Articles published in January 2012
2012/01/04
Growing salad greens gives you fresh organic produce at your fingertips. Start with lettuce and rocket, easy to grow in the garden or pots…
2012/01/03
Buying is now more affordable than at any point in the past 15 years and less expensive than renting in many SA suburbs, says an industry figure.
2012/01/03
Some of the Western Cape’s most historic farmland is on the market in the Dwars River Valley, gateway to the Winelands town of Franschhoek.
2012/01/03
South African estate agents are optimistic about the property market in 2012 as consumers are set to continue to buy and sell property.
2012/01/03
Don’t get into a double bind over commission! Those selling property should be sure to follow this advice when dealing with more than one agent...
2012/01/03
Improving an outdoor entertainment area gives your home an instant lift. But when updating this space, think about the design elements first...
2012/01/03
The South African Listed Property Index recorded a total return of -0.94 percent in November 2011, according to Catalyst Fund managers.
2012/01/06
The New Year has begun with a big focus on the usage of sustainable materials in the home. Start in the kitchen with these suggestions…
2012/01/04
A question that sometimes pops up is ‘can rental agents claim commission for a property sold if the tenant chooses to buy the property?’
2012/01/04
As South Africa’s green bank, it is generally expected of Nedbank to be something of an environmental pioneer in the business environment.
2012/01/04
Hong Kong is streets ahead of the world on top-priced homes while SA’s priciest streets in Clifton and Sandhurst are fetching a fair price too.
2012/01/04
With South African consumers set to continue buying and selling homes in 2012, we bring you some of the Cape’s most sought-after homes.
2012/01/04
A property that has been owned by one family for 63 years in Upper Kenilworth in Cape Town is up for grabs with a price tag of R5 995m.
2012/01/05
Small rooms are often cluttered and uncomfortable. Redefine the space with some clever design tips and make any room seem bigger and brighter...
2012/01/05
Good quality homes offered at the right rental price are “moving remarkably quickly” in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs...
2012/01/05
It’s only a few days since 2012 kicked off and already would-be homebuyers are attending show houses with more interest than this time last year.
2012/01/06
Soon the kids will be back at school tackling the 2012 curriculum. Here is an ideal task board project which helps keep track of daily tasks…
2012/01/05
The South African residential property market will continue to be driven by the banks and whatever their appetite is for lending this year.
2012/01/06
Don't settle for ordinary coffee when you can brew up a personal blend from the comfort of your home. Make coffee that tastes and looks great…
2012/01/05
Investing in repossessed property has become one way to make money in the current economy but in a good deal 'you make your profit when you buy'...
2012/01/05
Many homeowners are struggling with their repayments and are choosing to enter debt counselling in an effort to stay in their homes.
2012/01/05
Tangerine Tango has grown in popularity amongst interior designers and home owners alike. Use this spirited autumn hue to energise your home…
2012/01/06
This year will be the tipping point in real estate when online marketing gains more traction than traditional print and other forms of advertising.
2012/01/06
Consumers will continue to demand better service, information and value for money in real estate as the Consumer Protection Act is known and applied
2012/01/06
South African prime commercial properties are expected to perform better this year when compared to the not-so prime properties, according to FNB.
2012/01/09
The South African property market strength in 2012 will rely on the economic growth which should pick up before the sector can realise real growth.
2012/01/09
Debt recovery is lengthy and expensive and when sectional title property owners fall behind others will probably have to carry their share...
2012/01/09
The South African residential property market is showing strong supply relative to demand and this trend is set to continue throughout the year.
2012/01/16
An accent colour is the final touch to any decorated room. Without it a room would be bland and uninspiring. Choose and use your colour wisely…
2012/01/09
Cement doesn't have to be grey. You can tint a concrete area in a multitude of earth tones all while you are mixing or finishing it. Here’s how…
2012/01/09
Don’t drop your guard, have a longer term financial plan, do a household budget and start saving more today...
2012/01/09
In the past two years the rate of increase for national office vacancies has been relatively modest and vacancies could still remain under pressure.
2012/01/09
Believe it or not the way you usually clean may be causing damage to your surfaces. Stop cleaning mistakes in their tracks…
2012/01/10
The volume of electricity consumed increased by 0. 2% (48 Gigawatt-hours) year-on-year in November 2011, according to Statistics South Africa.
2012/01/10
While a bathroom should suit your needs and personality, when redesigning it helps to have a look at the latest design trends...
2012/01/10
The development strength and potential growth of the Pretoria CBD property market in Tshwane, Gauteng are not being fully capitalised.
2012/01/10
Homes in the Western Cape town of Caledon are affordable, offering a healthy outdoor lifestyle, with prices ranging from R400k to R2,5m.
