Articles published in October 2011
2011/10/03
Is there a period after which previously introduced buyers are able to purchase the property without the seller having to pay the original agent?
2011/10/03
South African estate agents say unreasonable and overpricing of properties by many unrealistic sellers results in homes taking longer to sell.
2011/10/02
There are some inexpensive upgrades that could increase your chances of selling your property fast and help you stand out from the competition.
2011/10/03
How does an owner in a sectional title scheme go about getting a carport erected over their parking bay and what approval is required?
2011/10/03
South African summer is underway and there is a lot to do to help your garden look its best. Here is a list of the top things to do in October…
2011/10/03
If you’re selling your property make sure it is looking its best for show day. Get some useful tips to help your home stand out from the rest...
2011/10/04
Turn your old suitcases into a stylish retro bed for your cat. This easy DIY project will only take a few hours to complete, here’s how...
2011/10/04
Property sellers are warned to be wary of estate agents who promise a higher price based on hot air and a lower commission once the home is sold.
2011/10/04
News of the proposed amendments to the Municipal Property Rates Bill came as a shock to the real estate industry and multiple property investors.
2011/10/04
Embattled Public Works Minister Gwen Mahlangu-Nkabinde is to approach Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan for help in cleaning up her department.
2011/10/04
The number of black people entering the South African residential property market is said to have increased as the socio-economic tables turn.
2011/10/04
Yellow is a popular colour for home decor as it warms up cool and dark spaces. Keep in mind these important guidelines to when using yellow...
2011/10/05
Just under 50 percent of South Africans have poor credit records, but by taking the right steps they can still get a bond, says an industry figure.
2011/10/05
South African estate agents view distressed properties as good bargain buys while some reckon these are bad for the real estate market recovery.
2011/10/05
The lack of new housing stock coming into the market is reportedly driving growth of and pushing rentals up in the residential market.
2011/10/05
A well-planned conversion can be the quickest and most affordable way to add extra living space to a home - or maybe a flatlet, gym, playroom...
2011/10/05
When a potential buyer drives by a property for sale the first impression does count and will likely determine whether they view the home or not.
2011/10/05
Nedbank was awarded the four-star rating for green office design for its new regional head office currently underway at Menlyn Maine in Pretoria.
2011/10/05
Decorating a teen’s room can be a difficult task, but if you tap into these trendy tips and suggestions you may just avoid the dreaded ‘eye roll’...
2011/10/03
South African house prices did not record any growth according to the September FNB Property Barometer House Price Index report.
2011/10/06
A reader asks if his landlord can enforce a clause that he had only 5 days to report defects. Find out what can and can't be included in a lease...
2011/10/06
Property24 recently announced its acquisition of the online property portal business, SAHometraders, extending the offerings of both companies...
2011/10/06
Toyota SA motors parts distribution centre in Ekurhuleni near OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng is Investec Property’s latest R363m project.
2011/10/06
A planned R1.6 billion Cape Town CBD office development is set to encourage more property developments to make use of the UDZ Tax Incentives.
2011/10/06
The natural wood grain pattern can be imitated using a technique dating back to Roman times. Try this painting technique on items in your home...
2011/10/07
South African property prices continued to show relatively low growth in September 2011, according to the latest Absa House Price Indices report.
2011/10/07
Find out how to make the perfect charcoal braai and get some handy cooking and preparation tips from the experts...
2011/10/07
There are many ways of creating space without actually changing the size of a room. Read how to make the most of the space you have...
2011/10/09
With a few simple guidelines and a little imagination, creating different table décor looks can be easy. Mix here and match there...
2011/10/07
Gauteng, South Africa’s economic powerhouse is said to have shown little price deflation during the 2009 period of national house price decline.
2011/10/07
The Grace Hotel in Rosebank, Johannesburg which was closed down in August has been sold to Southern Sun Hotel Group for R85 million.
2011/10/07
The Democratic Alliance wants those who live on communally owned land, mainly the former homelands, to have full individual ownership of land.
2011/10/07
JSE-listed The Don Group is changing its business model in view of growing opportunities identified in the broader property industry sector.
2011/10/10
South Africa’s Census 2011 begins today and homeowners should follow these tips in dealing with enumerators who come to their homes.
2011/10/10
With 32 days to go, the awaited R1.77 billion first phase of the Sandton City Shopping Centre redevelopment project is on track to please shoppers.
2011/10/10
If you want to make money out of the shopping centre business, make sure the tenant mix is diversified and excites shoppers in the area.
2011/10/10
A reader says his partner will take over the property but he has been told she will not be exempt from paying transfer costs. An expert advises...
2011/10/10
When buying property there are some must-haves that will help you make a sound investment in a home you will love living in.
2011/10/10
This alluring bathroom décor inspired by Sophiatown culture during the 1940s and 1950s is glamorous, elegant and dazzling in its use of colours...
2011/10/10
When buying a property it is wise to take some time to 'shop around' for your homeowners insurance and be sure to check you are properly covered.
2011/10/11
An FNB Home Loans research report revealed 23 percent of homeowners in South Africa sell their homes in order to downscale due to life stage.
