Where to Invest R1 Million in Today’s Property Market
Finding value in South Africa’s property market used to mean stretching beyond major metros or compromising on space. Today, with interest rates easing and demand patterns shifting, R1 million can still unlock meaningful investment opportunities. When investing in this price bracket, you need to know where to look – and how to structure your purchase […]
Bonds Stood Out Again in 2025, But Will the Trend Hold in 2026?
South African fixed-income investors have enjoyed another exceptional year, with the local bond market extending the strong performance seen in 2024. For years, domestic bond returns came largely from income, but since last year, investors have also benefited from significant capital gains. Long-dated nominal bonds have led 2025’s rally, with 30-year yields over 1.8% lower […]
The Rental Housing Tribunal: The Unsung Hero of South Africa’s Rental Market
Renting or leasing a home should be simple, but when it turns into a headache, the Rental Housing Tribunal (RHT) steps in to help. Established under the Rental Housing Act No. 50 of 1999, the tribunal provides a free, fair, and accessible way for landlords and tenants to resolve disputes, without the stress or cost […]
Can You Back Out of a Property Purchase? Legal Consequences Explained
Purchasing property is one of the most significant financial commitments a person can make. It often involves high financial stakes, emotional investments and a legally binding contract. But what happens if you need to back out of a sale after signing an offer to purchase? Whether due to a change in financial circumstances, buyer’s remorse, […]
A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House in South Africa
Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but without proper guidance, the process can be daunting. South Africa’s property market has unique legal and financial steps that buyers must follow. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, this guide will walk you through each stage, from securing financing to transferring ownership, ensuring a […]
Renting vs Buying: The Pros and Cons
In a lowering interest environment, tenants are reconsidering their priorities. Driven by reduced interest rates and more lenient loan criteria, tenants are starting to have their sights firmly set on owning a home. While many—particularly the ‘millennial generation’—chose to travel and live more ‘freely’ in the past, priorities have since changed. The pressing question right […]
Avoid the Long-Term Implications of Skipping a Bond Repayment
Are you feeling the financial pinch? You’re not alone. Many South Africans are finding it increasingly difficult to meet their credit obligations. The cost of living is on the rise, disposable incomes are shrinking, and servicing debt has become a significant challenge. Homeowners are feeling the strain too, with financial institutions noting a surge in […]
Understanding Homeowners Associations (HOAs)
If you are considering buying a property in a housing development, it’s essential to understand what a Homeowners Association (HOA) is and how it operates. HOAs are legal entities responsible for managing and regulating housing development schemes. Although homeowners own their individual properties, the HOA maintains and oversees communal infrastructure, such as roads, security systems, […]
Are You Obligated to Pay Arrear Levies When Purchasing a Sectional Title Unit? Part 1
Recently, the High Court and the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) was required to interpret Section 15B(3)(a)(i)(aa) of the Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 in relation to a sale in execution in the case of the Body Corporate of Marsh Rose v Arno Steinmuller and others. The Sectional Titles Act 95 of 1986 stipulates […]
Complex living: Be aware of the hidden costs
When considering the purchase of a unit within a complex, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface-level expenses such as the advertised levies. Without thorough research, potential buyers may find themselves facing unexpected financial burdens. The structure of sectional title schemes In sectional title schemes, you own your unit but share ownership of the property’s […]