Articles published in November 2011
2011/11/01
A Property24 reader asks what to consider before buying a sectional title property? An expert gives tips on what every buyer needs to know...
2011/11/01
Kitchen islands serve as a functional element of kitchen design opening up valuable floor, countertop and seating space, so think out of the box...
2011/11/01
The World Bank has granted power utility Eskom a $250 million loan (about R1.9 billion) for its Eskom Renewables Energy Support Project.
2011/11/01
Government has called on beneficiaries of its Human Settlements programme to desist from selling their government-subsidised RDP houses.
2011/11/01
South African house price growth declined to 4.5 percent in October from 5.1 percent in September, according to the October FNB House Price Index.
2011/11/01
Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed property company Growthpoint Properties has signed a 10 year lease with the Protea Hotel in Roodepoort.
2011/11/02
Growth in the value of household mortgage balances in South Africa is reported to have slowed down in September compared with a year ago.
2011/11/02
Live the dream with Property24 and join our virtual neighbourhood. Pick and choose where you want to live and get in line to win amazing prizes...
2011/11/02
Rural Development and Land Reform Minister, Gugile Nkwinti says rural communities need to take charge of their development to achieve goals.
2011/11/02
The thought of special levies is unwelcome news for most sectional title property owners. So how does it work and what rights do owners have?
2011/11/02
South African property investors buying homes to let are taking a wait-and-see approach as the rental market is not offering much capital growth.
2011/11/03
In a property market cycle where some are seemingly battling to sell property, others have found a niche market and continue to defy the odds.
2011/11/04
Tiling any area of the home will automatically give it a new lease on life. Here are two top tile tips to will help you choose the right tiles...
2011/11/03
The modern look can be achieved successfully through understanding how decor styles work. Here are some tips on how to attain this décor style...
2011/11/03
The new Minister for the Department of Public Works Thembelani Nxesi says he is ready to address the many challenges facing his department.
2011/11/03
The North West Department of Human Settlements has forked out more than R1.2 billion to reduce the housing backlog in the province.
2011/11/03
The fall in the rand value against the US Dollar, British Pound and Euro in the past few months has rekindled overseas interest in SA property.
2011/11/03
Construction of the R60 million green building at Route 21 Corporate Park in Pretoria is scheduled for completion at the end of this year.
2011/11/04
Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed property company, Redefine Properties, posted a distribution of 68 cents per linked unit for the year to August.
2011/11/04
South African consumers can expect to pay almost 30 percent more for electricity if the proposed carbon tax is implemented.
2011/11/04
Pan Africa Shopping Centre in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg has announced plans to expand thanks to demand from retailers and shoppers.
2011/11/04
South African house prices are expected to continue to decline in the rest of 2011 and into 2012 on the back of rising consumer price inflation.
2011/11/05
A home is where you settle down for the long-term, which is why learning to love your home is vital. Here are ways to ensure happiness at home…
2011/11/04
All new buildings and all extensions to existing buildings in South Africa must conform to the new regulations on energy conservation as from 9 Nov.
2011/11/11
If you need to inject colour into your home but can’t stand the thought of painting, then here are some easier solutions for you to try...
2011/11/07
When a home becomes too small it is often cheaper to extend than it is to move. But home extensions need careful consideration...
2011/11/07
Agriculture Minister, Tina Joemat-Pettersson has responded to media reports regarding her expensive luxury hotel bills during her state visits.
2011/11/07
Many of South Africa's consumers with bad credit records are unable to secure home loan finance to enable them to buy property, according to ooba.
2011/11/07
There is a need for consumers to be taught more about their consumer rights and the Consumer Protection Act, says Trevor Manuel.
2011/11/08
The nominal value of medium-sized and large homes in South Africa improved further in October while values of smaller homes contracted, says Absa.
2011/11/08
A landmark shopping centre, the South Coast Mall in Shelly Beach will go under the hammer at the next commercial multiple auction on 23 November.
2011/11/08
A fresh take on restaurants and food shopping will make Nicolway Bryanston Shopping Centre a favourite foodie destination when it opens next year.
2011/11/08
It is important to act fast to protect your investment if your sectional title managing agent or trustees are not doing their job properly.
2011/11/09
It is unlikely that the South African Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Committee will cut interest rates during its last meeting for the year.
2011/11/08
Freshening up an outdated bathroom can add value to a home and you can get between 65% and 75% of the renovation cost back, says an industry figure.
