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PROPERTY INVESTORS| The best five financing options for property investors The South African real estate market is one that investors depend on to increase their wealth and grow their portfolios.  This booming industry relies on a steady economy, a thriving tourism sector and stable interest rates. We explore some of the smartest investment opportunities with different financing options.  What are the financing options for buying a property?   When preparing to invest in a property, you may choose to use a conventional home loan, existing home equity, independent lending institutions, business partnerships or community and public programmes. Each of these options comes with its own set of regulations and it is imperative that you understand the individual processes.  How to finance investment property in South Africa  coins next to module house Home loans  One of the most straightforward ways to create funds for your investment property purchase is to apply...

  PROPERTY INVESTORS | BY: Bongani Khumalo  The best five financing options for property investors The South African real estate market is one that investors depend on to increase their wealth and grow their portfolios.  This booming industry relies on a steady economy, a thriving tourism sector and stable interest rates. We explore some of the smartest investment opportunities with different financing options.  What are the financing options for buying a property? When preparing to invest in a property, you may choose to use a conventional home loan, existing home equity, independent lending institutions, business partnerships or community and public programmes. Each of these options comes with its own set of regulations and it is imperative that you understand the individual processes.  How to finance investment property in South Africa  Home loans  One of the most straightforward ways to create funds for your investment property purchase is to apply...

PROPERTY INVESTMENT | BY: Lloyd Ngavu  Why apartments make a strong residential investment In South Africa, real estate is almost always a good investment, and buying an apartment is an extremely savvy step to secure your financial future. Join Seeff as we take a closer look at the benefits of buying an apartment on a buy-to-let basis. What makes a flat a good investment? Why invest in an apartment rather than in a house? For starters, think of the safety factors. Buying in an apartment complex typically means buying into a gated community, which means that from the outset, your investment has certain protections. Typical apartment blocks boast features like access control and security cameras, providing a safeguard against theft. Having neighbours close by, as your tenant almost certainly will if you’re investing in a sectional title apartment with the intention of letting it out, means that people will notice if something seems out of the ordinary. Various amenities and a self-su...

ADVICE AND OPINION|   By Connor McCarthy Crowe, Property Analyst in the retail management industry. The recent decision by Pick n Pay to publicly list the Boxer brand indicates a strategic move by the ailing retail giant to capitalize on its discount brands’ capability and competitive presence in the urban rural retail space. But will this move help address the range of issues that the Group is facing or present even more challenges than it solves? The story so far Founded in 1977, the Boxer brand has established itself as “Africa’s favorite discount supermarket”, through its effective and tenured management teams’ ability to grow the retailer to what it is today. With a footprint of 282 Superstores, 136 liquor stores and 31 Build stores across South Africa and Eswatini as of June 2023, Boxer has been a part of the Pick n Pay Group since its acquisition in 2002, demonstrating its ability to effectively operate and grow its business model independently from the wider Group. The stor...

  HOME SELLING | BY; Dudu Mkhize A beautiful garden and braai facilities could be what you need to attract buyers and sell your property in summer With Spring in bloom and summer, only a few months away, South African buyers and tenants head outdoors; sellers and landlords have a unique opportunity to attract their interest and sell property. It all comes down to a secret weapon: a beautiful garden. So, before summer arrives, use these few months to get your home and garden ready for buyers. Many factors influence a buyer’s decision to purchase a property, but a well-kept garden and attractive braai area are undoubtedly high on the list. According to a study by Sell House Fast in the United Kingdom, a garden can add between 5% to 20% to a property’s value. In addition, survey data from the Husqvarna Group revealed that 53% of respondents claimed the lawn was the most important feature regarding increasing property value. Why Are Potential Buyers Seeking Homes With a Gorgeous Garden...

  RETAIL PROPERTY INVESTMENT | BY: Kobus Du Toit  Why retail property could be your next commercial property investment goldmine Since the early days of bartering to the modern era of mega malls, shopping has been an essential part of life — and investors in retail real estate reap the benefits.  Despite our era being the one in which the popularity of online shopping has exploded, the retail real estate market thrives, with many shoppers still preferring to see, touch and try before they buy. As a result, retail property can be a money-maker for investors.  Why invest in retail?  There are a number of great reasons to invest in retail space as part of your long-term investment strategy. For starters, it will diversify your investment portfolio, thereby spreading your risk across a wider array of sectors. The earning potential on commercial properties is significantly higher than on residential properties, and since tenants in retail space have a business mindse...

