Understanding the full community of property
In the case of CM v EM it was held in the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa (“SCA”), case number 10861/2018, that:“The value of the Respondent’s right to future annuity payments in respect of Personal Portfolio Living Annuities (“the living annuities”) from Glacier Financial Solutions (Pty) Ltd, a member of the Sanlam Group, is an […]
My neighbours are renovating their house without complying with building regulations. What are my options?
What one’s neighbour builds on their property, is not something the owner of the neighbouring property has a lot of control over. Unfortunately, it can have a negative impact on your property if the building work completed on your neighbour’s property does not comply with building regulations. Furthermore, it can be aesthetically displeasing, and be […]
What to look out for before buying a property
You’ve searched far and wide for the perfect home for you and your family, and you’ve finally found it, or so you thought. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is as overwhelming as it is exciting. You’ve viewed your dream home, but remember, you receive so much information during your viewing, that you […]
Homeowner’s insurance for landlords
Apart from paying off a bond on a rental property, property investors/landlords are usually also paying for homeowner’s insurance. What is homeowner’s insurance? Homeowner’s insurance covers the property owner against damages to the structure of the property. This damage could be caused by flooding, fire, wind, hail or other natural causes. However, the above is […]
The requirements and benefits of a sole mandate
What is a sole mandate? When homeowners decide to sell their property and have chosen an estate agent/agency to market their property, they will be asked to sign a sole mandate with the said estate agent/agency. A sole mandate is given to only one agency and no other. This is different from an open mandate, […]
What documentation is needed for buying a property in South Africa?
You’ve scoured the web for what feels like weeks, and you’ve finally found your dream home! You’ve put in your offer, and it’s been accepted. But before you can pack your boxes and move into your dream home, there are certain requirements needed when buying a home in South Africa. Property sales are usually handled […]
First-time home buyer?
Buying a property is a rather big deal, which is why you should be sure that you are able to afford it before you end up running into debt. Owning your own home is a very rewarding experience, but there are usually some obstacles along the way. Follow the steps the below to be sure […]
The Cybercrimes Bill: Malicious messaging over social media could send you to jail
South Africans will soon have to be much more careful and think twice about the messages they send over WhatsApp and other social media platforms, as the Cybercrimes Bill (“the Bill”), which was recently adopted into law and is in the process of being enacted, attempts to police malicious messaging. Cybercrime is on the rise […]
Investing in a rental property
Buying a rental property could be an incredible investment opportunity, however, it’s important to make a well-informed decision before investing, as it is not for everyone. Although investing in a rental property provides many benefits, such as a potential extra income, and a way of paying off the property, it poses certain risks as well. […]
Before leasing, include these in the agreement
If you consider leasing out your property, it is important not to overlook any requirement and expectations you may have of the incoming tenant. A basic lease agreement should at least have the below stipulated in detail: Basic information This includes the details of those who are party to the agreement, the address of the […]