010Read More .....
Significant improvement seen in Western Cape market
Pam Golding Western Cape sees upswing in sales volumes during final quarter
19 April 2010Read More .....
Offshore Product Offering
Last week in the article “Steps to Financial Freedom”, I wrote:
19 April 2010Read More .....
Superwinskopies vir die superrykes
Ontwikkelaars in die superluukse eiendomsmark wat gelikwideer word, het luukse “winskopies” tot gevolg.
14 April 2010Read More .....
Steps to Financial Freedom
This week I would like to write about the steps you have to take to Financial Freedom, but before I do that, please allow me to communicate to our Platinum Members first about an urgent matter.
15 April 2010Read More .....
New housing developement in KZN
Nedbank funds affordable housing development in Empangeni.
14 April 2010Read More .....
Our Own Listed Property Fund
As you know, an investment in residential properties like the Treoc type of entry level townhouses in security estates, is one of the best methods available to accumulate wealth and to provide for one’s own retirement with minimal property market risk. T
12 April 2010Read More .....
Court ruling property sale nightmare
Without a cut off date for bond approvals the seller cannot look for another buyer.
12 April 2010Read More .....
Geïntegreerde woonontwikkelings vaar goed
Ontwikkelaars wat spesialiseer in geïntegreerde behuisingsontwikkelings vaar goed in ’n mark waar residensiële ontwikkelaars steeds onder druk is.
9 April 2010Read More .....
Seef challenges preposterous property valuations
Municipal assessments that have seen some properties more than double in value since the previous property valuation in 2007
9 April 2010Read More .....
ENB pas verwagte huisprysgroei opwaarts aan
Johannesburg. - Huispryse het in Maart so vinnig versnel dat Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB) sy verwagte gemiddelde huisprysgroei vir die volle jaar opwaarts aangepas het.
7 April 2010Read More .....
Property still the best investment in SA
South Africa's residential property outlook is looking decidedly more positive.
6 April 2010Read More .....
House prices show further growth - FNB
Building sector still very weak, but showing early signs of stabilising
6 April 2010Read More .....
Bond approval delays can be costly
Rob Lawrence argues that delays could lead to sale contracts becoming invalid therefore don't leave it open-ended.
7 April 2010Read More .....
Siembamba
Staan op! Die ANC jeugliga “kindjie”, Julius Malema, se opswepery het sy eerste hoë profiel slagoffer geeis.
6 April 2010Read More .....
Wake-up call
Too many people think if they do things like they did it before, the result will be different.
6 April 2010Read More .....
Eiendomsmark toon matige herstel
Johannesburg. - Die oplewing in die huismark en gevolglike toename in die vraag na verbandfinansiering is sigbaar in ’n verbetering in die jaarlikse groei in verbandvoorskotte wat verwant is aan residensiële eiendom.
31 March 2010Read More .....
Gradual recovery in mortgage advances growth
And is forecast to continue to recover gradually during the course of the year.
31 March 2010Read More .....
Seychelle bied ‘hawe’ vir beleggers
Hoewel hulle in baie opsigte uiteenlopend is, het die eilande Mauritius en Seychelle twee dinge gemeen: Albei is in die Indiese Oseaan en albei word voor- keur-bestemmings vir ’n toenemende aantal Suid-Afrikaners (en oorsese beleggers) wat in buitelandse
1 April 2010Read More .....
Eerste SA fonds vir huurhuise op dreef
Johannesburg. - Suid-Afrika se eerste suiwer residensiële eiendomsfonds, wat later op die JSE wil noteer, is besig om gestalte te kry.
29 March 2010Read More .....
Arm huishoudings dalk vrygestel van eiendomsbelasting
Kaapstad. - Arm huishoudings kan vrygestel word van eiendomsbelasting as voorgestelde wysigings aan die Wet op Munisipale Eiendomsbelasting aanvaar word.
26 March 2010Read More .....
Northern suburbs rental property shortage
The shortage makes it a buoyant market for investors, argues Sean McCauley.
26 March 2010Read More .....
Buying a home?
Earn R15 000 or less a month, looking to buy a house? REW explores your options.
29 March 2010Read More .....
Marcus announces rate relief
Johannesburg - The South African Reserve Bank's (Sarb's) monetary policy committee (MPC) has cut the key repo rate by 50 basis points on Thursday, bringing it down to 6.5%, with the prime lending rate dropping to 10%.
25 March 2010Read More .....
Pension Fraud Headlines on Google
The Provider Road Show kicks off this week with presentations at:
23 March 2010Read More .....
Tenants rights: What you should know
What rights tenants have and what one should be aware of when signing a lease agreement.
24 March 2010Read More .....
Helfte van Januarie se verbandaansoekers swart
Johannesburg. - Suid-Afrika se groeiende swart middelklas het ’n merkwaardige mikpunt behaal.
23 March 2010Read More .....
Duurste huise in Goudstad
Johannesburg. - Huis, paleis: Waar belê Suid-Afrika se superrykes hul miljoene om ’n uiters gesogte adres te wys?
23 March 2010Read More .....
Stukkie eiendomsgeskiedenis te koop
Johannesburg. - Vir die belegger wat ’n stukkie van Suid-Afrika se ryk residensiële geskiedenis wil bekom, bied die verkoop van ’n provinsiale erfenis-eiendom in Johannesburg nou ’n gulde geleentheid.
19 March 2010Read More .....
Demand for rentals increases along the Atlantic seaboard
Resulting in a shortage of stock across all areas and price ranges.
18 March 2010Read More .....
The four "Cs" s to getting property finance
The key is to think like a bank manager.
18 March 2010Read More .....
Danger for Directors
Is it still safe to be a company director or member of a close corporation?
19 March 2010Read More .....
Absa's plan to seize more lower-income earners
Those earning less than R15 142 can buy a property without paying a deposit and get free homeownership classes.
17 March 2010Read More .....
Knowing how much your property is worth is important
It could help reduce municipal rates.
16 March 2010Read More .....
Absa gee nog R20 mjd. vir huislenings
Johannesburg. - Absa beplan om tot 2014 nóg R20 miljard se huislenings beskikbaar te stel vir laekostebehuising en het daarom ’n innoverende huisleningsproduk bekend gestel.
16 March 2010Read More .....
Huismark kry weer lewe
Johannesburg. – Die verslapte leningskriteria is besig om talle potensiële huiskopers na die residensiële eiendomsmark terug te lok, wat gelei het tot ’n verhoging in huispryse, het ooba Dinsdag gesê.
16 March 2010Read More .....
Cape Town's ugliest buildings and the history behind them.
CAPE TOWN - Cape Town's beauty is being spoilt by certain eyesores. Many of these buildings should never have been built and today stand out as ugly and iconic sore thumbs in our city.
16 March 2010Read More .....
Want to sell property in a hurry?
Try an auctioneer. You'll be in for a pleasant surprise
16 March 2010Read More .....
Hidden skeletons
Last week while having dinner with my friend, Dr John C. Maxwell, the great man said something that made me think. After I thought about it a lot I decided to share it with you.
17 March 2010Read More .....
Residensiële ontwikkelaars se oë begin vonkel
Johannesburg. - Ontwikkelaars van residensiële bouprojekte is stadig besig om hul bouplanne af te stof en hulle gereed te maak vir nuwe projekte.
12 March 2010Read More .....
How to Fast Track Creating Annuity Income in the Current Economy
Somerset West – Member & Subscriber Network Function – 25 March 2010
12 March 2010Read More .....
Now is not the time to buy
Investor Dean Morris argues that property is not a good investment at the moment.
12 March 2010Read More .....
Timeless property tips
From a Grande Dame of South Africa's residential property game.
10 March 2010Read More .....
Shortage of properties on sale
Gerhard Kotzé looks at how you can take advantage of the shortage of houses on the market.
11 March 2010Read More .....
Groothuis-pryse meer resessie-bestand
Johannesburg. - Die pryse van groot huise het die afswaai in die ekonomie heelwat beter getrotseer as die kleiner kategorieë.
11 March 2010Read More .....
Demand set to rise for smaller properties - economist
But will there be enough supply?
9 March 2010Read More .....
Huismark kry verdere woema
Johannesburg. – Stewige groei in volumes het die huismark in Februarie verdere woema gegee en al drie die onderliggende kategorieë in die middelsegment van die mark was op ’n stewige groeivoet, het Absa se huisprysindeks getoon.
10 March 2010Read More .....
Pryse stewig op rots gebou
Johannesburg. - Suid-Afrika se luukse-eiendomsmark het die storms van die resessie heelwat beter getrotseer as die ander segmente.
8 March 2010Read More .....
Townshiphuispryse hop al hoe laer
Johannesburg. - Dit is nie net in die motormark waar die onderkant van die mark as gevolg van die resessie die swaarste trek nie.
8 March 2010Read More .....
Search on for SA’s House of the Year
Twelve homes are in the running to be named South Africa’s House of the Year.
9 March 2010Read More .....
Students snatch up high-quality accommodation in Johannesburg
Students are becoming more discerning and demanding value for money in the accommodation they choose.
5 March 2010Read More .....
JHB klop Kaap met verhuring
Johannesburg. – Kaapstad se luukse residensiële gebiede bly duurder as dié van Johannesburg se noordelike voorstede, maar Suid-Afrikaanse besigheidskapitaal bied aan beleggers wat op soek is na huurgroei die beste opbrengste.
5 March 2010Read More .....
Sellers losing out as they wait for foreign buyers
Willie Steinmann says owners who are waiting for the World Cup are missing out on the surge.
2 March 2010Read More .....
Huisprys-groei sterker, maar aanbod oorskry steeds vraag
Johannesburg. - Huisprysgroei het in Februarie versnel, maar vir die mark om heeltemal buite die gevaarsone te wees, moet die residensiële vraag in ooreenstemming met die aanbod kom.
2 March 2010Read More .....
Thousands of Companies and Closed Corporations being deregistered….
Your company might be in danger… a danger you are not even aware off. Business owners, please read this. Sometimes you have to do the boring stuff too!
3 March 2010Read More .....
Bekostigbare behuising kry hupstoot
Johannesburg. - Standard Bank en die provinsiale regering van KwaZulu-Natal het Vrydag ’n memorandum van verstandhouding onderteken om te verseker dat hulle die volle voordeel sal trek uit investering van die nasionale regering in bekostigbare huise.
1 March 2010Read More .....
Huisprysgroei versnel
Johannesburg. - ’n Stygende vraag na huisvesting het huisprysgroei in Februarie laat versnel, wat die bestaande huismark ’n beter plek maak om in te wees.
2 March 2010Read More .....
John Maxwell Invite
Dear Lightminded Subscribers Dr John Maxwell, one of my favourite American writers, will be visiting South Africa this month. He will speak on 6 March at Gallagher Estate in Midrand on the I Can Leadership Conference from 09h00 till 16h00.
1 March 2010Read More .....
Court shocker: Lazy lawyer's costly property error
Buyer snaps property ‘bargain of the century' from under a bank's nose
24 February 2010Read More .....
Huiskopers betaal groter deposito’s
Johannesburg. - Huiskopers moes in Januarie vanjaar ’n groter deposito as persentasie van die koopsom van ’n huis neersit as in Januarie verlede jaar.
18 February 2010Read More .....
ooba: Huismark herstel
Johannesburg. – Die eiendomsfinansieringsmaatskappy ooba se jongste statistieke wys dat die besluit wat banke in Augustus geneem het om 100%-verbande toe te staan, het die aantal verbruikers wat vir huislenings aansoek gedoen het ’n stewige hupstoot gege
18 February 2010Read More .....
Let's scrap the National Credit Act, JZ!
Why the law is bad for banks, property owners, the economy
16 February 2010Read More .....
New land policy on the cards
Land affairs minister says his department is working on a policy aimed at speeding up land reform.
17 February 2010Read More .....
Beware hidden 2010 rental costs
Insurance tips, traps for home-owners who open their homes to foreigners
17 February 2010Read More .....
Zuma's gift to property developers
Real estate fuel from South Africa's singing President
15 February 2010Read More .....
Absa: Huismark sal kop verder oplig
Die bestendige herstel van die residensiële huismark sal na verwagting verdere momentum in 2010 kry, sê Absa.
15 February 2010Read More .....
Don't fall for RA tax perk hype
You're likely to lose money. Invest in property instead.
12 February 2010Read More .....
Eiendom kan inflasie steeds klop
Die inkomste-uitkerings van genoteerde eiendomsfondse gaan vanjaar tot enkelsyfergroei verlangsaam, maar dit sal steeds meer wees as inflasie.
12 February 2010Read More .....
How to follow the money in the property market
Find the artists - they spot bargains just before prices move up.
10 February 2010Read More .....
Huispryse kan vanjaar met tot 6% groei – Absa
Die nominale waarde van huispryse in die middelsegment van die huismark (80 m² tot 400 m²) was in Januarie vanjaar 5,1% hoër as in Januarie verlede jaar.
10 February 2010Read More .....
Expect to feel 6% richer this year
Home owners can expect property values to go up in 2010 - Absa
10 February 2010Read More .....
7 top tips for property investors
Stick to these basics, you'll make big money - SA property company boss
8 February 2010Read More .....
Meer huise in metro’s verkoop
Die vraag na primêre wonings in die land se groot metropolitaanse gebiede dryf tans die groei in volume en huispryse.
2 February 2010Read More .....
Bank managers throw more cash at property
Home-buyers, particularly of lower-priced houses, find it easier to buy - latest stats
3 February 2010Read More .....
Road rage tips for real estate owners
Annoyed about where someone parks? Or a neighbour's ugly wheels? Action you can take
3 February 2010Read More .....
Toilet humour for property investors
Investments not worth the paper they're written on; and a new way to recycle your Enron-style documents
3 February 2010Read More .....
Top investment tips from a hungry property vulture
Making millions: Distressed property fundi talks to Realestateweb
3 February 2010Read More .....
Standard Bank-indeks wys afname in huispryse
Johannesburg. – Desember se afgeronde data het ’n pas van inkrimping van 3,7% jaar-tot-jaar in mediaan-huispryse opgelewer, gevolg deur ’n afname van 2,9% op ’n jaargrondslag in Januarie 2010. Dit bring die aantal maandelikse afnames te staan op 20
3 February 2010Read More .....
The Provider Road Show
I am astounded by the overwhelming response we received to last week’s message about the Provider trusts. Our readers showed once again that they care about their fellow man, and also that they are aware of the fact that the pension industry is leaving p
4 February 2010Read More .....
Punished! SA property investors
Scary reports suggest few landlords are coping with their tenants. Are things really that bad?
2 February 2010Read More .....
ENB: Huispryse styg
Johannesburg. – Huispryse het in Januarie vir die derde agtereenvolgende maand op ’n jaargrondslag gestyg ná amper ’n jaar se daling, het Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB) Maandag gesê.