2012/01/10
There are three options for buying retirement property but the legality of ownership can be a significant factor. Get an overview...
2012/01/10
If you were thinking of buying property this year but cannot afford to raise a deposit to access home loan finance, there is an easy way to do it.
2012/01/10
There's nothing shy about this year's trends in home décor. From murals to textures – 2012’s décor forecast is full of exciting inspirations…
2012/01/12
Rain harvesting systems provide eco-friendly, reliable and cost-effective solutions for homeowners to make better use of available rainwater.
2012/01/11
Simple oversights can end up costing homeowners a lot of money. Find out what common property related mistakes you would do well to avoid...
2012/01/11
Open up your home and bring the outdoors in with fold away doors. Before buying here are pointers on what to look out for...
2012/01/12
It may sound humorous, but many South Africans don’t know how to light a braai correctly. Avoid embarrassment and become an ace fire starter…
2012/01/11
South African power utility, Eskom has warned of possible electricity load shedding that could last until March this year.
2012/01/11
Savvy property investors will soon be in line to snap up commercial buildings that will hit the auction floors later this month in Johannesburg.
2012/01/13
Lighting up the garden around a home not only provides a wonderful atmosphere for summer entertaining, it also provides additional security...
2012/01/16
No need to buy new, when you can transform your old, outdated furniture pieces into modern, high-end items in a matter of hours. Here’s how…
2012/01/20
Revamp your textured walls without the costs of replastering. Give stippled walls an instant facelift with this technique…
2012/01/11
Buying property in Lonehill, Johannesburg isn't just about owning a home, it's a lifestyle that appreciates in value and offers comfortable living.
2012/01/11
FNB's Estate Agent Survey found an increasing number of first time buyers were able to produce the money required for deposits and transfer fees...
2012/01/13
The RealNet property group has opened a new franchise to serve the lucrative residential property market in Midrand south in Gauteng.
2012/01/12
If your agent does not advertise your home widely on the internet, you are quite simply losing out on the best chance you have of selling it.
2012/01/12
It’s easy to get excited when buying a property and forget to look more closely at common defects that might not be obvious at first sight.
2012/01/12
Pam Golding Properties helped secure a housing facility for vulnerable orphaned youngsters on a farm in Schaapkraal, Philippi Cape Town.
2012/01/12
The rapid increase in the cost of electricity has resulted in many South African homeowners opting to use gas in their homes. Read these tips...
2012/01/12
The average price of a mid-segment house was almost 14 percent lower in November last year than it was in August 2007, according to Absa.
2012/01/12
Mushrooming coal mines around Belfast in Mpumalanga are creating fresh demand for homes, with prices from R350k for starter homes going up to R2m.
2012/01/13
An estimated 50 000 people visited wildlife resorts in Limpopo over the festive season – more than double the number of visitors in 2010.
2012/01/13
A number of home loans are now being approved at 100 percent of the property purchase price, according to the latest statistics from Betterbond.
2012/01/13
If you have been dreaming of owning a farm property in the Western Cape, dream no further than the Kaplip farm in the Touws River Mountains.
2012/01/13
South African listed property remains an attractive alternative to cash and bonds over the long term and property income has the potential to grow.
2012/01/13
Decide you are going to buy that flat, loft apartment or dream home you so want. Start by changing the way you spend and make it a reality...
2012/01/13
Here are some tried and tested tips on how to keep your home desk neat and tidy, helping you to remain as productive as possible throughout 2012...
2012/01/16
Green building has a joint consideration for the economic, social and natural environment making it good for people and economic growth.
2012/01/16
Of the country's 278 municipalities, 66 are in financial distress, while another 37 municipalities are heading in the same direction...
2012/01/16
Many homeowners are taking advantage of the low interest rates and applying for further advances on their home loans, but there are risks involved.
2012/01/16
Realtors around the country have reported that holiday home sales volumes this festive season saw a solid increase on last year’s transactions.
2012/01/16
The residential market has become more of a buyers’ market since early 2008 with prices having declined by -17% in real terms since February 2008.
2012/01/17
A reader asks if stormwater falls under common property and if it's the responsibility of the Body Corporate to maintain these? An expert advises...
2012/01/17
Standard Bank reckons the South African Reserve Bank will keep the repo rate at its current level for the duration of 2012.
2012/01/18
Selling your home? Renovating the kitchen could help you sell quicker and for a higher price, says an industry figure. Get budget renovation tips...
2012/01/17
Power utility Eskom said on Monday that SA's power capacity has improved this week in the second of its regular weekly updates.
2012/01/17
The draft Special Economic Zones Bill, which aims to improve the concept of industrial development zones, is open for public comment.
