SA CONSTRUCTION NEWS

  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...

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...

  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...

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...

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...

  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...

CREDIT SCORE|  BY: Dave Foster South Africa presents unique challenges for individuals wanting to buy property, but once you understand how to build a credit score, opportunities can open up  Are you a young professional dreaming of buying your first home? Homeownership is one of the smartest investments you can make, with the opportunity to earn passive income from renting out the property. Yet, there are no shortcuts. One of the most important things you’ll need to learn is how to build a credit score - and why you need to start now. Granted, the process of buying a house may vary depending on one's income level. In South Africa, income disparities exist, and in cases of lower income, there can be a more flexible approach. Private buyers, for instance, might be willing to negotiate payment terms on a month-to-month basis, creating a more personal and accommodating arrangement. You may not need to prove robust financial health. However, if you are seeking a specific property ...