2 February 2010Read More .....
ENB: Eiendomsvraag verbeter
Johannesburg. – Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB) se eiendomsbarometer, wat Donderdag bekend gemaak is, het bevind dat die vraag na residensiële eiendom ietwat verbeter het.
28 January 2010Read More .....
Avoid property tax: Get another wife, earn timeshare
Not every tax hole has been plugged in South Africa.
25 January 2010Read More .....
Huismark-kenners verras
Johannesburg. – Dit wil voorkom asof eiendomsekonome die krag van die herstel in die huismark onderskat het, met die daling van huispryse in 2009 wat meer matig was as wat verwag is.
19 January 2010Read More .....
Huismark tel kop op, maar herstelproses is stadig
Die huismark is beslis besig om uit verlede jaar se resessie te ontsnap, maar die herstelproses gaan baie stadig wees.
19 January 2010Read More .....
SA escapes global house price crash - new stats
The worst wasn't bad. Why is South Africa in better shape than other housing markets?
19 January 2010Read More .....
"Cut property tax, increase import taxes"
Telling SARS how to get the economy moving. Join the debate
19 January 2010Read More .....
Absa verwag huismark sal verbeter
Johannesburg. – Die residensiële eiendomsmark sal na verwagting geleidelik in 2010 verbeter, het Absa Maandag gesê.
19 January 2010Read More .....
Interest in EL's lower-end, but. . .
The East London property market's lower end is seeing a tremendous amount of interest from potential buyers, but bond approvals for these buyers are as scarce as hens' teeth.
18 January 2010Read More .....
Top tax tips for property investors
Renting out a property for income? Indispensable tax advice
18 January 2010Read More .....
SA estate agents take more than 3 months to sell a home
But "property sales activity" is up dramatically
15 January 2010Read More .....
Huismark se fondament is volgens ENB stewig
Die Suid-Afrikaanse huismark het verlede jaar se finansiële krisis toe verbasend goed oorleef.
12 January 2010Read More .....
JSE shares vs Camps Bay flat: Which is best?
Sizing up whether you should invest in the stock market or property
15 January 2010Read More .....
SA property: The bad news first
Your house fell in value by 4% in 2009, but this year your asset will work better for you - latest house price stats
11 January 2010Read More .....
ENB: Goeie en slegte huisnuus
Johannesburg. – Daar is goeie en slegte nuus vir huispryse, het Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB) Maandag gesê toe die bank sy jongste huisprysindeks uitgereik het.
11 January 2010Read More .....
High demand for homes close to good schools
Edugration - the new South African property trend
15 January 2010Read More .....
2010: Getting set for good property returns
Thinking of buying a home this year? What estate agency bosses see in their crystal balls
11 January 2010Read More .....
How do I rent my house to 2010 soccer visitors?
The question on every South African home-owner’s lips
8 January 2010Read More .....
Pinnacle Point: Deep in the ruff
Big money woes, legal tussle with Absa: Will luxury property developer survive 2010?
7 January 2010Read More .....
Prime property: Back with a bang
Estate agents in exclusive South African suburbs report a roaring trade.
6 January 2010Read More .....
Scientific breakthrough: Throw out your lightbulbs
Wallpaper, paint to replace indoor lighting; Plus, world property bubbles' latest.
5 January 2010Read More .....
SA's property market in 2010
Property prices, volumes; where they’re heading.
5 January 2010Read More .....
Huismark skep moed
’n Dramatiese oplewing in verkoopsyfers van eiendomsgroepe die laaste ses maande van verlede jaar dui op ’n positiewe vertoning vir die huismark in 2010.
5 January 2010Read More .....
Five property investment rules
You can still make "serious money" in residential property.
5 January 2010Read More .....
Tax implications on property rentals during the 2010 Soccer World Cup
David Warneke considers tax implications of rentig out property during the World Cup.
5 January 2010Read More .....
Besin hieroor voor jy gaste huisves vir 2010-toernooi
Mense wat munt wil slaan uit die Wêreldbeker-sokkertoernooi deur hul eiendom aan buitelanders te verhuur, moet deeglik besin.
5 January 2010Read More .....
Average house deposit dips
The average deposit as a percentage of the buying price of a house currently equates to 15,7% (R132,831) when compared with a deposit of 18,7% (R148,554) in November 2008.
15 December 2009Read More .....
NC's Richmond books new status
Richmond in the Karoo recently became Africa's Booktown and this has had some positive spinoffs for the property market in the little Karoo town.
15 December 2009Read More .....
Student complex developed in WC
A new apartment complex for students is being developed just 60m from the Wellington campus of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
15 December 2009Read More .....
South Africa’s insatiable property appetite
Small, cheap is being snapped up. Rentals of more than R3 500 are “testy”
14 December 2009Read More .....
Get a market overview of 2009
So what is the verdict on 2009 from a residential property perspective? Was it as calamitous as 2008 and what's in store for 2010?
11 December 2009Read More .....
Rise in new bonds to continue
The steady rise in new residential mortgage loans granted is expected to continue until at least mid-2010, whereafter one may see some flattening out in the level as the positive impact of the 2009 interest rate cuts wears off, according to FNB Home Loan
11 December 2009Read More .....
Station boosting interest in Centurion
Units in townhouse complexes near the Gautrain station in Centurion are starting to attract investor interest.
11 December 2009Read More .....
Property roulette: Place your bets
Average South African house now costs R1m. Will residential property rally last?
11 December 2009Read More .....
Gemiddelde deposito as persentasie van huisprys daal, wys
Die gemiddelde deposito as persentasie van die koopprys van ’n huis staan tans op 15,7% (R132 831) vergeleke met ’n deposito van 18,7% (R148 554) in November verlede jaar.
11 December 2009Read More .....
SA huismark groei sesde vinnigste
Die Suid-Afrikaanse huismark is weer onder die ses snels groeiende huismarkte ter wêreld, blyk uit die Knight Frank- globale huisprysindeks vir die derde kwartaal van vanjaar.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Huispryse veilig in ‘positiewe terrein’
Johannesburg. - Die oobarometer loop tans voor wat betref huisprysgroei onder die verskeie huisprysindekse.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Global housing on the mend
Investors across the globe are starting to return to residential property markets, following what has arguably been one of the longest and strongest real estate slumps the world has ever seen.
11 December 2009Read More .....
Lazy property lawyers vs sleepy civil servants
It’s official: Lawyers aren’t lazy. Deeds Office circular
11 December 2009Read More .....
Ways to use bonus for home improvement
Homeowners and consumers who are making an informed decision to invest their bonus or 13th cheque in their property will reap the benefits in the near future.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Construction starts at Knysna estate
Construction of infrastructure has begun at a 250-unit lifestyle estate which caters for a growing demand for retirement accommodation.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Should you sell via public tender?
Property sellers in South Africa now have more choice available than ever when it comes to selling their properties.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Tenants must avoid distressed landlords
Tenants in rental properties are also being put at risk when banks (and other creditors) take back properties.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Sect. tile: Special resolution rules
Many of the rules that apply to the passing of a special resolution for a sectional title scheme are often not fully understood by the trustees of the scheme, and this can lead to problems.
10 December 2009Read More .....
Gemiddelde huis kos nou R1 m.
Die gemiddelde huis is nou meer as R1 miljoen werd.
8 December 2009Read More .....
"Donald Trump is bullying me"
Three humble property owners stand in way of real estate magnate's plans to create world's greatest golf course.
8 December 2009Read More .....
Westville houses in short supply
There seems to be consensus among agents in Durban's Westville that available houses in the area are in very short supply at the moment.
9 December 2009Read More .....
Pinnacle Point in breach of funding warranty - Absa
Bank holds back on funding until issues of massive Nigerian golf course ownership are addressed.
9 December 2009Read More .....
Rate of house price growth accelerating - Absa
The bank says there is a prospect of price deflation of less than 0.5% for the full year.
7 December 2009Read More .....
Absa: Huisprysgroei verbeter
Johannesburg. – Nominale groei op ’n jaargrondslag in plaaslike huispryse het in November verder verbeter, het Absa Maandag gesê.
7 December 2009Read More .....
Coastal bargains abound this year
Holidaymakers who are flocking to the coast and contemplating the possibility of buying a holiday home, will find that there are a lot more bargains to be had this year.
8 December 2009Read More .....
Six reasons not to invest in offshore property
And why I did it anyway: Confessions of a South African investor
8 December 2009Read More .....
Huis-winskopies wag op kusbesoekers
Vir vakansiegangers wat langs die kus gaan uitspan en die moontlikheid van ’n vakansiehuis oorweeg, is daar vanjaar gewis meer winskopies as in ander jare beskikbaar.
4 December 2009Read More .....
CT CBD apartments almost completed
Six, the only residential development currently being built in the Cape Town CBD, is nearing completion.
7 December 2009Read More .....
Rental market continues to improve
Last month's reported improvement in the letting market is continuing at a greater pace than before.
7 December 2009Read More .....
Let the property games begin
South Africa's hottest dinner topic: How to rent out your home to strangers
7 December 2009Read More .....
2010 impact to have long-term impact
The South African property market is performing well compared to other global markets and the World Cup will affect the real estate market over the long term.
3 December 2009Read More .....
Evicting tenants: How to do it
Steps you can take when your tenant doesn’t pay.
3 December 2009Read More .....
Sellers, beware of expired mandates!
Sellers need to be aware that even after a mandate expires, they could still be held liable for commission claims by an estate agent.
4 December 2009Read More .....
Levy increases vital to build reserves
Regular maintenance is essential for any sectional title complex to stay neat and presentable, while preventing bigger and more expensive problems from occurring.
4 December 2009Read More .....
Make more money for your body corporate
New tax incentive tip for sectional title, share block scheme owners.
3 December 2009Read More .....
Securing your home while you soak up the sun
How to keep the crooks out of your property
3 December 2009Read More .....
Huismark verbeter vinniger as voorspel
Toestande in die residensiële eiendomsmark is besig om heelwat vinniger te verbeter as wat in die vooruitsig gestel is.
4 December 2009Read More .....
How to determine realistic price
The key factor when it comes to property investments – whether buying or selling – is realistic pricing.
1 December 2009Read More .....
Home business: What about VAT?
The question of when VAT is payable on the sale of a residential property has new relevance in the current economic cycle where many people are establishing home-based businesses to make a living.
1 December 2009Read More .....
Sect. title: All about chairperson
In sectional title schemes the chairperson can be mistaken for (or decide to be) "the king of the castle".
1 December 2009Read More .....
FNB house price index climbs
The index is up 2% compared with a revised 0.9% drop the previous month.
1 December 2009Read More .....
Property market: Bumping along the bottom
FNB says house prices up; Standard Bank says we're past the worst, but values still down
1 December 2009Read More .....
JHI en Pam Golding vat hande
Twee van die land se groot eiendomrolspelers, Pam Golding Eiendomme (PGE) en JHI, het ’n samewerkingsooreenkoms gesluit.
1 December 2009Read More .....
Clifton home has hefty price tag
A home in Clifton's Nettleton Road has come on to the market at a whopping R47m.
1 December 2009Read More .....
Guide to letting your apartment for the world cup
New series: Popular 2010 property questions answered
1 December 2009Read More .....
Five profitable property strategies
How to maximise your real estate returns, minimise the debt
1 December 2009Read More .....
Bronkhorstspruit draws developers
Strong rental demand for residential units in Bronkhorstspruit is encouraging new development.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Belê-vertroue in eiendom is terug
Vertroue in eiendom as ’n beleggingsklas is besig om vlam te vat danksy gunstiger markomstandighede.
27 November 2009Read More .....
'Roei korrupsie uit'
Kaapstad. – Mnr. Tokyo Sexwale, minister van huisvesting, het ’n beroep op die sakesektor gedoen om “hande met die regering te vat” in die stryd teen korrupsie in die lewering van behuising.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Water-saving and rain harvesting
A report released in early October 2009 by the Water Research Commission of South Africa found that South Africa has 4% less water than 20 years ago.
30 November 2009Read More .....
P24 wins best property site award
Thank you to all our Property24 fans who cast their votes in the 2009 South African E-Commerce Awards.
30 November 2009Read More .....
Palm Jumeirah property development in peril
Trouble for Dubai's man-made islands and its celebrity property buyers - Dubai real estate fiasco.
30 November 2009Read More .....
Flats for the filthy rich
What R75m and more gets you at Cape Town's V&A Waterfront.
30 November 2009Read More .....
Housing dept in hot water over play
The DA is calling on the auditor general and the public protector to investigate what the party is calling "a scandalous, Sarafina-style theatre production", which cost the Housing Department R22,6m last year.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Investor faith growing again
Faith in property as an investment is beginning to rekindle, say the property experts.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Sales agreements can be altered
Once a property sales agreement has been signed, it is not necessarily cast in stone and can, in fact, be altered.
27 November 2009Read More .....
SA property still safe investment
The South African property market is still the right place for all except the most sophisticated South African investors to be.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Affordable housing gets a French lift
Affordable housing in SA received a significant boost yesterday with a loan of 20m euro (about R225m) for social and private rental projects.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Banks "distorting" property prices
Should property buyers be stuck with a home, and its mortgage, for at least 5 years?
27 November 2009Read More .....
Beleggers kyk weer met koop-oë na Clarens
Eiendomskopers kyk met hernieude belangstelling na Clarens, sê plaaslike agente.
24 November 2009Read More .....
What foreigners like in Somerset West
Foreigners looking to buy in Somerset West tend to go for homes priced at above R3m.
25 November 2009Read More .....
Renting? Learn about 'option to buy'
As the property market and economic conditions improve, sitting tenants in rented accommodation should seriously consider getting an "option to buy' clause added to their rental agreements.
25 November 2009Read More .....
2010 villa raffle: Scam or scintillating opportunity?
Cape wine estate property. It could be yours for €99, or about R1 000
25 November 2009Read More .....
Wittes trek na pondokke
Johannesburg. – Die aantal wittes wat na informele nedersettings trek het tussen 1996 en 2007 teen die vinnigste koers gegroei van al Suid-Afrika se bevolkingsgroepe.
25 November 2009Read More .....
Goeie nuus vir eiendomsmark
Johannesburg. – Die nuus dat Suid-Afrika uit sy resessie is, kan nou positief vir eiendomspryse wees.
27 November 2009Read More .....
Wrapping up Christmas
Give this Christmas a whole new spin by recycling for your gifts and gift wrapping!
23 November 2009Read More .....
How to scrutinize a lease
Lengthy lease agreements filled with legal jargon can be daunting, especially for the hundreds of new tenants joining the letting market each day.
24 November 2009Read More .....
Recovery is thin, but there is hope
Many economists are of the opinion that our economy is starting to show signs of a recovery.
