Bonds Stood Out Again in 2025, But Will the Trend Hold in 2026?
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 30-year yields over 1.8% lower […]
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 […]
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 […]
Can You Back Out of a Property Purchase? Legal Consequences Explained
Purchasing property is one of the most significant financial commitments a person can make. It often involves high financial stakes, emotional investments and a legally binding contract. But what happens if you need to back out of a sale after signing an offer to purchase? Whether due to a change in financial circumstances, buyer’s remorse, […]
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 the Real Estate Market: Tips for Buyers
Understanding the real estate market is crucial when buying or selling a property. The market’s current favour, whether for buyers or sellers, significantly impacts your decisions and strategies. Buyers’ market: When the real estate market leans towards buyers, it signifies that there’s an abundance of properties available for sale compared to the number of active buyers […]
Should sellers provide approved building plans when selling property?
The simple answer is no. However, the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act mandates that local authorities approve building plans for the construction, alteration, or conversion of a building. Consequently, if approved plans are absent, the property owner would be committing a statutory offence. Once signed by both parties, an offer to purchase becomes […]
Should sellers provide approved building plans When selling property?
The simple answer is no. However, the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act mandates that local authorities approve building plans for the construction, alteration, or conversion of a building. Consequently, if approved plans are absent, the property owner would be committing a statutory offence. Once signed by both parties, an offer to purchase becomes […]