How much home can you get for your money
Analysing the affordability of SA’s residential property market. South Africans continue to tighten their belts as the pressure of rising interest rates, inflation, and other varying economic factors put household income under strain. This puts the affordability of national residential property under the spotlight. However, while (in nominal terms) national house price inflation remains positive […]
Transfer duty – No surprises – Part 2
The Transfer Duty Act 40/1949 (“the Act”) states that transfer duty (duty) is to be levied on any property acquired by any person by way of a transaction. The Act is clear as to whom and by when the duty is to be paid. It states that the duty shall be payable by the person […]
The Subdivision of Agricultural Land Act No. 70 of 1970 explained: Part 3
In this Part 3 of the series on “The Subdivision of Agricultural Land Act No. 70 of 1970 Explained”, we will discuss the procedure on how to apply for the consent as required by the Minister for any actions regarding agricultural land which is prohibited in terms of Section 3 of the Act. This will […]
The rei vindicatio and the actio ad exhibendum
The are a myriad of circumstances where one might be deprived of possession of one’s property. You might, for example, have given permission to your friend to use your vehicle for one year, which your friend then refuses to return the vehicle after the friendship has turned sour a year later. South Africa is a […]
When your tenant ‘does a duck’
Tips for landlords when their tenant does a disappearing act Everyone who has let out property knows that sickening feeling when you find out that your tenant has disappeared. Most of the time there are signs—usually unpaid or late paid rental. Some tenants plan to go without paying, while others just cannot pay. What should […]
Preparing your budget for your dream home
Purchasing a new home is undoubtedly an exciting decision, but it is also an extremely emotional one. A home is where family traditions are brought to life and where lifelong memories are made. However, in addition to the immense pride that comes with having a place to call your own, comes the heavy costs that […]
Neighbourly disputes over building plans
Disputes between neighbours tend to ensue where an owner decides to build on or renovate their property and the neighbouring owner believes that such building works will have a detrimental effect on their property rights. Neighbours who are disgruntled by the noise nuisance, possible obstruction of an existing view from their property, or the aesthetic features of the building works, […]
Are you planning on starting an Airbnb?
When deciding whether to become an Airbnb host, it’s important for you to understand how the laws work in your city. According to Brett Herron, the mayoral committee member for transport and urban development at the City of Cape Town, different holiday accommodation land-use types, such as B&Bs and guest houses, are regulated by the […]
Buying or selling a home? Know the process
The transfer process is synonymous with building a house. The foundation must be laid and certain parts are built simultaneously in order for the process to be completed as one cannot be done without the other. There are many parties involved in a transfer process and each one has an important role to play. The […]
The ups and downs of property co-ownership
Property ownership is no small feat. It is one of the most reliable forms of investment and one of the biggest items that most people have on their financial “to-do” lists. Unfortunately, it is not always an easily achievable goal. Property ownership has always been a costly endeavour, and in recent years the age of […]