24 November 2009Read More .....
Student housing going fast
If you or your children are studying in Cape Town and haven't sorted out accommodation for the 2010 academic year, you'd best get started because rental units are going fast.
24 November 2009Read More .....
Estate agents are being ripped off
Ag shame, hey. The poor old South African estate agents can't even afford to buy a decent home anymore because they simply don't earn enough money. At least that was one of the findings contained in the latest survey of the real estate sector.
24 November 2009Read More .....
St. Tropez, Monacoen nou SA
Johannesburg. - Suid-Afrika se spogeiendomme vir superrykes is nou op gelyke voet met eiendomme in internasionale superluukse gebiede soos Monaco en St. Tropez.
23 November 2009Read More .....
SA huiseienaars kan sóverblyf verskaf in 2010
Jawitz Properties het ’n vennootskap met die Kanadese maatskappy iStopOver aangegaan om Suid-Afrikaanse huiseienaars toegang te bied tot buitelandse besoekers op soek na verblyf tydens die Wêreldbeker-sokkertoernooi 2010 en daarna.
20 November 2009Read More .....
Buying? Identify the area's character
It is important to identify the character of the area you are looking for.
20 November 2009Read More .....
Time for agents to cut commissions
Forget about interest rates. Insist on slashing fees. It'll be good for SA economy & your bank balance.
20 November 2009Read More .....
SHOWCASE: Chic chateau breaks mould
THE Pretoria suburb of Irene has managed to keep its rural charm throughout the ages, and while it is equipped with all the amenities and services one would expect of the 21st century, it has managed to retain its “out-in-the-country” feeling.
20 November 2009Read More .....
DÉCOR & DESIGN — Gardening: Perennial pleasures
Agapanthus ‘Blue Velvet’ (left) Hibiscus Luna (above). 1 of 2 NOVEMBER is dominated by agapanthus. Agapanthus is one of our most familiar indigenous flowers, but that doesn’t detract from the thrill of seeing wave after wave of blue flowers in gardens,
20 November 2009Read More .....
What is the future of house prices?
House prices will remain flat for the first half of 2010 and then increase by between five and 10% in the second half of the year.
23 November 2009Read More .....
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT: Setting the pace
1 of 3 COMPLEMENTED by truly breathtaking views of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs this family home of property guru and MD of Pace Properties, David Green, is a decadently enchanting experience for anybody who visits.
23 November 2009Read More .....
CT CBD: Prices and other news
Entry-level prices in Cape Town's Central City currently range from around R650k, which will secure a bachelor pad or single bed apartment of around 50 to 65sqm.
20 November 2009Read More .....
Rate fix: Bear this in mind
One of the most frequently asked questions that he hears is: "Should I fix the interest rate on my mortgage bond and, if so, at what rate and for how long?"
20 November 2009Read More .....
Marketing: Video killing all the stars
Is video likely to be the new real estate marketing tool?
20 November 2009Read More .....
Tips for revitalising your home
Most people think that a home makeover is a taking-out-a-second-mortgage event that means you have to move in with your mother-in-law while builders annex your home – but it needn't be so traumatic.
18 November 2009Read More .....
'Perk it up' with a coffee machine
There is nothing quite as tantalising as the smell of freshly brewed coffee. Modern coffee machines offer homeowners an easy way of enjoying the best of café society from the comfort of their own home.
18 November 2009Read More .....
'Use portion of CGT for new homes'
Frustration is building among people in the lower income levels caused by homeownership being beyond their reach – despite repeated promises from the state that delivery here would speed up.
18 November 2009Read More .....
No transfer tax on these properties
Those inheriting property from a deceased estate will not be required to pay transfer duty on it, provided the bequeather has already done so.
18 November 2009Read More .....
So(lar), do you want to save money?
A solar water heater can provide you with between 50% and 90% of a home's total hot water requirements, and since solar energy is free, this translates into a saving of up to 70% of your monthly electrical bill. Eskom's Solar Water Heating Programme mean
18 November 2009Read More .....
New Bantry Bay development launches
'The Bantry Bay' development, a seven-storey building comprising of 39 north-facing apartments with sea views on the slopes of wind-free Bantry Bay has been launched in one of South Africa's most sought after suburbs.
18 November 2009Read More .....
NCA causing red tape, but should it go?
The lower and elite segments of the market are seemingly receiving preference as far as bonds are concerned, while mid-range approvals are harder to obtain.
19 November 2009Read More .....
What's in a number? Why address matters
Displaying a proper visible street address is more important than just indicating where one lives.
19 November 2009Read More .....
South Africa's estate agents too poor to invest in property
At best, they can afford modest homes - salary shocker
19 November 2009Read More .....
Price your property right
Avoiding the pitfalls of overpricing, getting the best property price
19 November 2009Read More .....
Property sales up 50% - estate agency group
Seeff, one of South Africa's biggest residential real estate sales companies, reports bumper October
19 November 2009Read More .....
Marcus draws plaudits for verve
Johannesburg - Gill Marcus underlined her debut as Reserve Bank governor by saying monetary policy remained "open for discussion" in a speech observers lauded for its blend of openness, transparency and caution.
18 November 2009Read More .....
Marcus shows rate cut caution
Johannesburg - The South African Reserve Bank's (Sarb's) monetary policy committee (MPC) has left the key repo rate unchanged on Tuesday at 7%, leaving the prime lending rate steady at 10.5%
18 November 2009Read More .....
Building in Gauteng, WC on the mend
The residential building markets in the Western Cape and Gauteng are starting to pick up.
18 November 2009Read More .....
It's only natural to think neutral
Natural materials and neutral tones will transform your bathroom into a fresh and uplifting space that offers refuge from the outside world.
18 November 2009Read More .....
'Low-cost housing is shocking'
Some form of modification in the building of low-cost housing is now necessary, because time and again those to whom the contract is awarded are incapable of doing the job efficiently.
18 November 2009Read More .....
‘’n Nasionale skande’
Johannesburg. – Dit gaan R1,3 miljard kos om swak geboude huise in die staat se behuisingsprogram te herstel, het mnr. Tokio Sexwale, minister van huisvesting, Maandag gesê.
16 November 2009Read More .....
Herstel in huismark is volhoubaar
Verbeterings in die belangrike drywers van die huismark dui daarop dat die herstel in dié mark volhoubaar gaan wees.
16 November 2009Read More .....
House prices surge for fifth month in a row
Oobarometer indicates 9.9% year-on-year increase in annual house prices.
13 November 2009Read More .....
Buyers, beware of Title Deeds delay
It can be very risky to buy a home in the confident expectation of selling it soon after transfer – and speedily registering the property into the new buyer's name.
16 November 2009Read More .....
Oobarometer: House prices up 9% y/y
The October oobarometer price index recorded an increase in the year-on-year (y/y) house prices of 9,9%, mortgage originators ooba said on Friday.
16 November 2009Read More .....
Property valuations: Get a discount!
Special offer for Realestateweb newsletter subscribers
16 November 2009Read More .....
Getting rid of the buzz
Along with the hot summer days and warm evenings, come one of the most annoying pests - the dreaded mosquito. Antonella Dési offers simple and effective ways of keeping these bothersome pests at bay.
13 November 2009Read More .....
New low-cost concept launched
A new low-cost housing concept was launched on Thursday as part of government's ongoing strategy to alleviate the housing shortage.
13 November 2009Read More .....
People not moving often
Middle class South Africans hold on to their homes longer and are currently unable to upgrade with the same alacrity as they did in the past.
11 November 2009Read More .....
US on the way up and SA looking good
The US property market is on the mend and SA's prospects are also looking very rosy.
11 November 2009Read More .....
Llandudno: Biggest 2009 sale achieved
A home in Cape Town's Llandudno was sold for R18m – the highest price achieved in the suburb this year.
11 November 2009Read More .....
Berry's crew backs Bedfordview
Upmarket residential sales are up in the "Sandton of the East".
11 November 2009Read More .....
CGT: The new rules for homes
Capital gains tax: What you pay when you sell your home.
11 November 2009Read More .....
Wealthier home-owners sheltered from recession
Come rain or shine, higher-end city properties keep heading up in price - new report.
11 November 2009Read More .....
Don't hide house's problems from buyer
It is extremely unwise to hide any problems in your home from a prospective buyer.
12 November 2009Read More .....
House market shows signs of improvement
AFTER almost a year of nominal year-on-year price deflation in the housing market, some price inflation was recorded in the past two months, according to Absa ’s calculations.
13 November 2009Read More .....
Power up your money
Antonella Dési speaks to Gavin Barta from Mr. Power to find out a little more about this energy-saving technology.
10 November 2009Read More .....
Property tax amnesty: Beware bank manager nasties
Check you'll still qualify for a mortgage before switching out of trust, CC
10 November 2009Read More .....
Water infrastructure: SA's next big crisis exposed
If Eskom fiasco shocks you, brace yourself for staggering water, sewage problems.
10 November 2009Read More .....
Good coffee could sell houses
"Give me enough coffee and I could rule the world."
11 November 2009Read More .....
Sect. title: The pet problem
Sectional title schemes, particularly densely populated ones with little or no common property gardens, may not be the ideal places for pets.
11 November 2009Read More .....
Make sure rates are paid before buying
Regular warnings by spokespeople for the real estate industry about the danger of trying to move into a property on which the rates or the water/services bills have not been paid, have gone unnoticed by many buyers.
11 November 2009Read More .....
Cape Quarter 'extension' opens
The Cape Quarter "extension", a 50,000sqm lifestyle development comprising retail space, offices, 14 luxury apartments, a gym, health spa and parking, was officially launched in the trendy De Waterkant area of Green Point, Cape Town, on Saturday 7 Novemb
10 November 2009Read More .....
Sexwale and shoddy houses
About a year ago, I wrote a highly critical column about Lindiwe Sisulu's abominable management of the Housing Department.
10 November 2009Read More .....
Glamour up your décor
Glamour. It speaks to us of precious metals, exotic woods, custom furnishings, and fabrics plucked directly off the Silk Road. It's opulence. It's elegance. But surprisingly, it's also within reach.
10 November 2009Read More .....
Sonsoekers se keuseval vanjaar op KZN
Johannesburg. - Vakansiegangers gaan vanjaar eerder sak en pak op die gewilde vakansiebestemmings aan die noord- en suidkus van KwaZulu-Natal toesak as dié in die Wes-Kaap.
9 November 2009Read More .....
Watch out for water damage!
Unless it's really obvious, you will probably not notice water damage in a home as much as an overgrown garden, peeling paint or a lack of light.
9 November 2009Read More .....
Don't skimp on home's insurance
The financial difficulties that many homeowners have experienced over the last year or more have led to some reneging on their home insurance payments, but this should be avoided even if it means making drastic cuts elsewhere.
9 November 2009Read More .....
A bit potty
No matter how small your patio or garden, it can become a lush and colourful oasis with the clever use of containers.
9 November 2009Read More .....
New ways to buy a house
Residential property players are becoming more innovative in their home financing offering to make property investment transactions more accessible.
9 November 2009Read More .....
Property profits: Getting the purchase price right
How to chop thousands of rands off a property's offer price.
9 November 2009Read More .....
SHOWCASE: Oceanfront masterpiece
1 of 3 CLIFTON’s Nettleton Road needs no introduction as the premier location on the Cape’s Atlantic Seaboard, home to some of the most elite and expensive property in the country.
10 November 2009Read More .....
DÉCOR & DESIGN — Gardening: Extend the festivities to your outdoor area
1 of 2 WITH Christmas a little over six weeks away, there is still time to get the garden up to speed for the festive season, with all the outdoor living and entertaining that comes with it.
10 November 2009Read More .....
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT: Dream home with business appeal
1 of 2 WELTEVREDEN, a newly- restored 200-year-old homestead situated in the Boland town of Stellenbosch, is being marketed by Seeff properties.
10 November 2009Read More .....
Availability of new bonds welcomed by agents
BACK TO NORMAL Confirming recent reports from many of the members of his institute, Ivan Neethling, chairman of the Western Cape branch of the Institute of Estate Agents of SA, said the financial institutions are more willing to give mortgage bonds on ho
10 November 2009Read More .....
LIFESTYLE INVESTMENT: Ideal pad for budding farmers
1 of 2 PAARL has the distinct heritage of being S A ’s former capital of the wine industry, once housing the administrative and internationally acclaimed Co-operative Wine Growers Association. Paarl is also home to the famous Nederburg estate.
10 November 2009Read More .....
Gemiddelde huisprys binnekort R1 miljoen
Huispryse het die afgelope twee maande só kop opgetel dat Absa se gemiddelde huisprys binnekort deur die R1 miljoen-kerf gaan breek.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Property insurance: Tips & traps
From sneaky exclusions, like electricity surges, to what the body corporate should cover.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Property speculators: Government's "Enemy #1"
Close to finalising land grab law, South Africa's politicians pick over property values
5 November 2009Read More .....
Outdoor trends: What's in?
Having just returned from Spoga, Germany, the largest outdoor furniture trade show in Europe, Michelle Gibbons, director of MBM Exclusive Outdoor Furniture, shares her insights with Property 24 into the emerging 2010 international outdoor furniture trend
6 November 2009Read More .....
Be careful with big kids moving back
Many grown-up children have had to move back in with their parents to cope with the economic downturn – but those parents need to ensure that caring for their children and/or grandchildren does not put them at financial risk.
6 November 2009Read More .....
All about levy stabilization funds
Levy stabilization funds are common in sectional title schemes designed for retired persons.
6 November 2009Read More .....
2010 rentals: Long term or quick gain?
Should property owners be withholding the availability of their investment property for long-term rentals with an eye towards the 2010 Soccer World Cup?
6 November 2009Read More .....
Verbandproduk gee 99-jaar-huurpag
Voornemende eiendomskopers kan nou verbandfinansiering kry vir ’n eiendom met ’n 99-jaar-huurpag.
6 November 2009Read More .....
Goedkoper huise ál gewilder, wys mediaanprys
Standard Bank se mediaanhuisprysgroei was in Oktober steeds diep in die rooi, terwyl van die ander banke se huisprysindekse ’n hanetree weg is van positiewe jaarlikse groei.
4 November 2009Read More .....
Redefine to sell properties
Big SA listed property company set to dramatically chop its property portfolio.
4 November 2009Read More .....
South Africa's house prices head up
Absa says residential property values are improving after a year of falling prices - latest report.
4 November 2009Read More .....
Green living: Take it with you when you go
This could be the property of the future. South African prototype: Pictures, details.