2011/11/08
Not sure if your decorating personality is modern, bohemian or country? Here is a decorating overview which can help distinguish your décor taste…
2011/11/09
As children get older they tend to monopolise the TV, but you needn’t feel like a visitor in your own home. Create a space just for them...
2011/11/10
The Western Cape Institute of Estate Estate Agents has stepped up training for 2012 with courses for newbies and agents wishing to update skills.
2011/11/11
The six month UCT (Law@Work) Sectional Title Scheme Management course is the benchmark training course for anybody involved in sectional title...
2011/11/09
Hotels and resorts group Sun International has entered into a 20-year lease agreement with the Cavaleros Group for the lease of the Grayston Hotel.
2011/11/09
Now is a good time to buy distressed and repossessed properties thanks to low interest rates and available stock in the property market.
2011/11/10
It's vital homeowners consider the rebuild cost when insuring their property, rather than the market value, to avoid being severely underinsured.
2011/11/09
Newly appointed Public Works Minister Thembelani Nxesi has announced measures to tighten the department’s lease procurement procedures.
2011/11/11
Today Table Mountain could be named one of the New7Wonders of Nature, an accolade that could generate up to 11 000 jobs. You can still vote...
2011/11/10
Mosaics can be used in many innovative ways to transform a multitude of surfaces and add striking décor effects. Get some fun tips...
2011/11/10
Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has described media reports about his “lavish hotel stays” as malicious lies, incorrect and misleading.
2011/11/10
The trend is towards smaller homes which are in every way less expensive with other benefits like better community spirit and social interaction.
2011/11/10
Property buyers who invest in the Urban Development Zones such as the Taj residence in Cape Town are able to benefit from tax rebates.
2011/11/11
Renowned South African architects dhk Architects are a recipient of an award for their work and design of the University of the Western Cape.
2011/11/10
The South African Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Committee has decided to leave the repurchase rate unchanged at 5.5 percent per annum.
2011/11/11
Tiffindell Ski Resort located in the Southern Drakensberg is to go under the hammer on 23 November after months of legal wrangling.
2011/11/11
South African power utility Eskom says the power system in the country remains tight and will continue to be so for the next two years.
2011/11/14
The prospect of selling a home can be overwhelming and while most choose to use an agent, making a good selection means asking the right questions.
2011/11/11
Turning your outdoor area into a cosy retreat needn’t cost a fortune and can be done simply and quickly. Have fun with these ideas...
2011/11/11
From small household repairs to decluttering your your car and freezing your pillows - here are ten top tips for home living...
2011/11/14
The decision by the Reserve Bank to maintain the repo rate at 5.5 percent is one of the many reasons to have confidence in the property market.
2011/11/14
Make the most of a bathroom by transforming your shower into a wet room. With no boundaries, you can design the perfect space with these tips…
2011/11/14
Table Mountain was provisionally named a New 7 Wonder of Nature following a 3-year global race to choose the world's 7 most wonderful natural sites.
2011/11/14
Middelburg Mall is poised to be Mpumalanga’s premier shopping destination and is already 95 percent let, well before its opening in April 2012.
2011/11/15
Is it possible to sue the Home Owners Association management board for not running the HOA correctly? Is this advisable or are there alternatives?
2011/11/14
Doing the laundry often creates a problem we all hate - static! Ensure static-free clothes with the help of a few household items...
2011/11/15
Wealthy local and international property buyers are reportedly snapping up homes in Cape Town’s sought-after suburbs of Clifton and Bantry Bay.
2011/11/14
A new real estate industry initiative is set to spearhead digital development and REASA appoints Property24.com as its technology and media partner.
2011/11/18
A loft bed is an ideal way to add more space to just about any bedroom. With a little know-how you can build one yourself in weekend...
2011/11/15
I own a sectional title flat and there has been water leakage from the flat above resulting in flooding - the owner won’t cooperate. Please help!
2011/11/15
Jewel City, which consists of six city blocks in the eastern part of the Johannesburg CBD is undergoing a major revamp at a cost of R40 million.
2011/11/16
Adding natural elements to both interior and exterior walls is a great way to add a little texture and detail to an otherwise bland room.
2011/11/17
Prospective property sellers and buyers are warned to be careful when dealing with several estate agents who are marketing the same property.
2011/11/15
Holiday homeowners keen to capitalise on rentals from their properties over the holiday season should insure adequately against damage and liability
2011/11/15
The Rawson Property Group’s expansion programme has taken a quantum leap forward with the establishment of their first franchise beyond South Africa
2011/11/16
It would seem there is a growing trend in the USA and SA for commercial property investors to increasingly opt to pay cash for properties.