2011/10/11
A Property24 reader asks what would happen with a jointly owned property if a husband passes away - would a wife have to pay transfer duty?
2011/10/11
Those who have defaulted on sectional title levy payments should make sure they communicate with the body corporate or face serious consequences.
2011/10/11
The days of using any means to remove tenants are over. Tenants have rights, and if landlords abuse them, they can’t expect sympathy from courts.
2011/10/14
Match your home décor perfectly by making an expensive looking dining table from laminate flooring. Read on to follow this easy DIY guide...
2011/10/13
Sunshine can be great but when you want a rest from the heat, there is nothing like a pretty awning or sunshade to keep you fresh and cool.
2011/10/12
Growth in SA commercial property returns stagnated in the first half of 2011, due to the slowdown and uncertainty in the local and global economy.
2011/10/16
More than a fashionable paint effect, stripes can be used to give an illusion of width, length and height to a room. Follow these stripe tricks...
2011/10/12
Home sellers can cut up to two months off the average time it takes to sell a property by getting the asking price right from the start.
2011/10/12
It is important that new owners of property check the rates account is properly registered in their name to avoid billing problems at a later stage.
2011/10/12
Financial pressure downscaling is on the decrease indicating a possible improvement in the management of debt-to-disposable income according to FNB.
2011/10/12
A global private equity investor has notched up a landmark R1 billion committed in the South African affordable housing market.
2011/10/12
Property24 readers frequently send queries about what exactly a sole or open mandate means, which is better and what happens when it expires...
2011/10/12
The hard part about choosing a décor style for your home is implementing it. Here are 6 essential style tips to help you achieve that new look...
2011/10/13
Now that you’re selling your home you need to aim to make the best impression on potential buyers and a few changes can make a big difference.
2011/10/13
South African house price growth slowed in September and growth is expected to remain in low single digits in nominal terms into 2012.
2011/10/13
The Department of Human Settlements has received yet another clean audit, making it the 17th year in a row that it has achieved the feat.
2011/10/13
Readers frequently report instances where essential maintenance is not carried out by trustees of sectional title schemes. But what to do?
2011/10/17
A first in SA, the Retirement Expo, now only a few weeks away, will showcase options available for retirees from retirement property to travel...
2011/10/13
The multi-million rand ‘Ipanema’ apartment development in the heart of Houghton has already seen 40 of the 68 sectional title units being sold.
2011/10/14
As part of the Habitat for Humanity South Africa (HFHSA) Blitz Build Project 2011, Nedbank Home Loans built homes for 3 families costing R300 000.
2011/10/14
Despite the property fallout, property investors can not only survive but actually flourish during these difficult times, says an industry figure.
2011/10/14
The regulations require all new buildings, whether homes, industrial buildings, hotels or schools to meet minimum energy efficiency requirements.
2011/10/14
Sandton City Shopping Centre recently honoured top trading retailers at the Annual Tenant Excellence awards ceremony held at the Sandton Sun Hotel.
2011/10/17
No more booms in growth are likely to be seen in the commercial property sector, however, a gradual recovery is very much on the way according Absa.
2011/10/14
Induction cooktops provide energy efficient, convenient cooking and instantaneous heat. Find out all about the benefits of induction technology...
2011/10/14
White a popular colour for home décor because of it’s versatility for any room. Make the best of a white décor scheme with these tips...
2011/10/18
A vertical wall terrarium is an easy way to bring the outdoors inside. Perfect for gifts or office decor, here’s how to make your own...
2011/10/17
The South African student accommodation property market is said to be buoyant and attracts investors, developers and private property buyers.
2011/10/17
The South African residential market showed a mild improvement and slight increase in demand in August according to the FNB Estate Agent Survey.
2011/10/18
FNB has begun construction of its regional office, One FNB Building, a R355 million office development in Menlyn in the City of Tshwane in Gauteng.
2011/10/17
Research anticipates that close on 10 million South Africans will be retiring in the next 25 years and investing in property has definite benefits.
2011/10/17
If there is one element in every home that deserves a little more attention, it's your floors. Get some handy tips for choosing the right rugs...
2011/10/17
Yes, you can tile over existing tiles. It’s an easy job, as long as the existing floor tiles are in good condition and the floor is level...
2011/10/18
South Africa is currently seeing poor office demand, wariness about support pillars of the industrial sector and weaker mortgage lending restraints.
2011/10/18
A Property24 reader says she is in dire straits because her landlord doesn’t have the cash to refund her deposit. What can she do to get it back?
2011/10/20
Stubborn home sellers are said to dominate in the residential market with some still refusing to adjust their asking price in line with the market.
2011/10/18
South African consumers are said to have renewed confidence in the retail market and a return to retail discretionary spending is being experienced.
2011/10/18
Many property sellers are reportedly “still unable to face reality” with regards to pricing their homes in today's sluggish market.
2011/10/19
Estate agents say property rentals are being pushed up by the shortage of new stock, lack of mortgage finance and the lack of buy-to-let investors.