4 November 2009Read More .....
Get some holiday security tips
End-of-year holidays are six weeks away and of course this is always the time that people like to let their hair down and have a good time.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Property sector prefer online to print
Print is steadily losing ground as the Internet becomes the number one advertising medium for estate agents, a new survey shows.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Be careful with plan approvals
The vast majority of house purchase agreements contain a clause stipulating that the seller warrants that all plans for the house have been approved.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Bantry Bay development due mid-2011
A new seven-storey residential development comprising 39 units is currently under construction in Cape Town's Bantry Bay.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Eiendomseienaars wag vir Wêreldbeker
Johannesburg. – Eienaars hou hul beleggingseiendomme leeg totdat buitelandse besoekers die land invloei vir die 2010 Wêreldbeker-sokkertoernooi, sê Seeff Eiendomme.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Huurders onder druk
Johannesburg. – Huurders en verhuurders moet voorberei vir Eskom se voorgestelde tariefverhogings in 2010, het die eiendomsbestuurmaatskappy Trafalgar Woensdag gesê.
5 November 2009Read More .....
Eiendomsfonds vul oorname-gaping
Die genoteerde-eiendomsarena het ’n nuwe speler bygekry wat diversifikasie aan eiendomsbeleggers bied.
3 November 2009Read More .....
‘Huispryse kan binne maand weer positief groei’
Huispryse was in Oktober ’n indrukwekkende 3,4% hoër as in September, maar steeds 1% laer as in Oktober verlede jaar.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Recoat your old furniture!
Get a high-end look for less with an easy-to-do gel stain process for wooden furniture.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Make some instant hot water
Hot water on demand for as long as you want – tankless gas water heating systems are a great way of lowering your monthly electricity bill.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Oct y/y average price deflation -1%
In October, year-on-year (y/y) average price deflation was -1%, significantly better than September's revised -3,6% rate of decline, according to the latest FNB House price index released on Monday.
3 November 2009Read More .....
The banks' new discrimination
There is very little doubt in my mind that South African society is as much divided today as it was 15, 50 or even a 150 years ago.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Sect. title insurance: Trustees' duties
Trustees are elected by the members of the body corporate to deal with matters of the body corporate i.e. control, manage and administer the affairs of the body corporate.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Don't sign your rights away
Homebuyers should carefully read the mortgage clause on their offer to purchase (OTP) or agreement-of-sale documents to make sure they know what they are letting themselves in for.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Standard Bank: Huispryse daal
Johannesburg. – Mediaan-huispryse het in Oktober met 4,6% gedaal, maar is ietwat beter as die afnames van Augustus en September, volgens die jongste huisprysindeks van Standard Bank wat Dinsdag uitgereik is.
3 November 2009Read More .....
Huishoudings nog onder druk
Johannesburg. – Die finansiële posisie van huishoudings het relatief kwesbaar gebly met beide finansiële bates en netto welvaart van huishoudings wat die inkrimping volhou wat in die derde kwartaal van 2008 begin het, het die Suid-Afrikaanse Reserw
3 November 2009Read More .....
These Hout Bay ranges, estates selling
Houses in the price range between R1,5m and R4m are becoming increasingly popular in Cape Town's Hout Bay.
4 November 2009Read More .....
Women in property making their mark
There are some truly exceptional South African women who are making a real difference in the commercial property world, and it's not for the faint hearted.
2 November 2009Read More .....
Firm to buy R775m property portfolio
Property loan stock company Vukile (VKE) on Tuesday announced that it had concluded agreements with the Sanlam group (SLM) to acquire a portfolio of 13 commercial properties for R775m.
2 November 2009Read More .....
‘Huisprysdeflasie se einde in sig’
Johannesburg. – Deflasie in huispryse jaar-tot-jaar is nou byna iets van die verlede, het Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB) Maandag gesê.
2 November 2009Read More .....
Relaxed banking criteria boosts home loan approvals
The loosened banking criteria has opened the gate to new home buyers.
2 November 2009Read More .....
Luxury CT project to launch in 2010
A luxury 91-unit residential development is set to be launched at Cape Town's Century City during March next year.
3 November 2009Read More .....
The A, B, C of painting
Have you ever really noticed the specific factors that make a building look unkempt?
3 November 2009Read More .....
Keep it healthy at home
A home gym offers an exceptionally convenient and time-saving way of staying fit. By Antonella Dési
3 November 2009Read More .....
Top end rentals still popular
The high levels of activity recorded at the top end of the winter rental market have continued into spring.
30 October 2009Read More .....
Mortgage advances growth still slowing
Mortgage advances growth by monetary institutions tapered off to 4,8% year-on-year (y/y) in September 2009 (5,6% y/y in August), which was the lowest growth rate since February 2000.
30 October 2009Read More .....
Turn your bad habits into property profits
More ways to turn hard-earned rands into bumper real estate returns.
30 October 2009Read More .....
Greening your home: Info and tips
Greening your home environment doesn't only contribute to the health of the planet, it also holds benefits for you and your family.
30 October 2009Read More .....
Nelspruit mall to open in April 2010
The new R600m I'Langa Mall in Nelspruit, an upmarket regional shopping centre situated off the N4 highway, is set to open in April 2010.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Fresnaye home on market at R32m!
A 706sqm home in Cape Town's Fresnaye has come on to the market at a whopping R32m.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Why green building is good and growing
Thirty to 40 percent of all energy produced is from buildings.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Insurance shock looms for coastal property owners
Escalating insurance costs for some oceanfront homes, others will be "uninsurable"
29 October 2009Read More .....
Residensiële huurbetalings hoër
’n Verdere verbetering in huurbetalings is in die derde kwartaal vanjaar ervaar vergeleke met die vorige kwartaal.
28 October 2009Read More .....
Shedding light on solar geysers
With the sky-rocketing electricity costs in mind, Antonella Dési explores the benefits of investing in a solar powered geysers.
28 October 2009Read More .....
Average rental price up 11,5% in '09
The average property rental price has increased by 11,5% over the past 12 months, according to the latest TPN Rental Payment Monitor.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Tshwane Metro activity rises sharply
The Third Quarter Tshwane Metro FNB Residential Property Barometer pointed to a sizeable jump in activity levels in the region during the third quarter, after a very mild recovery since the third quarter of last year, said FNB on Tuesday.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Hout Bay property rocks
Top agent reckons coastal enclave is set for a value boost.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Property levies are tax-exempt
But other income received by bodies corporate, share block companies subject to R50 000 limit.
29 October 2009Read More .....
Read that Title Deed and beware of shysters
How the ignorant get duped by town planners and other property industry professionals
29 October 2009Read More .....
Built-in cupboards
With space being at a premium in many modern developments and for the ultimate in clutter management, built-in cupboards are a great long-term investment.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Leisure property still troubled
Leisure property is still experiencing difficult conditions, Absa said on Monday.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Appointing a competent conveyancer is key
The claim that all attorneys are au fé with conveyancing law is simply not true.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Koop is nou beter as bou, sê eiendomsontleder
Suid-Afrikaners wat ’n erf wil koop om ’n nuwe huis daarop te bou, gaan kwaai opdok vir die voorreg om in ’n nuwe huis te woon.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Woestynland kry groen-geboue
Johannesburg. – Die aarde word al hoe warmer en die afgelope agt jaar was van die warmste jare tot dusver.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Opkomende kontrakteurs kry groot kontrak
Pretoria. – Die Oos-Kaapse departement van behuising het die bou van regeringshuise ter waarde van R24 miljoen aan opkomende kontrakteurs toegeken, het ’n beampte Dinsdag gesê.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Demand for stadium views in Durban
Durban's property market around the new Moses Mabhida Stadium is showing signs of "revived optimism" in anticipation of the 2010 Soccer World Cup.
28 October 2009Read More .....
SA's residential landlords: What they own, how they're coping
Either you're a 10 properties' person, or you own 200 - 300 in your portfolio.
28 October 2009Read More .....
SA property prices vs the world
What does R1.3m get you? Why Lew Geffen's wrong.
26 October 2009Read More .....
See-huise se pryse daal steeds
Johannesburg. - Eiendom vir ontspanning is steeds in ’n moeilike ekonomiese omgewing, het Absa Maandag gesê.
26 October 2009Read More .....
Knysna property market picking up
As the Knysna property market gears up for the holiday season there are hopeful signs of improvement and buyers can still find good value for money.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Heritage site on auction 19/11
Savile Row Auctions announced that its inaugural Cape Town auction will to be held on 19 November at The Grand Westin Foreshore in Cape Town.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Cape retire village starts phase 2
With the completion of the first development phase, Schonenberg Retirement Village in Somerset West is launching its second phase of construction.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Chef's CT home under hammer 6/11
The final hammer will fall on debt-ridden Irish celebrity-chef Conrad Gallagher, when his last asset in South Africa, a Cape Town designer home goes on auction in early November.
27 October 2009Read More .....
Huisverbande blý strop om verbruiker-nek
Johannesburg. – Terugbetalings op huisverbande – die grootste uitgawe vir die meeste verbruikers – is tans 26,8% laer as in Desember verlede jaar, maar tog is verbruikers steeds onder druk om hul skuld te betaal.
26 October 2009Read More .....
DEVELOPMENT FEATURE: A mix of village charm and city
UNIQUELY planned and designed to meet the luxury lifestyle needs for the discerning mature market, a new 250-unit project, Knysna Lifestyle Estate, is being developed in a prime location overlooking the Knysna Lagoon.
26 October 2009Read More .....
LIFESTYLE FEATURE: A pledge to the environment
NOT many golf estates can boast a commitment to going green, especially not one that puts them on par with the green initiatives of retail power houses such as Nedbank and Woolworths.
26 October 2009Read More .....
DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHT: Exclusively tranquil
HOUSE and garden effortlessly unite to create a sanctuary for the homeowner in a new development in Hyde Park called Broadlands on Fourth.
26 October 2009Read More .....
DÉCOR & DESIGN — Glass: Nature’s elegant bounty
THERE is elegance about glass that we don’t only see but an elegance that we also feel. Whether you’re enjoying silver service and fine dining or simply having breakfast on a blanket in your garden, the presence of glass effortlessly adds an understated
26 October 2009Read More .....
DÉCOR & DESIGN — Profile: Mark Brunetz cleans house
HIT reality TV show Clean House features families who have become overwhelmed by the clutter in their lives to the extent that it has become a metaphor for the disorder in their lives. Their only hope for salvation comes in the form of saucy straight-tal
26 October 2009Read More .....
Let the sun shine down
Using solar power in the home is not the sole domain of the geyser, but can also be used for a number of gadgets as well. Antonella Dési explores some of the more novel solar powered inventions available on the international market.
23 October 2009Read More .....
Nelspruit retirement estate on show
The first show houses in Bateleur Estate, a retirement development just outside Nelspruit, are attracting interest even while they are being completed.
23 October 2009Read More .....
A second property: Why you should buy one
Shhh! Don't tell the tax expert how you make big money in residential real estate
23 October 2009Read More .....
First luxury cars, now luxury properties
SA police commissioner gets a R3,3m house - politician outrage
26 October 2009Read More .....
South Africa vs Zimbabwe real estate
Local looks undervalued, so why aren't we more optimistic?
22 October 2009Read More .....
Selling sectional title property
The implementation of the Municipal Property Rates Act 6 of 2004 is making sectional title property ownership far more difficult and less satisfactory, says Tony Clarke, MD of Rawson Properties.
23 October 2009Read More .....
Municipalities overspend on budgets
Municipalities are showing a "poor" ability to accurately plan and spend their budgets, a report on the state of local government in South Africa revealed on Wednesday.
23 October 2009Read More .....
CT residential project 60% sold
Construction is now well underway on a trendy new residential development in Cape Town's Woodstock.
21 October 2009Read More .....
Kaapstad wil geboue se energie beter benut
Kaapstad is ernstig oor energie-doeltreffendheid.
20 October 2009Read More .....
Upswing in residential property sales no myth
Buoyed by the bank's willingness to give 100% loans.
20 October 2009Read More .....
Nasty surprise for sectional title property investors
Beware -big, ugly rates bill is in the post, discovers Leoni Kok
20 October 2009Read More .....
Ruminating on the real power shock
Having spent a good part of last year giving us rolling blackouts across South Africa, Eskom has now decided to replace these with rolling price increases instead.
20 October 2009Read More .....
Bond approvals surge
South Africa's biggest bond origination company, ooba, has seen a 55% increase in the value of approved loans from April to September this year.
20 October 2009Read More .....
Calculate your bond and other costs
Wouldn't it be wonderful to know by how much you need to increase your monthly instalment to save on the down payment of your home loan?
21 October 2009Read More .....
Doctor bags more than 500 properties
Bargain-hunters clean up at SA's biggest ever residential auction.
21 October 2009Read More .....
Who's buying in Hout Bay?
Seventy percent of the inquiries about Hout Bay come from foreigners and Gauteng.
19 October 2009Read More .....
Save that shelf!
Thought of shelving that dirty and ugly old shelf? Don't! Give it a cool makeover.
19 October 2009Read More .....
VAT decision good for these schemes
The annual threshold for VAT was increased from R300k to R1m for "taxable supplies" on 1 March 2009.
19 October 2009Read More .....
Sharp rise in fraudulent loans
Banks and attorneys alike have experienced a drastic increase in fraudulent home loan applications in the last year.
19 October 2009Read More .....
Save on electricity
We are on the brink of a possible electricity price hike – in this four-part series, Antonella Dési will be exploring ways in which we can cut down on our electricity usage in order to afford these new rates.
19 October 2009Read More .....
400 new black estate agents for SA
Bank, Estate Agency Affairs Board, French govt join the cause of industry's racial transformation
20 October 2009Read More .....
Slash property bills: Change VAT status
Deregister your residential home owners' association - expert
20 October 2009Read More .....
"I'm feeling bullish": Absa home loan boss
Mortgage figures surge; real estate heavyweights say 2010 will be good property year.
20 October 2009Read More .....
"Keep your money in SA property"
High-end properties for much less than you pay in Sydney, New York, Malibu
20 October 2009Read More .....
Cape's Helderberg: Prices and more
Buyers in the Cape Peninsula's Helderberg area can find homes at anything from R250k to R22m.
16 October 2009Read More .....
250-unit Knysna project being built
A new 250-unit lifestyle estate is currently being developed in Knysna.
16 October 2009Read More .....
Sect. title: Collecting levies
All owners of sectional units are obliged to pay validly raised general and special levies to their bodies corporate.
16 October 2009Read More .....
Act amendment to reduce use of trusts
The recent promulgation of an amendment to the Estate Duty Act which will come into force from 1st January 2010 will be yet another step in the process of reducing the artificial use of trusts in estate planning.
16 October 2009Read More .....
NCA still stymieing lending
The banks' new willingness to lend money for residential property is giving a noticeable boost to the market and is beginning to reinstate the banks' image.
16 October 2009Read More .....
Property investments for strong stomachs, deep wallets
"Free" rent for 2-5 years, no capital growth for 5 years: offshore warnings for South Africans.
20 October 2009Read More .....
Outdoor tiling: What are my options?