2011/11/16
Listed property has shown itself to be a top performer for South African investors outperforming equity returns by 15% over the past three years.
2011/11/17
Attorneys throughout SA are working at providing clients with some means of protection from the ramifications of the new Consumer Protection Act.
2011/11/15
The time has come to take on the challenge of re-organising your closet, so here are 7 steps to help turn a closet nightmare into a storage dream...
2011/11/18
Body corporate trustees often fail to realise the disastrous effects of allowing members to fall behind on their levy payments.
2011/11/16
As of 9 November 2011 all new buildings and refurbishments in South Africa must comply with minimum standards of energy efficiency.
2011/11/18
If you have been thinking about investing in real estate in Africa, now would be a good time to invest because the continent is poised for growth.
2011/11/16
A multi-property auction offering a range of primary and leisure residences will be held on Sunday 20 November at the Pecanwood clubhouse at 14h00.
2011/11/17
Increase the life expectancy of your appliances by applying these correct cleaning methods to your stove, fridge, dishwasher and washing machine.
2011/11/17
Many property buyers and investors are using the auction route looking to uncover the next great deal. But there are some essential need-to-knows...
2011/11/16
The year 1976 is a historic period in South Africa and that of the birth of arguably one of South Africa’s leading agencies, Pam Golding Properties.
2011/11/18
Generally speaking “bigger is better” is usually the way to go, but for optimum viewing your TV should also be in proportion to the room size...
2011/11/18
The new maximum 24 month rental clause is likely to see the end of long leases but many landlords are still "blissfully unaware of it".
2011/11/18
Land reform in SA has not been handled properly and a change in approach is needed, said the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform.
2011/11/18
South African house price growth is expected to remain subdued and in low single digits in nominal terms well into 2012, according to Standard Bank.
2011/11/21
Values of both residential and commercial property are expected to fall in the next year and those considering investing should remain wary.
2011/11/21
Quoin Rock Winery and Manor Estate, which belonged to businessman Dave King, is said to be the highest value liquidation auction in the Western Cape
2011/11/21
Listed property in South Africa has performed well and listed property companies accounted for 18 percent in the country’s top 50 companies.
2011/11/21
Construction of twelve apartments located close to the beachfront in Hout Bay, Cape Town is underway with prices starting from R1.495 million.
2011/11/21
Sectional title landlords carry full responsibility for their tenant’s conduct and are liable for any fines imposed on them.
2011/11/21
The South African total income for the accommodation industry for the third quarter of 2011 decreased by 1.2 percent compared with Q3 2010.
2011/11/21
Living green is a lifestyle choice that saves the environment and your wallet. Follow these 6 tips for a cheaper, more efficient and greener life…
2011/11/25
Panel blinds can be used for window treatments anywhere in the home - even to section off areas within rooms. Give them a try, you'll be hooked...
2011/11/22
Chicken is a popular food to prepare at home. However there are do's and don'ts when it comes to freezing, defrosting, handling and cooking chicken.
2011/11/22
Building activity in the South African housing market showed some improvement in the third quarter of the year compared to the same period in 2010.
2011/11/22
South African power utility Eskom has launched a solar photovoltaic installation at its large coal fired Lethabo Power Station in the Free State.
2011/11/22
A report has revealed that electricity costs remain the single biggest operating cost contributor of operating costs with a rapid growth rate.
2011/11/22
In a recent case the voetstoots clause was upheld in court on the grounds that the seller was ignorant and was not aware of the defect.
2011/11/23
Property bequests in deceased estates quite often run into legal snags because of ignorance or a misunderstanding of the relevant legislation.
2011/11/22
South African voluntary distressed house sales grew in the third quarter and significant discounts are up for grabs for those buying these homes.
2011/11/22
The court has ordered that the cancellation of the franchise agreement involving Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International must settled by arbitration.
2011/11/23
Africa’s iconic Sandton City Shopping Centre opened its R1.77 billion first phase expansion project on 10 November with added retail offerings.
2011/11/23
Would-be home buyers and investors wanting to cash in on bargains should position themselves at the upcoming auctions in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
2011/11/23
The City of Johannesburg aims to improve the accuracy of its billing system and its customer service over the next few years.
2011/11/23
The Wild Banana Leaf Canopy is expected to be a highlight at the Climate Change Response Expo to be held in Durban at the end of the month.