PROPERTY NEWS | CAPE PROPERTY MARKET POSITIVE - TOURISTS AND FOREIGN BUYER INCREASING BY: Staff Reporter When it comes to property prices, what South African’s perceive as fairly expensive, are seen completely differently by tourists and even quite cheap to some, particularly those from the UK and Europe, says Michael Bauer, managing director of IHPC estate agency. Having been in touch with many German tourists over the last few weeks, and with the numbers steadily increasing, Bauer says it is interesting to see how some who have visited Cape Town will definitely be returning and some are indeed looking to buy here. “If you consider that if you are a foreigner buying SA property, it is almost 50% cheaper than it was a few months ago, and if someone were to take, say €200 000 and spend it on a holiday home here, it is an easier sum to risk or take a loss on, if that unlikely event should occur,” he said. “€200 000 currently gets you a home worth around R2,9 million, and anyone looking i...

SECTIONAL TITLE SCHEME LEVIES: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW | BY: Howie Osman  If you are looking to buy an apartment under a sectional title scheme, you will soon become familiar with the term: "levies". In this blog we unpack how levies work, what they cover, as well as some other frequently asked questions. What are levies?  Property levies refer to the fees and charges associated with owning property in a sectional title scheme. In a sectional title scheme, individuals own a specific section of a larger property (such as an apartment in a complex) and share ownership of common areas and facilities with other owners. The levies are used to maintain and manage the common areas and facilities. What do levies cover? Maintenance and repairs This includes the upkeep of common areas like gardens, pools, hallways, and other shared facilities. It also covers repairs to the building's exterior, roofs, and common infrastructure. Insurance Property levies often include insurance coverage...

ESTATE PROPERTY | If you're looking to invest in a residential property with great potential for a good return, you should definitely consider looking at properties in secure estates.  BY! Nicole Hoffman  More and more buyers are seeing the potential benefits of secure estate properties, both from a lifestyle and investment perspective. And with such property developments being on the rise, you as a buyer can discover a new, more secure, and more convenient way of living. Keep scrolling for some of the top perks of choosing a property investment in a secure estate. Top benefits of purchasing property in a secure estate Safety and Security For obvious reasons, a safe and secure estate is one of the key reasons why people clamour to buy within such communities. The reduced risk of burglary, vandalism, and other security concerns helps provide a safer environment and peace of mind for residents, with the most common security measures being: Controlled access points Gated entrance...

  LANDLORD | BY: Bongi Ngavu  Having tenants in your rental property can come with a lot of up-keep. As a new or experienced landlord, it can be daunting to think about all the aspects involved in being successful in your role.  Although there are many facets to the function of a landlord, being a successful one is even more important. Keep scrolling and read through our top three tips to help you maximise your success. Top Tips On How To Be Successful as a Property Landlord Schedule Routine Maintenance Repairs or maintenance to your rental property can be sudden and unexpected, especially if they surprise you with a much larger price tag attached. There is often confusion around the responsibilities of the landlord in terms of repairs and maintenance. It is often seen that landlord's do not take responsibility for certain repairs and instead, incorrectly assign many responsibilities to tenants. However, these responsibilities legally lie with the property owner, as seen ...

PROPERTY RULES | BY: Kobus Du Toit  Rules form an important part of how we function together peacefully as a community and as a society. This includes the way we live together, especially when it's in close proximity within a secure complex or an apartment building. You may have wondered who makes the rules in such contexts? And how do those rules get added, amended, or changed? In South African sectional title schemes, the rules and regulations governing a secure complex or an apartment block are typically established and managed by the Body Corporate.  This collective entity is made up of all the individual owners of units within the sectional title scheme. The primary responsibilities of a Body Corporate include managing and maintaining the common property and enforcing the rules and regulations that officially govern the complex. A Guide To Rules and Regulations Within Sectional Titles The secure complex or apartment block's official rules and regulations are laid out in d...

  PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | BY: Nathan Deartz Are you grappling with the demands of managing your property? You are not alone! Below, we will explore the ins and outs of property management and unlock the top characteristics of an exceptional managing agent. Imagine having someone who takes care of all the day-to-day operations and helps you maximise your investment's potential. That's just what a great managing agent does. So, whether you're new to property ownership or a seasoned investor, here's how a managing agent can transform your property management experience from mundane to marvellous! 6 Qualities of a Top-Notch Managing Agent 1. Stellar Communication Skills  Communication - the cornerstone of any successful relationship. A great managing agent doesn't just talk; they listen. They keep you in the loop about your property, from maintenance updates to tenant concerns, ensuring a transparent and open line of dialogue. Whether it's a quick update or a detailed...

VIEWING A PROPERTY | BY: James Maseko Embarking on the journey to find your dream home is exciting, but let's be honest, it can also feel like a full-time job. Within a whirlwind of properties to see and decisions to make, it's easy to get swept up in the excitement. But fear not, because we are here to arm you with some sharp questions that will turn you into a house-hunting pro in no time! 5 Key Questions to Improve Your Property Search So, you've found a home that catches your eye - it's got the charm, the space, and hey, even that little garden you've always wanted. But how do you really know if it's "The One"? Simple - ask your agent! Your real estate agent is your ally, your guide, and sometimes your reality check in this home-buying journey. Let's turn you into a savvy home-buyer who knows exactly what to ask to avoid those pesky, unforeseen problems down the road.  Here are five key questions to help you uncover the real story behind each p...

EVICTIONS: ADVICE FOR LANDLORDS |   BY: Olga Olivia  Evictions: they're not nice to think about, whether you're a landlord or a tenant. Unfortunately though, they are a reality - and a headache to handle when they become your last resort.   Whether you have great tenants or ghastly ones, understanding the eviction process is key to avoiding one altogether. Evictions are stressful, time-consuming, and costly. The success and profitability of your investment depend on finding and keeping happy tenants that you don't have to boot out of the door! Advice For Landlords Concerning Tenant Eviction Remember, the legalities surrounding rental evictions may change depending on your area. Be sure to consult with a legal professional and keep informed about the latest regulations. 1. Understand the Rental Housing Act This is a vital piece of legislation that every landlord should be familiar with. Keep an updated copy of the Rental Housing Act of South Africa, which governs the ...

  BUYING A HOUSE| What to Look for when buying a house in South Africa for the first time BY: Bongi Booi Whether you’re a proudly South African citizen or a foreign-born resident looking to invest in SA’s property market, here is what you should know about joining the ranks of millions who own some of the most sought-after land in the world.  What benefits do you receive as a first-time property owner in South Africa?  Buying a home is an exciting journey that is compounded by the opportunity to live and work in a beautiful country like South Africa. With many cosmopolitan major cities to select from, you can put down roots and achieve the South African dream with your perfect property. A perk of becoming a first-time homeowner is the Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Program (FLISP). This is a government subsidy initiative that was created to alleviate financial pressure from low to medium-income earners. If you meet the criteria, the government grants you the subsidy wh...

  COASTAL PROPERTY|               Despite last year’s rapid interest rate hikes, the coastal property market shows remarkable resilience. BY: Kobus Du Toit  Property Informer affirms that the demand for coastal property remains strong. This is good news for up-and-coming property investors eager to explore the buy-to-let market and take advantage of South Africa’s spectacular coastline of over 2,500 kilometres, home to many charming coastal towns that offer excellent investment opportunities Let’s explore promising investment opportunities in today’s flourishing coastal property market. Top Coastal Property Destinations for Your Next Investment Are you looking to invest in a property with a prime location? Look no further than Hout Bay. It’s the perfect alternative for those seeking proximity to the Atlantic Seaboard and the Southern Suburbs According to Kobus Du Toit, our coastal journalist in Camps Bay, the area provides a quaint-like lifes...

  LOADSHEDDING| SABC Image  How to Prepare for Load Shedding and Increase the Value of Your Property Get your house and appliances ready for load shedding in a way that boosts your property value   Did you know? Load shedding increased by 40% in 2021, according to CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research. In 2022, we even experienced a frightening stage 6. With load shedding frequently and unexpectedly interrupting our lives, there's never been a better time to prepare our homes for it. BY: Ann Alison  Is load shedding here to stay? Unfortunately, that is the reality.  "Households should start adapting and taking measures to ensure they can continue functioning during power outages." - Property Informer Read further for seven ways to prepare your home for load shedding while increasing your property value, should you ever decide to sell your house.  How Can I Prepare For Load Shedding?  Make sensible investments for the good of your ho...