Tiles are ideal for outdoor living areas, but what are the available options?
15 October 2009Read More .....
Cross T's and dot I's with offer
Those who plan to buy a home should very definitely not wait until they make their final choice before getting their documentation in order.
15 October 2009Read More .....
Garden: Shaping the shade
For a lot of us, the dark damp spot in the garden under a tree or alongside a wall is an eyesore and an area that is generally ignored. This is the ideal spot to plant a colourful and lush shade garden.
15 October 2009Read More .....
Cheapies "the best" buy-to-rent investments
Look in less affluent areas for better returns
15 October 2009Read More .....
Beware of offshore property bargains - SA property man
Pitfalls of investing in international residential real estate.
15 October 2009Read More .....
Upswing a reality, but . . .
For some two months now sales of residential properties in the Cape Peninsula – and, indeed, the whole Greater Cape Town area – have shown an unmistakable upward trend.
16 October 2009Read More .....
CT apartment block on market at R10,5m
A small apartment block on Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard has come on to the market at R10,5m.
15 October 2009Read More .....
Groenbou in Gauteng kry momentum
Werk aan twee van die land se grootste groenontwikkelings kry momentum.
13 October 2009Read More .....
Western Cape set to be SA's property star
Buy in Cape Town; you won't be sorry - estate agency boss.
13 October 2009Read More .....
Property prices are going up, says big originator
Deals show house prices rising, fourth month in a row
12 October 2009Read More .....
Property South Africa's best performer
Listed property beats equities, should produce higher income than cash, bonds.
12 October 2009Read More .....
Huispryse styg
Johannesburg. – Die oobarometer vir September wys dat huispryse jaar-tot-jaar met 1,8% gestyg het, het ooba Maandag gesê.
12 October 2009Read More .....
Decorate it the natural way
Antonella Dési explores the latest international nature-inspired décor trends and selected a few interesting design concepts that will leave you feeling that you can't see the wood for the trees…
12 October 2009Read More .....
Interior Decoration for Dummies
Want to revamp your house, but don’t have the moola? Here are 5 ways to upgrade your home on the teeniest budget.
12 October 2009Read More .....
Gardening the mosaic way
Turn bits and pieces of broken china and tile into unique garden ornaments.
13 October 2009Read More .....
Sept house prices up 1,8% y/y: ooba
The September oobarometer price index recorded a year-on-year (y/y) increase in house prices of 1,8%, mortgage originator ooba said on Monday.
13 October 2009Read More .....
Property conman exposed!
"Conmen are always well-mannered and plausible. It is always with a slight regret that one feels compelled to hand them over to the police."
13 October 2009Read More .....
Property tax amnesty: Stings in the tail
Beware: SARS will let you switch out of trust, CC for free, but banks won't.
13 October 2009Read More .....
Finishing off the bathroom
When it comes to bathroom finishes, there is an incredibly wide variety of choices to choose from. Here are some tips on the pros and cons of some of the more popular finishes:
9 October 2009Read More .....
Stresverkope op veilings neem af
Die persentasie huise wat onder druk op veilings verkoop word, het beduidend afgeplat in die derde kwartaal van vanjaar.
9 October 2009Read More .....
Sandton-woning ‘kyk’ tot in Pretoria
Die duurste eiendom in Johannesburg, waarvandaan die Voortrekker-monument in Pretoria op ’n helder dag gesien kan word, is die superluukse dakwoonstel heel bo-op die Michelangelo Towers-ontwikkeling van 34 verdiepings in Sandton.
9 October 2009Read More .....
Venster wyer om huis op eie naam te plaas
Die venstertydperk vir mense wat hul woonhuise belastingvry uit beslote korporasies, maatskappye en trusts op hul name wil oordra, is terugwerkend verleng.
9 October 2009Read More .....
Coastal areas to recover first
Housing markets of coastal cities are likely to bounce back sooner than that of their inland counterparts, latest data from industry players suggest.
12 October 2009Read More .....
Sect. title: Comply before you alter
As the owner of a unit in a sectional title scheme you are subject to more restrictions than you would be if you were the owner of a freehold property.
12 October 2009Read More .....
Cape Metro res activity shoots up
The Third Quarter Cape Metro FNB Residential Property Barometer pointed to a significant jump in activity levels in the region, after a very weak second quarter level, FNB said on Wednesday.
8 October 2009Read More .....
Treading into rug(ged) territory
Using decorative rugs over your main floor is a simple and effective way of introducing colour and pattern into a room.
8 October 2009Read More .....
Buy, sell in style with these tips
Buying a home is probably the single biggest investment that a person will make in their private capacity.
8 October 2009Read More .....
Estate agents: A dying breed?
Survey shows high commissions, poor service rankle. Time to sell property ourselves?
8 October 2009Read More .....
‘Huipryse gaan weer styg’
Johannesburg. – Huispryse gaan binnekort weer begin styg, het Absa Woensdag gesê.
8 October 2009Read More .....
Universiteit bou groen in Oos-Londen
Die Universiteit van Fort Hare gaan sy Oos-Londen-kampus uitbrei met die oprigting van ’n nuwe groen-gebou.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Bouwerk by Century City vorder uitstekend
Dit gaan voor die wind met die bouwerk by Century City – die grootste ontwikkeling in die Wes-Kaap sedert die Canal Walk-winkelsentrum in 2000 opgerig is.
6 October 2009Read More .....
‘Nuwe’ Oyster Box groen met energie
Een van Suid-Afrika se historiese pêrels, die Oyster Box-hotel in Umhlanga aan die noordkus van KwaZulu-Natal, het ná twee jaar se omvattende opgradering en restourasie weer sy deure op 1 Oktober geopen.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Kuseiendom is superduur
Ek sou kon doen met ’n honderd miljoen, is die nuwe eiendomsdeuntjie in die Wes-Kaap.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Groter vertroue ligpunt in barometer
Die vraag in die huismark het in die derde kwartaal vaart gekry, maar die risiko in dié sektor bly hoog.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Large residential auction on 20 Oct
Altogether 611 residential properties will go under the gavel at a single auction in October.
6 October 2009Read More .....
CT home has R100m price tag
A modern home on Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard has come on to the market at a price of R100m.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Mahatma Gandhi's old house sold
The buyer intends to preserve the house as a heritage property.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Joburg's property market recovers slower than the rest
More than four months to sell a property, but things are perking up
6 October 2009Read More .....
Dié wetgewing dalk eers in 2010
Johannesburg. – ’n Wysiging aan belastingwetgewing rakende mense wie se primêre residensiële eiendom deur ’n maatskappy of ’n trust besit word, gaan waarskynlik eers vroeg in 2010 gepromulgeer word.
6 October 2009Read More .....
Get some roof maintenance tips
Generally, people don't think about roof maintenance until a massive leak appears while they are away on holiday in Barbados escaping the rainy season back home.
5 October 2009Read More .....
Residential demand picking up
The Third Quarter FNB Residential Property Barometer saw estimated demand activity levels starting to accelerate at a more rapid pace compared with the mild recovery of the preceding three quarters, FNB said on Monday.
5 October 2009Read More .....
Get some second-hand style
There are many cool benefits in buying second-hand furniture.
5 October 2009Read More .....
2010 property profits: Should you dump your tenant?
Saving space for soccer world cup customers: pros, cons
5 October 2009Read More .....
Hoë waardasies, eiendomstaks ontneem armes van dak oor kop
Pretoria. - Die verhoogde munisipale eiendomsbelasting is onbekostigbaar en dryf mense uit hul huise uit.
5 October 2009Read More .....
Huispryse en verkope bou weer stoom op
Johannesburg. - Goeie nuus vir die huismark stroom uit alle oorde in.
5 October 2009Read More .....
Highest price ever seen in Langebaan
A home in Langebaan has been put on the market for the highest price this West Coast town has ever seen.
2 October 2009Read More .....
Mauritius-eiendom is gesog onder SA kopers
Suid-Afrikaners koop toenemend eiendom in Mauritius en beleggers het ingeklim in die nuwe La Balise Marina-ontwikkeling op die eiland.
2 October 2009Read More .....
Weaving the colour of life
Tips and ideas from Zollanvari's Persian carpet experts on how to properly look after your Persian carpet.
5 October 2009Read More .....
Bad reasons not to buy property
Why you should ignore residential real estate sceptics
5 October 2009Read More .....
Property deals: The devil is in the detail
Finding a buyer the easy part of an agent's job
5 October 2009Read More .....
Nedbank staan óók nou 100%-huislenings toe
Huislenings van 100% is nou deur die bank beskikbaar.
1 October 2009Read More .....
Bye-bye falling house prices
FNB's latest property data shows big improvement.
1 October 2009Read More .....
"No spark in house prices"
Standard Bank's property book looks less rosy than FNB's, Nedbank's
1 October 2009Read More .....
Huismark messel krake toe
Johannesburg. – Die verlagings in rentekoerse wat in Desember 2008 begin het, is besig om ’n invloed op huispryse te hê, sê Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB).
1 October 2009Read More .....
House price decline diminishes at steady pace
THE FNB House Price Index's year-on-year decline continued to diminish at a steady pace, and it looks likely that year-on-year price increases will resume in the next few months, according to the latest FNB House price index released today.
1 October 2009Read More .....
Renting to film crews a viable option
While investors in luxury apartments and villas in South Africa have their eyes firmly fixed on the rental bonanza that the 2010 FIFA World Cup is likely to bring, they also need to consider ways to attract sustainable rental options both before and afte
1 October 2009Read More .....
Glam up your decor
Luxurious fabrics, sparkly accessories and reflective surfaces can create a space that is nothing short of glamorous!
1 October 2009Read More .....
Famous outdoor designer visits SA
World-renowned designer Kenneth Cobonpue visited South Africa in September to immerse himself in the local outdoor lifestyle.
1 October 2009Read More .....
R Bay: Development boosts rentals
Long-term development planned for Richards Bay harbour – which will include additional handling and berthing facilities – is expected to affect the demand for housing in the area and is already boosting rentals.
1 October 2009Read More .....
Prices likely to start rising
It looks likely that a year-on-year (y/y) property price increase will resume in the next few months, the latest FNB House Price Index showed on Thursday.
1 October 2009Read More .....
Median house price down 5,2%
The September smoothed data for median house prices yielded a rate of contraction of 5,2% y/y, the same decline as in August, according to the latest Standard Bank House Price house price index released on Thursday.
2 October 2009Read More .....
(Inter)netting the property market
The Internet is radically transforming the property market.
30 September 2009Read More .....
Spruce up your child's room
Mothers know that filling a little one's world with plenty of love, colour and fun is all-important and that the room where they are kissed goodnight, told a bedtime story or wake up to a bright new day is the one they'll probably remember for the rest o
30 September 2009Read More .....
Buying? Beware the details
In the current market, most home sellers are still focused on getting any offer to purchase that is reasonably close to their asking price.
30 September 2009Read More .....
Bumper winter sales for Atlantic Seaboard
Prime stretch of Cape real estate reaches R200m in property sales, despite recession - Dogon.
30 September 2009Read More .....
Voornemende huiskopers soek toenemend op web
Die internet is besig om die huismark radikaal te verander.
30 September 2009Read More .....
Buying from non-residents: Tax issues
Anyone buying property from a non-South African resident should be aware that they must withhold tax from the proceeds of that sale as of 1 September this year.
1 October 2009Read More .....
Nedbank offers 100% mortgages
Another bank relaxes lending for property buyers as market brightens.
1 October 2009Read More .....
Veesa wil lede bewus maak van energiesake
In ’n poging om sy lede by te staan om meer energie-doeltreffend te raak, onderneem die Vereniging van Eiendomseienaars van Suid-Afrika (Veesa) ’n nasionale bewusmakingsveldtog.
29 September 2009Read More .....
Huispryse styg vir vyfde maand
Huispryse het in Mei vir die vyfde opeenvolgende maand gestyg, ’n teken dat die huismark uit die moeras opstaan.
29 September 2009Read More .....
Alternative technology the answer?
As more than 2,2m families in South Africa live in informal settlements with no proper ablution services or running water, a large number of our government departments and persons in leadership positions within the government continue to neglect explorin
29 September 2009Read More .....
Constantia sales up in this range
Sales activity in Cape Town's plush Constantia suburb is gradually starting to pick up with the R4m to R7m range drawing the most interest.
29 September 2009Read More .....
Building method enhances speed, costs
Aspiring homebuilders can now build homes faster and cheaper.
29 September 2009Read More .....
Make the best property purchase possible
Essential home buying tips.
29 September 2009Read More .....
House prices show gradual improvement
Lightstone's repeat sales annual national house price inflation, based on Deeds Office transactions, continued on its upward trend, reaching -1,1% in May 2009, after bottoming at its lowest level of -3,1% in January 2009.
30 September 2009Read More .....
Remake your kitchen, cheap-cheap!
Still stuck in a tiny kitchen with no room to move? This article shows what a difference some small changes can do to improve your kitchen space and open up a small apartment.
28 September 2009Read More .....
Local buys luxury Sandton unit
A South African buyer recently paid several million rand for an über-luxurious roof unit in the new Legacy Corner development, one of the best residential addresses in Sandton.
28 September 2009Read More .....
Got no lease? Here are the landlord's rights
And the tenant's obligations - expert.
28 September 2009Read More .....
Property values: "magic" vs "maths"
Auras, atmosphere, charm: more to property valuation than the numbers?
28 September 2009Read More .....
Cape Town property market is recovering - top agency
Inside Pam Golding Property group: what's selling, where rentals are heading
28 September 2009Read More .....
Renovating is in again
With the current strict stance of banks towards mortgage financing, many buyers have found they need to reconsider their options when purchasing property.
28 September 2009Read More .....
Cape Town's east side lights up
The East City precinct, which has lagged behind other parts of Cape Town in terms of investment and development, has been enjoying renewed interest in recent years.
28 September 2009Read More .....
Property prices: Good news pours in
More signs residential real estate market is turning.
29 September 2009Read More .....
Luxury sells in George
Luxury homes in George are starting to draw an increasing amount of interest.
25 September 2009Read More .....
Working to create your home office
Working form home offers many business advantages, including low overheads, income tax reductions and cutting out the hassle and expense of having to commute to and from the office. It is no wonder then that so many small business owners choose to operat
25 September 2009Read More .....
Bond and rental arrearages rising
There has been an increase from 2% to 7% over the past four years of bondholders that are three months or more in arrears.
25 September 2009Read More .....
Construction: Safety is your problem
According to construction regulations, it is the responsibility of property owners to ensure that any contractor working on site complies with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
25 September 2009Read More .....
Clifton property owners vs greedy developer
Row over R1m visitors' bays hits High Court
25 September 2009Read More .....
Catching the next property wave
Won't be long before prices climb; what Tito's returned to our wallets.