2012/01/17
When space is limited and kids have to share, there can often be chaos. Peacefully divide up a shared bedroom without compromising space...
2012/01/19
If the property I've been renting has been sold at a sale in execution, can my lease be cancelled? A legal expert advises...
2012/01/17
Ornamental grasses are not only boldly dramatic, they know how to tough it out in the summer heat. Here are some useful planting tips..
2012/01/17
A shortage of student accommodation at universities and tertiary institutions has seen old office blocks being turned into upmarket student homes.
2012/01/18
Removing stains from a carpet can be a nightmare. Without destroying the carpet, here are simple tricks that will remove these stains effectively…
2012/01/18
The R500m Nicolway Bryanston shopping centre, scheduled to open in April 2012, is set to lead the way in conveniently stylish everyday shopping.
2012/01/18
South African-based Retail Network Services (RNS) is committed to helping develop independent retailers in its new shopping centres.
2012/01/18
January is the ideal time to plant homegrown delicious, super-sweet tomatoes. Find an ideal location and see how easy it is to grow your own…
2012/01/18
There are an increasing number of single homebuyers and for these buyers there are special considerations to keep in mind when buying.
2012/01/18
Property prices in South Africa recorded a positive year-on-year growth of 6.2 percent in December 2011, according to mortgage originator ooba.
2012/01/19
The South African headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) annual inflation rate in December 2011 was 6.1 percent, according to Statistics South Africa.
2012/01/19
Enjoy your garden this summer without the hindrance of pests. Follow these natural remedies without resorting to harmful chemicals…
2012/01/19
Seasonally adjusted retail trade sales as measured in real terms (constant 2008 prices), decreased by 0.3 percent in Nov 2011 compared with October.
2012/01/19
RealNet franchisee Nelis Bezuidenhout has been named by the Institute of Estate Agents (IEASA) as its Agent of the Year 2011.
2012/01/19
Among them a triple storey, A grade office block measuring 15 253 square metres in the commercial node of Centurion will be auctioned on 26 January.
2012/01/19
Although Generation X aged between 31 and 45 are leading the market recovery, baby boomers are still actively buying property.
2012/01/20
Prime offices in Illovo, Johannesburg currently command the highest gross asking rentals, according to a recent office vacancy survey report.
2012/01/20
Whether selling, buying or investing in property this year, there are rules to follow that will help you make a sound financial decision...
2012/01/19
The Monetary Policy Committee announced today that the repo rate would remain stable at 5.5 percent leaving the prime interest rate at 9 percent.
2012/01/20
The next big thing in green lighting for homes it seems will be LEDs which can save up to 80 percent of the electricity used by incandescent bulbs.
2012/01/20
Agents who continue to bury their head in the sand and refuse to conform with the Consumer Protection Act could end up on the losing end of the deal
2012/01/20
A pool should be fully integrated with the landscape of your garden, which means the location you choose needs to be just right from the start...
2012/01/23
Do you want the look of a stainless steel kitchen, without the price tag? Here is a simple cost effective way to update your kitchen appliances…
2012/01/20
A kitchen makeover can be costly, but there are certain things you can do to reduce the renovation bill while still creating your dream kitchen...
2012/01/24
The value of building plans passed by larger municipalities increased by R1 774.5m from January to November 2011, with small stand sizes favoured.
2012/01/23
An extensive investigation will reveal whether there has been an inappropriate use of funds by Limpopo’s provincial office.
2012/01/23
Relief is in sight for indigent East London ratepayers as the Buffalo City Metro prepares to write off nearly R63 million in unpaid rates.
2012/01/24
Judgment relating to the tax deductibility of certain costs in respect of a prison constructed and operated as part of a public private partnership.
2012/01/23
One of the world’s leading estate agencies, the Engel & Völkers Group commission revenues exceeded 200 million Euros for the first time.
2012/01/25
Private equity investment in African projects is fast gaining recognition as a unique vehicle for investors to reap emerging market benefits.
2012/01/23
On 24 January, three commercial properties in the Western Cape will hit the auction floor as investors bid to get a slice of these jewels.
2012/01/25
Less fortunate children at the Charisma Church centre in Mamelodi benefited from the Engel & Völkers rewards function held in October last year.
2012/01/24
The Durban CBD has emerged as the location offering cheap office rental properties with gross asking rentals of R45 per square metre for C grade.
2012/01/23
Contrary to the stereotype of darkest Africa, South Africa is not high on the list of the most dangerous places to visit, according to a report.
2012/01/24
A 16.0 percent decrease in the total number of civil summonses issued for debt was recorded for the three months ended November 2011.
2012/01/24
South African citizens over the age of 21 with a total household income of less than R3 500 per month can apply for an RDP house.
