Buying your first sectional title property? This guide explains everything South African homebuyers need to know before purchasing an apartment or townhouse, from understanding levies and body corporate rules to reviewing finances, comparing monthly ownership costs and avoiding costly surprises. Learn how sectional title ownership works, what questions to ask before making an offer, and how to choose a...
Thinking about buying a sectional title property or freehold home in South Africa? This guide breaks down the key differences between the two property types, including ownership responsibilities, levies, security, maintenance costs, and lifestyle considerations. Whether you are a first-time buyer, investor, or upgrading to a family home, understanding how sectional title and freehold ownership work can...
For years, South African homeowners watched one number to understand affordability: the interest rate. When the repo rate moved, buyers rushed to act, sellers adjusted prices, and homeowners recalculated their monthly repayments. Property decisions largely revolved around what the bank would charge you to borrow money. But increasingly, that isn’t the number catching new homeowners off guard....
The latest FNB Property Barometer for July 2025 shows that South Africa’s housing market is holding steady, with the FNB House Price Index (HPI) averaging 3.7% year-on-year. June’s figure was also revised up from 3.2% to match July’s 3.7%, signalling a notable moment — house prices are now rising slightly faster than inflation....
Downsizing can be a smart, rewarding choice, particularly for homeowners looking to simplify their lives, cut expenses, or adjust to changing circumstances. Whether driven by lifestyle changes, financial motivations, or a need for less space, making the decision to downsize is personal and requires careful thought. Here are some key factors to consider when thinking about downsizing....
Levy increases are an essential aspect of property ownership in sectional title schemes. As property owners within these complexes, the responsibility of maintaining, managing, and repairing common property falls on the body corporate—the collective of unit owners. The funds necessary for these responsibilities are generated through levies, which are typically adjusted annually. These adjustments are...
Community Housing Schemes should as a matter of urgency be making sure that they have a secure water supply system that is independent of the municipal infrastructure....
From the steadfast performance of Bryanston to the emerging appeal of Sibaya Coastal Precinct, the current top five suburbs in South Africa highlight the diverse property landscape and its buyers....
Whether you are a first-time property buyer, a seasoned investor, or considering downsizing, there are important questions you need to ask before buying a sectional title property....
The South African residential property market has been through a series of transformations and challenges over the past two decades. From the heady days of 2004/5 when house price inflation soared to 37% to the more recent years of modest growth, the market has shown resilience and adaptability. As of August 2023, the market's total stock value stands at an impressive R6.8 trillion, reflecting its...