25 September 2009Read More .....
CAPE NEWS: Seaside homes still in demand
AIRS AND GRACES: This beautiful Bantry Bay house was recently sold for R25m by Dogon Group Properties.
25 September 2009Read More .....
SHOWCASE: Opt for secure estate living
MOOIKLOOF Equestrian Estate, situated in Pretoria, consists of 548 stands that measure between 1ha and 1,4ha each and houses a range of facilities including a multidenominational chapel, an equestrian centre, tennis courts, bowling greens, a clubhouse an
25 September 2009Read More .....
MONEY MASTER: Make the most from your resale
THE property market is one that has seen highs and lows over the past three years due to the global economic pressures in the market.
25 September 2009Read More .....
DÉCOR & DESIGN – Wallpaper: Paper perfect
IF THE idea of wallpapering your home has you picturing the floral eyesore your granny used to decorate her parlor, which required you to have shades about you at all times. Think again. Wallpaper has seen a remarkable transformation, one of epic sophist
25 September 2009Read More .....
Weelde-eenhede in Sandton opgeraap
’n Superluukse dakeenheid in die nuwe Legacy Corner-ontwikkeling, een van die beste woonadresse in Sandton, is onlangs vir etlike miljoene deur ’n Suid-Afrikaanse koper opgeraap.
25 September 2009Read More .....
Avoid disputes on Offer to Purchase
Homebuyers should not recklessly sign an Offer to Purchase (OTP) agreement without being sure they can meet the associated financial commitments.
25 September 2009Read More .....
"We deserve every cent" - estate agent
Why residential property sales' commissions are not far off 10%.
22 September 2009Read More .....
Constantia apartment living
Citadel Constantiaberg, a seven-storey block of 91 luxury apartments, offers a rare opportunity for high-rise living in the heart of the Southern Suburbs.
22 September 2009Read More .....
Interest rate remains unchanged
Hesitant home buyers should now enter the market following the SA Reserve Bank (SARB) announcement on Tuesday that the key repo rate had been left unchanged at seven percent.
23 September 2009Read More .....
‘Tyd om huismark te betree’
Johannesburg. – Potensiële huiskopers wat daaroor tob of hulle die huismark moet betree, moet nou die stap doen ná die Reserwebank se besluit Dinsdag om die repo-koers onveranderd te laat, sê Colliers Residential, berig Sapa.
23 September 2009Read More .....
Outlining the Rental Housing Act
Property owners renting residential property to tenants should note that there is a National Rental Housing Act, the legalities of which must be noted when drawing up a lease and dealing with tenants during a lease period.
22 September 2009Read More .....
Tenants should opt for longer leases
In the property sector, the new municipal workers' wage scales will inevitably result in big increases in the rates, taxes and service costs.
22 September 2009Read More .....
Slamming the slums
I'm sick of all the excuses we make for people in South Africa.
22 September 2009Read More .....
Fort Hare goes bigger and greener
The Eastern Cape's University of Fort Hare is extending its East London campus.
22 September 2009Read More .....
What is donations tax on property?
Donations tax becomes applicable when the donor donates an immovable property to a donee.
22 September 2009Read More .....
Bathroom décor on a budget
Janice Anderssen shows us just how easy it is to add practical stuff to your bathroom without forking out a fortune.
22 September 2009Read More .....
SA's big new real estate hope
Redefine's share price set to benefit from global index debut - analysts.
21 September 2009Read More .....
Habitat, Nedbank vat hande met bou van huis
In ’n poging om ’n bydrae te lewer tot die land se enorme agterstand in huisvesting het Nedbank se huisleningsafdeling hande gevat met Habitat for Humanity Suid-Afrika om ’n huis te bou vir ’n gesin in Ivory Park in Johannesburg.
18 September 2009Read More .....
Goue jare gee ook goue geleentheid
Die vraag na luukse aftree-oorde neem wêreldwyd toe en Suid-Afrika is geen uitsondering nie.
18 September 2009Read More .....
Be careful when cancelling bond
What are a seller's rights when cancelling a bond and what are the rules surrounding this process?
18 September 2009Read More .....
Splash into summer with a clean pool
Warmer weather not only means we can start swimming again, but also encourages the growth of algae.
18 September 2009Read More .....
Some homes sell because of aura
Professional property valuers can be invaluable in establishing the correct price of a home for sale – but there are instances in which they cannot capture the real value of a home because they have no way of pricing appeal, charm and the "intangible mag
21 September 2009Read More .....
Property market indicators turn positive
Many different indicators are pointing upwards for the property market, suggesting that the worst may really be over.
21 September 2009Read More .....
Mortgage originators: Why we still need them
Should we allow banks to wean us off home loan consultants?
21 September 2009Read More .....
New insurance to cover property deposits
Residential tenants pay 35%, insurance guarantees the rest.
17 September 2009Read More .....
No winter chill for Chas Everitt Helderberg
There may be more cold fronts coming, but the team at the Chas Everitt Helderberg office already has spring fever following a record month in July in which they notched up home sales worth more than R32m.
17 September 2009Read More .....
Green and effective pest control
Pests cause damage and are also a health hazard. Getting rid of them is tricky, but an eco-friendly pest control solution makes it easier.
17 September 2009Read More .....
Tips to handle the market's ups, downs
The property market is one that has seen highs and lows over the past three years due to the global economic pressures in the market.
18 September 2009Read More .....
Bathroom basin trends
Bathroom basins are certainly very practical pieces of sanitary ware, but they are also evolving into aesthetically beautiful works of art.
16 September 2009Read More .....
Which tax is applicable to property?
Tax is an unavoidable part of buying a property and either transfer duty or VAT is payable on every transfer.
16 September 2009Read More .....
Profitable property flips: How to do them
10 tips for successful property speculation.
16 September 2009Read More .....
Buyer, beware of 'voetstoots'
A recent Supreme Court judgment has once again underlined the risks involved in buying a property voetstoots, or "as is".
17 September 2009Read More .....
Fit a funky floor
15 September 2009Read More .....
The pros, cons of buying bank repos
Great buying opportunities are now available to those who understand the banks' repossession of properties.
15 September 2009Read More .....
Host a cell tower and make some cash
Any property with an MTN/Vodacom transmission mast on it is always paid a substantial monthly rental – frequently more than R10k per month.
15 September 2009Read More .....
Global house prices: "worst is over"
World's best, worst property markets; where South Africa fits in.
15 September 2009Read More .....
Fake landlords, estate agents: Tenants beware
Con artists steal house-hunters' deposits - and more.
15 September 2009Read More .....
Groen lig vir groenstad naby Lanseria-lughawe
Een van die grootste groenontwikkelings in die land, Cradle City, het onlangs die groen lig van die stadsrade van Johannesburg en Mogale City gekry.
15 September 2009Read More .....
SA argitek se toring ’n eerste
Argitekte wat in Suid-Afrika opgelei is, hoef geensins terug te staan vir hul buitelandse eweknieë nie.
15 September 2009Read More .....
See van Wes-Randse huise soek baas
In een van die grootste eiendomsveilings nóg gaan rye en rye wooneenhede aan die Wes-Rand binnekort onder die hamer kom.
16 September 2009Read More .....
The future market will be different
This global recession has changed the way we will do business in future.
14 September 2009Read More .....
Are SA buyers paying too much?
Further evidence of the case for cutting SA home loan interest rates even further has emerged, notwithstanding the latest reductions.
14 September 2009Read More .....
What are we paying rates for?
Ratepayers in 280 municipalities around South Africa are paying their monthly bills to the local authority and yet that municipality cannot actually tell be people where or how their money has been spent.
14 September 2009Read More .....
How NCA affects juristic persons
After two years, since 1 June 2007, the full effect of the National Credit Act (NCA) is finally understood.
14 September 2009Read More .....
Do sums before adding to your home
Building on a flat or adding a cottage to an existing home has become an increasingly popular idea in recent times.
14 September 2009Read More .....
Bamboo your floor
Flooring is such an important part of any home and needs to be chosen with the utmost care as it is a salient design feature and takes a good foot beating.
14 September 2009Read More .....
Student lodging: What's the best?
At this time of the year parents usually ask whether they should plan to pay for "res" or other rented space, or decide to buy their own student flat or house.
14 September 2009Read More .....
Lolly's luxury home to go under hammer
SA's answer to Hugh Hefner puts his Bedfordview home on auction
14 September 2009Read More .....
Ál minder moet huise onder hamer verkoop
Veilings word nie meer oorstroom deur gedwonge verkope van huise soos vroeër vanjaar nie.
15 September 2009Read More .....
Recover that old chair!
I am sure that many of us have an old chair hidden away somewhere with a death sentence waiting to be passed.
11 September 2009Read More .....
Home loans still priced high
ABSA followed Standard Bank and FNB's lead this week by reducing its deposit requirements for homebuyers, but banks are not yet offering bigger concessions on the interest rate pricing of new mortgage loans.
11 September 2009Read More .....
The power of the owl
A new innovation will help consumers keep tabs on electricity consumption in the home.
11 September 2009Read More .....
Muizenberg eyesore sold to local investor
OUT WITH THE OLD Muizenberg local authorities and residents are delighted at the recent sale of the notorious green slum hotel located diagonally across the railway station at 176 Main Road, overlooking False Bay.
15 September 2009Read More .....
The big question is which property to buy
TIME WILL TELL The uncertain economic climate has prospective homebuyers and investors queuing for advice about the best investment opportunities. “The biggest question on buyers and investors’ minds today is what sort of property they should buy,” says
15 September 2009Read More .....
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT: No expense spared in this heavenly home
IN CERTAIN illustrious property circles some home owners may feel they are part of an exclusive club, but few exclusive property clubs rival those who call the prestigious suburb of Sandhurst in Gauteng their home.
15 September 2009Read More .....
LIFESTYLE FEATURE: Big Five appeal near Mossel Bay
The Safari Lodge at Gondwana, marketed fully furnished for R3,55m.
15 September 2009Read More .....
DÉCOR & DESIGN — Gardening: In favour of shady ladies
IT IS easy to forget that clivia are superb shade plants until they start flowering in September and become the stars of the spring garden.
15 September 2009Read More .....
SHOWCASE: Grand designs in Sandhurst
1 of 3 SANDHURST has been known as one of the most prestigious suburbs in SA , never mind Gauteng, but its property market does not seem to have had immunity from the effects of the recession.
18 September 2009Read More .....
Redesign your bathroom
The key to successfully redesigning the bathroom lies primarily in the planning stages and in the correct assessment of your particular problems.
10 September 2009Read More .....
Credit squeeze = saving = good!
Now that the credit crunch has closed the taps on the post-1994 national borrowing binge, South Africans are set to return once again to a culture of saving.
10 September 2009Read More .....
Transfer and bond costs demystified
Conveyancing attorneys play a vital role in the registration of every property transfer or bond, but their role is often misunderstood.
10 September 2009Read More .....
Answering some sect. title questions
Sectional title expert Jennifer Paddock answers a few thorny reader questions.
10 September 2009Read More .....
New SA auction record set
A new record has been set for the South African auction market.
11 September 2009Read More .....
Two houses from one
A large "fairly typical" Bergvliet home of the eighties on a ±1,277sqm erf was converted into two homes, both with over 200sqm of floor space.
11 September 2009Read More .....
Huispryse styg weer
Johannesburg. - Huispryse het vir die derde maand in ’n ry verbeter, het ooba Woensdag gesê.
9 September 2009Read More .....
New tribunal to solve landlord, tenant disputes
Govt will intervene in property troubles.
9 September 2009Read More .....
Camps Bay's mid-range still popular
There is still a high percentage of cash buyers in Camps Bay, with sustained interest in mid-range properties priced from around R7m to R15m.
10 September 2009Read More .....
Zille goes back to Zuma on housing
After her first meeting with President Jacob Zuma last week to talk about problems in housing delivery, Helen Zille the leader of the Democratic Alliance, will go back to see him and the planning minister Trevor Manuel next week.
10 September 2009Read More .....
The green race is on. . .
The race is on: Which will be the first Green Star SA rated building in South Africa?
10 September 2009Read More .....
Buying sect. title? Read this
Those wanting to buy into sectional title schemes should heed the following advice: Ask to see the financial report, which should be audited, and check that the body corporate is liquid.
8 September 2009Read More .....
Think tank coming on cheap housing
Government, the banking industry, property developers and funders of affordable housing are coming together next month to discuss pressing issues regarding the delivery of affordable housing in South Africa.
8 September 2009Read More .....
Now for the good news. . .
Homeowners are anxiously seeking signs that the property market downslide is levelling off.
8 September 2009Read More .....
Young and old buying in Killarney
Owners in Johannesburg's Killarney include retirees who have moved from large family homes to a more secure and compact environment, young professionals and renovators.
9 September 2009Read More .....
Is SA embracing 'green' homes?
A quick trawl of global Internet websites reveals that homes and buildings of the future are set to incorporate a variety of "green" or energy-saving features as a matter of course.
9 September 2009Read More .....
Mixed-use project to get Town Centre
Rama City, the new mixed-used development to the north west of Pretoria, will have at its heart a new Town Centre.
9 September 2009Read More .....
2010 property owners: "Don't be greedy" - Golding
Will Soccer World Cup be a bonanza? Analysis from a top estate agency
9 September 2009Read More .....
Ghost bidders, ghost property profits
Auctions, syndications: Often property deals are not what they seem.
9 September 2009Read More .....
Parys se huispryse bly bestendig
Ondanks die heersende negatiewe ekonomiese klimaat het die residensiële eiendomsmark op Parys bestendig gebly.
9 September 2009Read More .....
Student housing: The pros, cons
Investing in student accommodation is a hot topic right now as student numbers are swelling across the country.
10 September 2009Read More .....
PGP to launch 2010 rental service
Pam Golding Properties (PGP) is preparing to launch a dedicated rental service for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
10 September 2009Read More .....
Dbn North luxury sales improve
The average selling price across all northern Durban suburbs has increased by 25% up to R2m per property in 2009.
7 September 2009Read More .....
New SAPOA legal committee formed
The South African Property Owner's Association (SAPOA) legal committee has joined forces with the Association of Property Lawyers to form a new legal committee.
7 September 2009Read More .....
Brett Kebble mansion fetches R29m
The controversial Brett Kebble Mansion in Bishopscourt was auctioned recently and fetched R29m.
7 September 2009Read More .....
Need to overhaul your headboard?
This plain panelled headboard gets a dramatic new look with a very unique paint technique!
7 September 2009Read More .....
Resolving insurance excess disputes
A bone of contention, in many sectional title schemes, is the application of insurance excesses.
7 September 2009Read More .....
Don't shelve these ideas!
Shelves can be as decorative as the objects they are used to display, whether they be books, ornaments, toys, audio visual equipment, CDs and DVDs, or valuable antiques.
