Advice &amp; News

Sectional Title Governance

An overview of sectional title levies

For many, buying into a sectional title scheme comes with peace of mind knowing that the regular levy costs incurred will cover the expense of ongoing maintenance to the sectional scheme. However, it is important to understand what these levies cover and who is responsible for what.

July 28, 2017

Historical monuments and renovation restrictions

South Africa has a diverse and rich history, represented in the buildings that have been built throughout the years. To ensure their lasting value and to preserve this legacy, these buildings are protected through legislation that regulates and restricts renovations and alterations made to buildings classified as historical monuments.

July 28, 2017

The Property Practitioners Bill – what you need to know

Currently regulated by the Estate Agency Affairs Act, 112 of 1976, the estate agent profession is set to see new legislation come into force in the near future.

July 28, 2017

Rental Management

Subletting your property

The recent tax hike has triggered tenants to consider subletting as a way to make an extra buck. We’ve put together a basic guide exploring key aspects: what it means to sublet, how subletting differs based on the kind of property, the different terms of a subletting agreement and best practice when subletting.

July 22, 2017

My name has changed – what happens to my property’s title deed?

This may happen when an individual’s marital status changes, or for personal reasons, and depending on the reason, a different process should be followed.

July 3, 2017

Extending your bond

A bond or home loan is often a necessity when buying a property and many consider the primary aim to be paying this loan off, but there are a number of alternatives that could come in handy.

July 3, 2017

Latent vs patent defects

Making an informed decision regarding the potential investment opportunity when purchasing a property relies significantly on having a clear idea of both latent and patent defects relating to the property.

July 3, 2017

Muslim marriages and the ownership of property

While South African law has historically catered to those married through a civil union or indigenous customary marriage, Islamic customary marriages have typically not enjoyed the same recognition. However, much has changed in recent years.

June 5, 2017

What you should know before buying a house as an unmarried couple

While there are important considerations for unmarried couples who choose to enter the property market together, doing so with care should still result in a positive long-term investment.

June 2, 2017

Cancelling your bond: What you need to know

Paying off and cancelling a home loan is often viewed as a significant goal being achieved, but there are a number of aspects to consider.

June 2, 2017

Subdivision of property in South Africa

There are several potential benefits associated with property subdivisions, but before moving ahead with plans to subdivide a property, owners need to take into account a number of factors.

March 24, 2017

Retirement Villages and Life Rights

We commonly discuss the merits of, and differences between freehold and sectional title properties, but retirement villages often provide a third alternative to these two forms of ownership – Life Right Schemes – for those looking for a lifestyle change in old age.

March 24, 2017

Market News

SA property market in numbers – it’s not all doom and gloom

2016 has been labelled an all round poor year, and while the impact of economic and political crises – both locally and internationally – cannot be ignored, the South African property market has continued to weather the storm.

March 8, 2017

Compliance certificates: a matter of safety

The various compliance certificates required to transfer a property can contribute to ensure a property is safe, secure and in good condition. Here’s what you need to know.

February 24, 2017