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When you walk into a modern development, the smell of fresh paint and polished finishes welcomes you into a space that feels ready to be lived in. But before the move-in day, there are tax and legal steps that need to be completed to finalise the deal. What makes it
Navigating the tug-of-war over rental security The moment a tenant hands over a security deposit for a lease, the silent countdown begins. For the tenant, that money represents a future moving truck or a down payment on their next chapter. For the landlord, it is a vital safety net against
For many South Africans living in estates or sectional title schemes (community schemes), fines have become part of everyday life. A penalty for speeding, a charge for parking, a debit on your levy statement for conduct you may not even have known was an issue. Most people pay these fines
Buying property off plan remains a popular entry point into the South African property market in 2026, driven by the exemption from transfer duty and the potential for capital appreciation during the build phase. However, as recent market shifts have shown, the risk of developer insolvency is an ever-present variable
South African landlords often make one critical mistake: treating every occupier who refuses to leave a property the same. The law clearly distinguishes between a tenant and an unlawful occupier, and confusing the two can derail the entire eviction process. The starting point is simple: does the person have lawful
For many property owners in South African sectional title schemes, the Annual General Meeting (AGM) is a routine formality. But when the call for nominations goes out, you might find yourself wondering: Should I become a trustee? It is an act of service that keeps a co-existing community functioning, yet
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
We live in an age where agreements are concluded by email, documents are signed electronically, and important records are stored in the cloud. It is therefore not surprising that clients often ask: “Can I sign my will electronically?” or “Is the will saved on my laptop valid?” The short answer
Less space. More freedom. As retirement approaches or the kids move out, many homeowners start to rethink their living space. Downsizing isn’t just about getting a smaller home—it’s about choosing a space that suits your new lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to simplify maintenance, cut costs, or enjoy a slower pace
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
We often focus our compassion on vulnerable children and their needs, but what about the elderly? In South Africa, too many parents spend their final years in destitution while their adult children live in comfort. This raises a difficult but important question: can parents claim maintenance from their children? The
Most people only become aware that a default judgment has been granted against them when the sheriff arrives with a warrant of execution or when their credit applications are unexpectedly declined. A default judgment is usually issued when a defendant fails to enter an appearance to defend or does not