8 September 2009Read More .....
Absa verslap leningskriteria
Johannesburg. – Absa het Maandag aangekondig hy het sy uitleenvereistes aan lae inkomste-verdieners verlaag en verbandlenings van 110% is vir hulle beskikbaar. Absa het gesê hoewel die Suid-Afrikaanse ekonomie nog in ’n resessie is en rentekoerse reeds
9 September 2009Read More .....
Voornemende huiskopers moet gou mark betree
Huise begin weer duurder raak, dus moet voornemende huiskopers so gou moontlik in die huismark begin inklim.
4 September 2009Read More .....
Owner can't develop Cape Town's top land - legal blow
Religious rights trump "astronomical" property returns on Table Mountain slopes.
4 September 2009Read More .....
1st-time buyers want move-in homes
First-time buyers, although eager to get their foot in the property door, are less likely to consider houses that need a lot of maintenance work.
4 September 2009Read More .....
Phase 2 of CT project to be launched
Phase two of an eight phase security village in Kuilsriver is about to be launched.
4 September 2009Read More .....
How to maintain windows, doors
In the idyllic and well-organised world that all sectional title owners and managers live/work in, there should be plenty of time to complete inspections of all windows and exterior doors twice a year in both spring and autumn.
4 September 2009Read More .....
Sect. title: Get fair agreement
The Sectional Titles Act allows the Trustees to appoint and by implication unappoint managing agents when the need arises.
4 September 2009Read More .....
Poorer CT areas holding up
The property market in Cape Town's disadvantaged areas has held up fairly well in the current economic downturn.
4 September 2009Read More .....
SA's house prices have turned the corner
Fresh figures from Absa reinforce view "the worst is over"
3 September 2009Read More .....
6 signs your tenant will be troublesome
And ways property owners can avoid bad payers.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Sedgefield estate 80% sold
Perhaps indicative of the market in the area, an entry-level residential development near Sedgefield in the Southern Cape is now more than 80% sold out.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Here's some 2010 rental advice
Homes close to stadiums in good condition are most likely to be snapped up early by fans during the World Cup 2010.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Poor credit records spoil Pta sales
The majority of potential buyers in Pretoria are disqualified mostly because of poor credit records.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Ooba points to early recovery signs
Homeowner and financing specialist ooba on Wednesday pointed to signs of an early property market recovery, with definite signs that the slump was coming to an end.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Huispryse op groeipad
Johannesburg. – Huispryse het in Augustus vir die tweede agtereenvolgende maand positiewe groei getoon en daardeur die maandelikse dalings ’n nekslag toegedien, wys Absa se nuutste huisprysindeks.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Big companies offload non-performing properties
More buildings to be sold, with spotlight on Old Mutual.
4 September 2009Read More .....
Arrears still climbing
Banks may well be starting to open their credit lending taps again but the number of homeowners that are battling to meet monthly mortgage repayments continues to climb.
4 September 2009Read More .....
New record price for Grahamstown
A four-bedroom fetched the highest sales price ever achieved in Grahamstown.
4 September 2009Read More .....
August mid-house prices down 3,4%
Middle-segment house prices were down by 3,4% year-on-year (y/y) to around R933,300 in August 2009 (-3,7% y/y in July and -3,8% y/y in May after revision), according to the latest house price index released by Absa on Thursday.
4 September 2009Read More .....
Meer huislenings goedgekeur
Johannesburg. – Die afswaai in die huismark is op ’n einde en banke het sedert April vanjaar al hoe meer aansoeke om huislenings goedgekeur.
2 September 2009Read More .....
Leningsdroogte by banke geknak
Die huismark het gister ’n yslike inspuiting gekry met die nuus dat Standard Bank sy uitleenkriteria vir huislenings drasties gaan verslap.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Property insurance bills: who pays excess?
New law says it's the owner, not the body corporate
3 September 2009Read More .....
August house prices down 5.2% y/y
Smoothed growth in the Standard Bank median house price index decreased by a disappointing 5,2% y/y in August, averaging 3,9% y/y in the first eight months of the year, according to the latest Standard Bank House Price Index released on Tuesday.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Spring clean your lighting scheme
With warmer weather on the way, it's time to spring clean your lighting scheme and attitude to the environment.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Scottburgh holiday homes selling well
Around 70% of the sales in Scottburgh on Durban's South Coast are holiday homes.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Resolving sect. title insurance excess
A bone of contention, in many sectional title schemes, is the application of insurance excesses.
1 September 2009Read More .....
A little off the wall
A first for South Africa opens up new options for paint decoration for beautiful walls.
2 September 2009Read More .....
Banks start to favour low-end market
The recent initiative by FNB and ABSA, and more recently Standard Bank, to increase the credit flow to the lower end of the housing market will prove a very welcome boost to the property market.
2 September 2009Read More .....
Which CT areas will benefit from WC?
There is a widespread expectation in Cape Town that certain people will make a miraculously big killing on property sales at the time of the Soccer World Cup.
2 September 2009Read More .....
Price deflation steadily dropping
The FNB House Price Index's year-on-year (y/y) decline continued in August, but for the second successive month saw a diminishing price deflation rate, with the index starting to show clearer signs that the market is starting to stabilise, according to t
2 September 2009Read More .....
Good Greenpoint WC rentals expected
Opinions already vary widely as to whether the R3bn Greenpoint Stadium is an asset to the area or an oversized imposition on a precinct that has otherwise gained rapidly in charm and appeal recently.
2 September 2009Read More .....
Huismark op herstelpad
Johannesburg. – Die huismark het in Augustus verdere tekens van herstel getoon en kan teen die einde van vanjaar uit die daalfase wees.
2 September 2009Read More .....
More signs South Africa's housing market is recovering
FNB's latest stats show property market isn't quite as bad as it was.
2 September 2009Read More .....
Property won't get much cheaper
More signs of a house price recovery - bank stats
2 September 2009Read More .....
Standard Bank opens the credit gates
They're back! 104% home loans for R1m homes - and more.
3 September 2009Read More .....
Verbruikers kry skuldvries
Suid-Afrikaners het feitlik opgehou om skuld te maak.
9 September 2009Read More .....
Sweeping changes for Sectional Title owners
How proposed law changes affect developers, agents, bankers, investors
31 August 2009Read More .....
Home loans: business should perk up soon
Pain continues for mortgage originators, but should ease from January.
31 August 2009Read More .....
Stamp duty on leases disappears
Some people are not yet aware that stamp duty is no longer applicable to leases.
31 August 2009Read More .....
Tap your green energy with bathroom
There is a global move towards caring for the environment and conserving resources.
31 August 2009Read More .....
Govt warns shoddy housing contractors
Government has issued a stern warning to shoddy housing contractors who continue to build defective houses, saying that they could be struck off from the list and lose all contracts from the government.
31 August 2009Read More .....
Groei in verbandvoorskotte neem af
Johannesburg. – Die groei in verbandvoorskotte het in Julie verder verlangsaam, het mnr. Jacques du Toit, ’n senior eiendomsontleder van Absa, Maandag gesê.
1 September 2009Read More .....
Caster's family to get new house
The family of 800m track world champion Caster Semenya will soon be receiving a new house.
1 September 2009Read More .....
It's a sad state of affairs
A R5bn residential estate and harbour on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal has ground to a halt because alleged government inefficiencies prevented the land earmarked for this development being transferred to the developers.
1 September 2009Read More .....
Mount a cool media unit!
Take a look at the Muro Media Storage unit, an ingenious customisable flat panel TV and media centre solution with a price tag of almost R6k (US$650).
1 September 2009Read More .....
Growth in mortgage advances very low
Year-on-year (y/y) growth in mortgage advances by monetary institutions (the net outstanding balance on mortgage loans at these institutions) is at its lowest point since May 2000, the latest Absa House Price Index shows.
1 September 2009Read More .....
VSA-huismark begin herstel
Die VSA se nasionale huisprysindeks toon dat huispryse in dié land tekens van ’n ommekeer begin toon.
28 August 2009Read More .....
A second chance for spring
IT IS so easy to miss the boat when it comes to planting at the right time. Lovely spring gardens are best planted in April and May, so August, theoretically, is a bit late.
28 August 2009Read More .....
Fetching etchings
WHEN choosing to decorate your home with art, there are certain design tricks of the trade that can help to display your collection to its best advantage.
28 August 2009Read More .....
Factor attorney fees in sale equation
LEGAL fees are often a hidden cost that may come as a surprise to first-time buyers. But part of the service provided by the attorney is to draft the documents necessary in order for the transaction to be registered in the deeds office, obtain a rates cl
28 August 2009Read More .....
Buyers in hurry to tee off
COTSWOLD Downs is situated between Hillcrest and Waterfall in an area which has seen rapid growth over the past two years. Hillcrest is reputed to have one of the healthiest climates in the world and is well positioned as a major property growth area in
28 August 2009Read More .....
Affordable way to buy into winelands
IN THE heart of the Boland sits Wellington, a tranquil valley on the banks of the Kromme River, resting at the foot of the Groenberg Mountain.
28 August 2009Read More .....
Beware: Property developments are not bricks-and-mortar
If banks can't spot financial risks, what hope do we investors have?
28 August 2009Read More .....
Mixed-use project springs up in Dbn
The 48 ha Bridge City mixed-use, town centre development is starting to take shape in the north-west of Durban, just off the KwaMashu Highway adjacent to Phoenix Industrial Park.
28 August 2009Read More .....
Can 2 agents claim commission? Yes!
What happens when an agent produces an offer on a property that has recently been mandated to another agent?
28 August 2009Read More .....
Vast price differences in Hout Bay
Llandudno and Hout Bay residential stock is priced from R750k for a single-bedroom sectional title flat to R21m for a sea-facing Llandudno home.
28 August 2009Read More .....
CT nails land use violations
The City of Cape Town's Land Use Enforcement Policy, adopted by the Planning and Environmental Portfolio Committee (Pepco) and enforced since the beginning of the year, has resulted in hundreds of businesses being closed down due to land use violations.
28 August 2009Read More .....
WC stock levels hits a low
Stock levels in the Western Cape are now lower then they have been for 24 months and the homes on offer vary in price from R330k to R12,5m.
28 August 2009Read More .....
R31,5m Cape smallholding on market
A 6,000sqm smallholding in Stellenbosch has come onto the market at R31,5m.
28 August 2009Read More .....
Renting from or to a friend?
Whether you're a landlord or a tenant, you should always make sure your rental agreement is in writing – and this is doubly important if your agreement is with a friend or family member.
28 August 2009Read More .....
SAPOA launches new website
The South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) has a brand new website for members.
27 August 2009Read More .....
These properties selling in R Bay
Cheap is popular in Richards Bay with properties between R500k and R1m drawing the most buyer interest.
27 August 2009Read More .....
These sect. title units have benefits
If you live in sectional title, you will be aware that you have purchased your section and, an undivided share in the common property eg. corridors, lifts, swimming pool.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Tax dodgers boost property prices
World's tax havens are tops as global residential real estate improves.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Buying commercial property? Who's lending
The credit low-down from ‘big four' banks.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Estates: Uniformity protects values
There are many benefits to living in gated estates: Owners can enjoy living freely among their neighbours, additional security comes standard and lower monthly outlays are usually the norm.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Affordable sector continues to boom
Despite affordability being a key concern in the middle to upper echelons of the property market, with a definite decrease in sales activity, the same cannot be said of the affordable housing market.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Nigeria to get 3 new hotels
The hotel industry in Nigeria has just received a huge boost with the announcement of three new ones.
27 August 2009Read More .....
How to raise special levies
Here is a step-by-step guide to raise special levies in a sectional title scheme:
27 August 2009Read More .....
Retail slump dents group's income
Challenging retail conditions took their toll on SA Corporate Real Estate Fund's performance in the six months to June, with distributable income declining marginally down to R301m from R306m at the interim stage in 2008.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Some sellers still overpricing
The recession is still biting severely – but some property sellers persist in not accepting this reality.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Kebble mansion under hammer 4/9
Fair Seate, considered one of the country's most prestigious and exclusive residences, will go under the gavel in September.
26 August 2009Read More .....
How divorce can affect sale of home
House sales can become extremely complicated when they are the result of a divorce and two problems commonly occur.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Big upgrades coming to Mandela Bay
Three multi-million rand urban renewal projects that will soon be implemented in the Mandela Bay area in the Eastern Cape.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Informal housing shocks in report
Two-thirds of Cape Town's residents are now officially classified as poor and a staggering 40% are living in inadequate housing.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Nelson Mandela Bay to tackle housing
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has developed a housing turnaround strategy in an attempt to tackle its housing backlog.
27 August 2009Read More .....
Levy defaults cripple sectional title schemes
About 50% of owners owe levy payments - property manager.
26 August 2009Read More .....
"Banks, you're suffocating us"
Lambasted for killing real estate deals, knocking prices, damaging economy.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Residential property prices are perking up
So why don't we all feel cheerful?
26 August 2009Read More .....
Affordable Sandton complex launched
An affordable, upmarket apartment development with 180 units has been launched in Sandton.
26 August 2009Read More .....
30-somethings favour Midrand estates
Lifestyle estates in Midrand are recording solid sales thanks to sustained interest among established professional people.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Measure power use of every device
As of July 2009 everyone in South Africa is paying more per Kilowatt Hour for electricity.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Sect. title: Comply before you alter
As the owner of a unit in a sectional title scheme you are subject to more restrictions than you would be if you were the owner of a freehold property.
26 August 2009Read More .....
CT Central cooking despite recession
Robust local and foreign private investment projects in central Cape Town, coupled with public infrastructure development as the city gears up for 2010, indicate that large development projects still retain strong appeal despite the current risk-averse e
26 August 2009Read More .....
What your portfolio should include
Any property portfolio should be evenly balanced between commercial and residential stock.
26 August 2009Read More .....
Store more in your bathroom
If you are anything like me, you are always on the lookout for new ways to store more.
25 August 2009Read More .....
A curtain raiser for your house
Curtains can add a wealth of difference to a room, whatever their colour or design. In the warm summer months, lightweight curtains or semi-sheers look cool and fresh, while heavy drapes add a touch of warmth and comfort during the chillier winter months
25 August 2009Read More .....
Tshwane property demand rises mildly
The Second Quarter Tshwane region FNB Residential Property Barometer released on Thursday pointed to an increase in activity levels in the region, after a first quarter decline.
25 August 2009Read More .....
Crime still a burden on market
South African property owners have over the past 20 months weathered several major storms with commendable success – but one factor, crime, is still a cause of concern and a serious dampener on the property market.
25 August 2009Read More .....
Mixed-use Midrand project launched
A large mixed-use development in Midrand has been launched after all required approvals were given the green light.