2011/11/24
The steps you take during the first 24 hours after a flood are critical in avoiding any further damage caused. Recover and rebuild with these tips…
2011/11/24
Tenants renting properties priced at less than R3 000 and more than R12 000 per month are reportedly hit by inflation and high cost of borrowing.
2011/11/23
Herbs are easy to grow and need little care. Here are some tips on how to grow your own delicious herbs from the comfort of your kitchen…
2011/11/23
As with any property investment, leisure buyers need to establish a few key factors that will influence their return on investment potential.
2011/11/24
There has been an overall improvement in the level of home maintenance in South Africa since 2009 although property upgrades remain weak, says FNB.
2011/11/24
The eThekwini Municipality says the COP17/CMP7 Responsible Accommodation Campaign could help boost the city’s image as a green events destination.
2011/11/24
First impressions are important especially when showing your property to potential buyers. Always highlight your home’s best features...
2011/11/24
A sofa is a long term investment, one which requires regular care, cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking good as new. Here are a few tips…
2011/11/25
Long gone are the days of boring white or beige walls. Grey is now the neutral colour of choice, giving a more dramatic effect to your walls...
2011/11/25
The overhang of residential property's shadow inventory is massive and will likely weigh on market dynamics for the next 18 to 24 months.
2011/11/25
Retailer Pick n Pay has announced the opening of its third Zambian store in Lusaka, further signalling the group's confidence in the Zambian economy
2011/11/25
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in October rose to 6 percent reaching the upper end of the target range, Statistics South Africa said.
2011/11/25
South African consumers are urged to save money for home deposits if renting or use extra cash towards mortgage repayments.
2011/11/25
Homeowners in Plettenberg Bay hoping to sell their properties during the upcoming holiday season need to review their asking prices urgently.
2011/11/25
Set the festive atmosphere in your home and delight your kids by celebrating the Christmas countdown with these few easy-to-make advent calendars…
2011/11/28
When investing in a home theatre, remember that sound is half the experience. Here is some sound advice for selecting the perfect set of speakers…
2011/11/28
Winner of the world's Best Luxury Game Lodge award, this 5 star safari residence in the North West Province is designed to enchant its visitors.
2011/11/29
With over 20 years of experience in the property industry, Seeff Pretoria East's older estate agents are the big deal and continue to excel.
2011/11/28
Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) listed loan stock property company Redefine Properties will focus on quality properties in its portfolio.
2011/11/29
Property developers can go completely green or partially green when building without selling the family farm or spending lots of money.
2011/11/28
Those selling property must be in possession of an Electrical Certificate of Compliance and those buying should be sure to check its validity.
2011/11/28
Second tier economies in rural and township areas offer plum opportunities for shopping centres because of saturation in traditional upmarket areas.
2011/11/28
Aida National Franchises has acquired a new office in Fish Hoek with the conversion of an existing estate agency.
2011/11/28
Transnet’s R100bn plan to turn Durban’s former international airport site into a dug-out port is positive for the property market in Amanzimtoti.
2011/11/30
Unlike residential tenants, 81 percent of commercial tenants are said to be in good standing compared to 73 percent in the same period in 2010.
2011/11/28
The historic landmark Newspaper House property in the Cape Town CBD was sold last week by Auction Alliance for R86 million.
2011/11/29
Regulations for the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act with emphasis on B-BBEE scorecard to secure government tenders will soon be law.
2011/11/29
Although demand for commercial property rentals is lacklustre currently, some areas in Johannesburg have seen an increased demand for office space.
2011/11/29
In a world where environmental sustainability is key to the survival of future generations, communities need to protect natural resources.
2011/11/30
A reader says the noise caused by an alarm in the unit next door is driving him crazy, but the owner is overseas and won't respond. What can he do?
2011/11/30
December has exciting news for shoppers at the Mall of the North wih Australian fashion brands Country Road and Trenery opening in Woolworths.
2011/11/29
Wooden windows and doors add a beautiful aesthetic to any home, and if they are well maintained, they can last a lifetime. Here are some tips…
2011/11/30
Painting your own gorgeous headboard on the wall behind your bed is inexpensive to do, and should only take a day to complete. Here’s how...
2011/11/30
While some estate agents report a slowdown in property buying, others are experiencing a boom especially in new residential property developments.
2011/11/30
Add a touch of gold to your home décor as a winning choice for a luxurious interior update. Here are some tips on how to add gold tastefully…
2011/11/30
Investec Property will undertake a massive refurbishment and development expansion of Makro’s distribution centre in Midrand, north of Johannesburg.