Should You Step Up? The Reality of Becoming a Trustee
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 it is far from a […]
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 […]
SARS’ ‘Toll Fee’ on the Road to Home Ownership
Of all the costs involved in purchasing a home, transfer duty is one of the largest. Buying a property in South Africa involves more than just the purchase price. One of the additional costs that many buyers need to budget for is transfer duty, a tax levied by SARS. Understanding how this tax works is […]
Seller Appoints the Conveyancer; Purchaser Pays the Fees
There is currently no legal framework in South Africa that mandates the common practice where the seller appoints the conveyancer, and the purchaser pays the transfer fees. However, this arrangement has become deeply embedded in South African conveyancing practice over many years, if not decades, due to a range of practical and legal reasons outlined […]
Possession Is Nine-Tenths of the Law: Understanding Spoliation Law
What is spoliation? Spoliation refers to the unlawful dispossession of someone’s peaceful possession of movable or immovable property without their consent and/or without a court order authorising the dispossessor’s actions. Spoliation focuses specifically on a person’s possession, and ownership of the property involved is not considered relevant. Luckily, our law provides a strong remedy, originating […]
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 […]
Navigating Property Disputes: A Guide for Owners and Tenants
Property disagreements can be stressful and costly if not handled effectively. Whether you’re a homeowner, tenant, or landlord, understanding common disputes and how to prevent them can save you significant time and money. Common Property Disputes You Might Encounter Property disputes usually revolve around ownership, usage, or responsibility for a property. These can occur in […]
Five home ownership costs you shouldn’t overlook
It’s not all about interest rates. With interest rates at a multi-year low, now is an opportune time for first-time homebuyers to step into the property market. However, when it comes time to budget, potential homebuyers are urged to account for several important, but often overlooked, costs. While home loan pre-approval gives homebuyers a clear […]
Downsizing for Retirement: Making the Move That Makes Sense
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 in a more comfortable setting, […]
What buyers and sellers should know about conveyancing
If you’re buying or selling property for the first time, the transfer process might seem a little overwhelming. We’ve compiled a list of common questions to help you understand the key steps and make the experience a bit less daunting. 1. What does a conveyancer actually do? A conveyancer is a specialised attorney who oversees […]