25 August 2009Read More .....
What are the prices tags, Darling?
The entry-level for plots in Darling in the Western Cape starts at around R325k for 775sqm, and goes up to around R775k for larger tracts of 3,100sqm or more.
25 August 2009Read More .....
Box your windows
Bring a touch of garden glamour to your home's exterior aesthetic with decoratively planted window boxes.
25 August 2009Read More .....
Cutting VAT costs on holiday properties
When you can, can't absorb VAT - tax expert.
25 August 2009Read More .....
Groenbou gewild, selfs in swaar tye
Rolspelers in die Suid-Afrikaanse kommersiële eiendomsbedryf het selfs in die moeiliker finansiële omgewing die neiging tot meer volhoubare geboue met ope arms verwelkom.
25 August 2009Read More .....
Lightstone-indeks wys huise se pryse het storm deurstaan
Johannesburg. - Die huismark is deur die krisis en het in een stuk anderkant uitgekom.
24 August 2009Read More .....
Sekere ontwikkelings kry wel 100%-lenings
Banke se aptyt vir uitleen is besig om te verbeter en 100%-verbandlenings raak meer algemeen, maar net vir sekere ontwikkelings.
21 August 2009Read More .....
Huise in Joburg-metro is minste bekostigbaar, wys studie
Uit die land se ses groot metrogebiede was huispryse verlede jaar die hoogste in die Johannesburgse metro.
21 August 2009Read More .....
Conveyancers - fees, tasks
Conveyancing attorneys play a vital role in the registration of every property transfer or bond, but their role is often misunderstood. Furthermore legal fees are often a hidden cost that may come as a surprise to first-time buyers. Heather Briggs of She
21 August 2009Read More .....
Income-chasers: Property will beat bonds, cash
Listed property will give you steady income, capital growth - analysts.
21 August 2009Read More .....
These reasons justified rate cut
The recent 0,5% interest rate drop was the right decision for several reasons.
21 August 2009Read More .....
Check bank insurance on bond
Those fortunate applicants (still only 65% of the total) who are granted home loans by the banks should take note that the loan package will usually include insurance on the property – and this will be issued by the bank itself.
21 August 2009Read More .....
Thermal cameras secure Irene estate
An estate in Irene, Centurion, has employed thermal cameras and intelligent analytics in addition to more conventional security measures.
21 August 2009Read More .....
What's on offer in Knysna?
The best buys in Knysna are in central town where owners appeared to be hardest hit by the recession.
21 August 2009Read More .....
Designing your bathroom
When it comes to designing a luxury bathroom, originality is the base from which to start to make a common-place room something to remember long after you've left the space.
21 August 2009Read More .....
New Krugersdorp estate launched
Some 20 stands have been sold at a recently launched estate near Krugersdorp.
20 August 2009Read More .....
Which wall works best?
South Africans, unlike the Europeans and Americans, really value their privacy and for this reason, and for security of course, we are prone to build high walls around our properties.
20 August 2009Read More .....
What London offers SA investors
Latest trends spotlight the large scope of the investment opportunity presented to South African investors by the weakened London property market, according to market intelligence assembled by British Capital.
20 August 2009Read More .....
Lower inflation good for property
While much is made of the effect that lower interest rates and home loan repayments will have on the property market, more needs to be said about the benefits of keeping the inflation rate on a downwards course.
20 August 2009Read More .....
Knock-out property rentals
R60 000-a-month: the Cape home-owner 2010 target
20 August 2009Read More .....
High-rise housing for Cape Town
City plans 14-storey tower blocks to beat property backlog.
20 August 2009Read More .....
Has the market bottomed?
The South African property market has experienced a steady decline in property price growth since the last quarter of 2007.
19 August 2009Read More .....
Somerset West a commercial hotspot
The Western Cape's Somerset West area has been drawing a steady number of commercial property investors in recent years.
19 August 2009Read More .....
New standards for green tourism
Tourism establishments wanting to earn the lucrative "green dollar" will soon have to meet stringent requirements if they wish to obtain an official stamp of approval.
19 August 2009Read More .....
Property market past its worst
Although Lightstone's National Repeat Sales house price inflation is still slightly negative year on year, it appears that the House Price Index bottomed out at the beginning of 2009 and that house prices are actually now on a modest upward trend, accord
19 August 2009Read More .....
Sitting pretty
Investing in sofas and chairs can be an expensive endeavour, however, if chosen well, they can offer you decades of comfort and style.
19 August 2009Read More .....
Average ER price still under R1m
The average price of a home on the East Rand is still under R1m, while magnificent upmarket homes can still be had from R2m upwards.
19 August 2009Read More .....
Improve now if you're planning to
The sooner those contemplating improvements to their homes or investment properties get them started, the better.
19 August 2009Read More .....
Don't buy property before you divorce
It creates bad selling "vibes", legal pitfalls - estate agency boss
19 August 2009Read More .....
Tentative recovery signs in market
The end may still be a year away, but positive signs in the past quarter indicate the property market is making a tentative shift towards recovery, Bond Choice's sales MD Kevin Mountjoy says.
17 August 2009Read More .....
World Cup rentals: Beware this trap
As excitement mounts ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, many homeowners are eagerly anticipating the potential income they may secure by renting out their homes to soccer fans.
17 August 2009Read More .....
Sales steady in Pringle Bay, Rooi Els
Steady sales have been recorded in the Cape Overberg seaside towns of Pringle Bay and Rooi Els despite the tough market conditions.
18 August 2009Read More .....
Sect. title booming in these areas
An increasing number of business travellers, young professionals, and couples without children are purchasing a sectional title apartment or townhouse.
18 August 2009Read More .....
Insulate roof for comfort
Unless your roof is made out of thatch, it needs to be insulated to make your living space more comfortable in summer and winter alike.
18 August 2009Read More .....
Mitchell's Plain to get new project
Construction on Mitchell's Plain's latest housing project will commence later this month.
14 August 2009Read More .....
Huismark jubel (nog) nie oor laer rentekoers
Gister se ietwat onverwagse rentekoersverlaging is met gemengde gevoelens deur rolspelers in die huismark ontvang.
14 August 2009Read More .....
Average house requires R218k cash
The latest 50 basis point interest rate cut may well have placed rates back to mid-2006 levels but that doesn't necessarily mean that homeownership has become more affordable.
17 August 2009Read More .....
Veggies, veggier, veggie garden
Once you have tasted your own home-grown vegetables, shopping at the grocer will be a thing of the past.
17 August 2009Read More .....
Fun times for first-time property buyers
Free cars, lower interest rates; seems silly not to buy, right?
17 August 2009Read More .....
Perimeter security a good deterrent
Installing perimeter security that is linked to the alarm system in your home is an ideal way to keep intruders off your property.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Bishopscourt mid-market flourishing
Whilst the Cape Town suburb of Bishopscourt has always been synonymous with embassies, celebrity buyers and huge homes and gardens, it is not solely the enclave of the super-rich and famous.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Marriage contract dictates sale
The marital property regime governing your marriage determines who is required to sign an agreement of sale and the transfer documents in respect of a transfer of immovable property.
13 August 2009Read More .....
New, existing home prices: Gap widens
The price difference between new and existing houses was the largest in six years during second quarter 2009.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Why still pay the same levies?
For many areas in the country the introduction and implementation of the Municipal Rates Act is old hat.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Betting on builders: increase your odds
How to avoiding builders who take your money and run
13 August 2009Read More .....
What sort of property to buy
The uncertain economic climate has prospective homebuyers and investors queuing for advice about the best investment opportunities.
13 August 2009Read More .....
More rate cuts 'undesirable'
Johannesburg - The repo rate, the rate at which banks borrow money from the SA Reserve Bank, has been cut by 5.5 percentage points since last year, but some economists reckon we could see it a further 0.5 down this week.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Rate cut surprise
Johannesburg ? The South African Reserve Bank's (SARB's) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Thursday decided to cut the repo rate by 50 basis points to 7.0%. This is out of line with consensus expectations in the marketplace of an unchanged rates stance.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Peace over N2 housing
Peace appears to be on the horizon over the troubled N2 Gateway housing project.
14 August 2009Read More .....
Redistributing property = poverty
I was listening to an interview with Moeletsi Mbeki, author of Architects of Poverty, the other day and one thing he said struck a chord with me: "That you don't distribute wealth by taking someone else's wealth and giving it to a hundred or a thousand p
14 August 2009Read More .....
Mboweni boosts your bank balance - for now
Last interest rate cut? Some economists think so.
14 August 2009Read More .....
Repayments 26,3% cheaper than 2008
Prime and mortgage rates now back at their mid-2006 levels after Thursday's rate cut of 50 basis points and mortgage repayments will now be 26,3% lower compared with late last year.
17 August 2009Read More .....
Leases: what tenants should know
Before signing the rental lease, know what's expected of you - expert.
12 August 2009Read More .....
Web is best for property advertising - estate agency boss
About 80% of buyers come through the 'net'.
13 August 2009Read More .....
Avoiding traps in property deals
Beware of tax, renovations and handshakes
11 August 2009Read More .....
"Get a grip, girls" - Treoc men
Strange tale of feminism at property investors' club
11 August 2009Read More .....
Co-ownership is not democracy
When people jointly inherit a property, the resulting co-ownership is the same as if the persons have purchased the property together.
12 August 2009Read More .....
ER shining in greater Johannesburg
Greater Johannesburg is undoubtedly the metropolitan area with the most stable property market in SA.
12 August 2009Read More .....
Mirror, mirror on the wall. . .
Mirrors are excellent things to use for faking what a room often lacks. The illusions of different dimensions and extra light they give to a room make them one of the most versatile forms of decor.
12 August 2009Read More .....
Strie paint your walls!
A stiff-bristle brush dragged through a wet paint/glaze mixture creates this finely textured look.
12 August 2009Read More .....
Jhb CBD rentals exceed leafy suburbs
Renting a flat in Johannesburg's inner city now costs more than accommodation of the same size and quality in Randburg's Ferndale, Fontainebleau and Windsor as well as north-western neighbourhoods like Melville and Auckland Park, latest figures from prop
12 August 2009Read More .....
Groenbou is nou al antwoord
Dit gaan kommersiële selfmoord wees om in die toekoms ’n gebou te ontwikkel wat nie groen is nie.
11 August 2009Read More .....
Huismark toon oplewing
Die ligte van die huismark begin al hoe meer hier en daar aanflikker.
7 August 2009Read More .....
Nuwe huise ruk kopers se sak ál meer
Die verskil tussen die pryse van nuwe huise en bestaande huise was in die tweede kwartaal van vanjaar die grootste in ses jaar.
7 August 2009Read More .....
Gety draai dalk vir sukkel-huismark
Die dalende huismark van die afgelope maande het dalk ’n draaipunt bereik.
7 August 2009Read More .....
Housing market tells two tales
The housing market is currently telling two tales.
6 August 2009Read More .....
Purchasing a repossessed property
Bargains currently abound as banks are calling for sales in execution where property owners are in arrears with home loan installments, but be sure to find out exactly what you are buying and what you need to pay for.
6 August 2009Read More .....
July mid-house prices down 4,2% y/y
House prices in the middle segment of the market were down by 4,2% year-on-year (y/y) to R925,100 in July 2009 from -4,1% y/y in June, Absa reported on Thursday.
6 August 2009Read More .....
Scoring property bargains when the bank steps in
Buying from desperate sellers: Avoid these traps
6 August 2009Read More .....
Property: The tide is turning
Another market watcher calls the bottom of the market.
6 August 2009Read More .....
Tenants: Best & worst payers
Even high-income tenants default - latest landlord stats.
7 August 2009Read More .....
Rentals paid on time up 4% in Q2
The latest TPN Credit Bureau rental payment monitor shows that rentals paid on time in the second quarter improved by 4%.
7 August 2009Read More .....
Check communication with deal
In South Africa, for there to be a binding property contract you need an offer and an acceptance of that offer.
7 August 2009Read More .....
Huismark se Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde-storie
Die huismark vertel op die oomblik twee stories.
5 August 2009Read More .....
Follow basic rules of property deals
Despite regular warnings on this subject from most of the major estate agencies, property buyers and sellers still regularly ignore some of the basic rules of property transactions.
6 August 2009Read More .....
Sect. title improvements are tricky
Many of the arguments and contentious issues encountered on sectional title schemes relate to the cost and/or the need for maintenance and improvements.
6 August 2009Read More .....
Get connected
The Internet is an intrinsic part of today's culture – imparting benefits to every member of the family, from the very youngest to the oldest. There are a number of ways to get connected - Antonella Dési takes a look at your options.
6 August 2009Read More .....
Sharp jump in mortgage arrears
Some 4,500 South Africans were forced to sell their homes in June because they can no longer afford monthly mortgage repayments.
5 August 2009Read More .....
First apartment? Go girl!
Powder pink, aqua, and a dash of sassy black give this apartment girly glamour.
5 August 2009Read More .....
FNB: House price decline slowing
FNB said on Monday that a decline in South African house prices continued in July.
5 August 2009Read More .....
Exploiting the heritage label
I was aghast over the weekend when I read a story about a woman in Orchards who was selling Mahatma Gandhi's home to anyone interested in buying it and that she had had a lot of interest from overseas clients, particularly from India and Britain.
5 August 2009Read More .....
Property deals: Beware this legal loophole
Or buyer could get away later - court judgment
5 August 2009Read More .....
Some home loan clients back in favour - Absa
It's getting a little easier to borrow money - banks' latest.
5 August 2009Read More .....
Donkerste uur van siek huismark naby aan verby
Dit begin lyk asof die dalings in huispryse voorlopig ’n draaipunt bereik het.
5 August 2009Read More .....
What are Rondebosch prices?
Buyers in Cape Town's Rondebosch include a mix of families, young professionals and older couples downscaling for retirement, as well as some long-term investment buyers hoping to capitalise on rental opportunities.
3 August 2009Read More .....
What is sect. title fidelity cover?
"Bodies Corporate lose Millions", "Funds Missing", etc.
3 August 2009Read More .....
Huispryse daal, maar stadiger
Johannesburg. - Terwyl Eerste Nasionale Bank (ENB) se huisprysindeks in Julie steeds gedaal het, is daar aanduidings dat die daling spoed begin verloor, het die bank Maandag gesê.
3 August 2009Read More .....
Huispryse styg steeds aan Oos-Rand
Die groter Johannesburg-gebied is ongetwyfeld dié metropool waar die eiendomsmark die bestendigste in Suid-Afrika is.
3 August 2009Read More .....
Minder wil huisie by see hê
Johannesburg. - Die pryse van eiendom langs die Suid-Afrikaanse kus, veral dié wat grootliks vir ontspanningsdoeleindes gekoop is, is waarskynlik nou die meeste van alle residensiële eiendom onder druk.
3 August 2009Read More .....