2012/01/24
Public Enterprises Minister Malusi Gigaba has urged South Africans to use electricity wisely in order to secure a sustainable future for the country
2012/01/23
South African property experts remain cautiously optimistic and believe the commercial property sector is more promising than last year.
2012/01/23
The decision to keep the interest rate stable leaves plenty of choice for those buying property this year from prime coastal stands to mansions...
2012/01/23
Take a look at the best ways to keep your home cool in summer without using the air conditioner. These tips will save you both energy and money…
2012/01/25
The iconic Sandton City Shopping Centre located in the financial district of Sandton in Johannesburg first opened its doors on 12 September 1973.
2012/01/25
Government has appealed to South Africans to refrain from buying land from bogus sellers as they will lose their money.
2012/01/24
Cloning your favourite plant from a cutting takes far less time than growing plants from seeds, and it costs next to nothing. Here’s how it’s done…
2012/01/25
Scatter cushions transform any living area from dull to vibrant instantly. Here’s a quick do-it-yourself guide…
2012/01/25
At least 22 percent of property sellers were downscaling due to financial pressure with 27 percent of sellers in the lower income end of the market.
2012/01/25
Vodacom unveiled its completed Vodafone Site Solutions Innovation Centre yesterday, the first ever 6-star Green Star SA rated building.
2012/01/25
There are certain things that trigger allergies in and around the home and taking steps to allergy-proof your environment can make a big difference.
2012/01/26
Is there a constant queue outside your bathroom door? Adding an additional bathroom will allow a home to function better and enhance its value…
2012/01/26
When it first opened in 1973, Sandton City had a Gross Lettable Area of 50 000sqm, 120 stores over four levels and 2 500 parking bays. Read on...
2012/01/26
In today’s property market many young buyers may be facing more obstacles than their counterparts from the older generations.
2012/01/26
The Parliamentary portfolio committee on human settlements has decided to redraft the proposed Rental Housing Amendment Bill, says the chairwoman.
2012/01/26
Property experts and economists have been saying house prices will remain in single digits with all eyes on South Africa’s economic growth.
2012/01/26
Homeowners planning improvements should budget for it to cost at least 30% more than they originally estimated and be careful not to overcapitalise.
2012/01/27
The quality and integrity of the finish depends to a large extent on the preparation of the surface before you even open a tin of paint. Get tips...
2012/01/27
South African house prices are reportedly at least 25 percent overvalued with no vigorous growth expected according to property economist Erwin Rode
2012/01/31
The story, success and growth of the super-regional shopping centre that is Sandton City hinges on the property’s location. Read part 3...
2012/01/27
The quorum requirement may be a minimum number of members in person or the presence of members with certain positions or qualifications, or all...
2012/01/27
Seven trendy loft apartment blocks on the doorstep of Wits University will soon be unveiled, helping to meet the huge demand for student flats.
2012/01/27
The residential market has seen difficult times and there's likely to be more pain before there are any real gains, says an industry figure.
2012/01/27
Current conditions in the property market mean that landlords now really have “work smarter” to protect their investment and come out ahead.
2012/01/30
Freezing is a great way to preserve food to use at a later stage. However some foods freeze well, while others don’t. Here are some freezing tips…
2012/01/30
The Board of Inquiry looking into allegations of misconduct against National Police Commissioner Bheki Cele will host public hearings next month.
2012/01/30
House price growth recorded better than average figures in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape when compared to other provinces in 2011.
2012/01/30
Whether it’s a starter home, retirement cottage or luxury townhouse, you need to be careful to avoid disappointment when buying off-plan.
2012/01/30
Cape Town has been voted one of the 10 best places in the world to live, according to the UK Telegraph and Sotheby’s International Realty survey.
2012/01/30
With the South African economy expected to grow by less than 3 percent in 2012, all eyes will be on what the annual budget reveals on 22 February.
2012/01/31
It is wise for homeowners to reconsider their home insurance annually due to the fact that the property’s value and contents may have changed.
2012/01/30
A skylight will enhance the interior of your home letting in an abundance of natural light. Get a guide on the options available…
2012/01/31
Home buyers are advised to do their homework regarding costs and payments required before putting in an offer, so as to avoid a legal wrangle.
2012/01/31
The upgrade of the Tokai on Main shopping centre which includes a new, state-of-the-art 3500 square metre Food Lovers Market, is near completion.
2012/01/31
Fountainhead Property Trust has concluded an agreement for the acquisition of Centurion Boulevard from Sanlam Life Insurance.
2012/01/31
Citrus trees are relatively easy to grow and offer great aesthetic appeal. Here are some tips for planting, growing and caring for these trees…