2011/10/26
Don’t spend a fortune on glamorous chandelier lighting. You can easily make your own using an aluminium pole, some crystals and LED lights...
2011/10/19
The Cape High Court ruled in favour of Geffen International Realty Franchises (Pty) Ltd in its urgent application for a Rule Nisi judgement.
2011/10/18
Those looking to buy or sell property may have heard about the importance of fair market value. But what does it really mean?
2011/10/19
SA residential property developers who lease units before intended use can be pleased with legislation that provides temporary relief from VAT.
2011/10/19
Periscopic Property Management has been awarded the management contract for part of Vividend Income Fund’s property portfolio of nine properties.
2011/10/19
Here are three quick ways to add colour to a beige sofa. Try this trick the next time you want to add a new look to your lounge or living space.
2011/10/19
A Property24 reader asks how he can get trustees of his sectional title block to comply with the management rules. An expert advises...
2011/10/20
More people are renting and trustees of sectional title complexes need to ensure that appropriate rules are in place to avoid potential problems.
2011/10/19
It is estimated that almost three quarters of South Africans consider the price of petrol as a factor before making a property purchasing decision.
2011/10/20
Commercial property finance, Nedbank Corporate Property Finance has positioned itself as a leader in the green building movement in South Africa.
2011/10/20
Lights play an important part of the décor during Diwali. Here are some bright ideas on how to decorate your home in the Diwali tradition…
2011/10/20
Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) said the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in September rose to 5.7 percent higher from 5.3 percent in August.
2011/10/20
Residential property prices declined by 2 percent in September but estate agents say this is a perfect chance for first-time buyers to buy property.
2011/10/21
Occupants of government-owned houses in Boksburg north in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng said to be behaving badly will be kicked out says local municipality.
2011/10/21
A Property24 reader asks if his landlady can refuse to give official proof that his deposit has been lodged. An expert advises...
2011/10/21
South African residential building activity improved in the first eight months of 2011 compared to a year ago, according to the latest Absa report.
2011/10/21
Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed company, Woolworths Holdings Limited retail group aims to open 16 stores in other African countries this year.
2011/10/21
The South African retail property market returns remained resilient recording 0.4 percent of capital growth in the first six months of the year.
2011/10/21
Be more economical and receive hot water on demand by fitting a heat pump to your geyser. Warm up to big savings on your monthly electricity bill...
2011/10/24
The SA government has rejected suggestions that the renovations to official residences and offices of President Jacob Zuma are an extravagance.
2011/10/24
SA women should benefit most from land reform and rural development programmes as they constitute the majority of people living in rural areas.
2011/10/24
While some property sectors may be experiencing a tough time, the agricultural sector is reportedly booming thanks to the new wave of buyers.
2011/10/24
Given the sluggish property market, anyone selling their home should ensure they go the extra mile. Get creative with some innovative strategies...
2011/10/24
Total income for the South African accommodation industry increased by 2.5 percent in August to R1.708 billion from 1.6 percent in August 2010.
2011/10/25
A 21ha property in Roodepoort, Gauteng was sold for R85 million following the liquidation of controversial property moguls, the Theodosiou brothers.
2011/10/25
Mauritius is fast becoming a sought-after property investment destination with retailers signing up leases at the new regional mall.
2011/10/25
The Tax Administration Bill which was introduced to Parliament on 23 June aims to provide better coherence in South African tax administrative law.
2011/10/25
Personalise your walls with a customised wallpaper of your own choice. Here’s how to pick an image and install it professionally yourself...
2011/10/25
Many would-be property buyers wonder if they could find a 'bargain' by buying on auction. So how does a first-time buyer get started?
2011/10/24
Gwen Mahlangu-Nkabinde, Minister of Public Works was fired and is replaced by Thembelani Nxesi, deputy Minister for Rural Development & Land Reform.
2011/10/24
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson has spent 174 days staying at luxury hotels in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
2011/10/25
High electricity pricing could stunt South African economic growth and impact on its competitiveness, credit insurance group Coface said on Monday.
2011/10/25
South African investors who invested in property funds over the past three to five years invested well and are now smiling all the way to the bank.
2011/10/26
A further decline in the South African Reserve Bank leading indicator means weakness in the mortgage market and the value of new mortgages granted.
2011/10/26
Make sure you give your air conditioning unit a regular check to ensure it operates efficiently and provides clean, healthy air.
2011/10/26
Tenants' rights to cancel a lease at short notice could spell 'havoc' for landlords' financial planning, but there are measures to avoid the risk.
2011/10/26
Informal settlements in 45 large cities and towns in South Africa will be upgraded to improve living conditions and access to work opportunities.
2011/10/27
South African property owners and investors need to be patient as submissions for the proposed Municipal Property Rates Bill are being assessed.
2011/10/26
The Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan yesterday revealed plans to provide R25bn over the next six years to stimulate industrial development zones.
2011/10/26
Standard Bank continues to support the local housing market by financing almost half of all new home loans originated by banks in the past year.
2011/10/27
The South African industrial property vacancy rate improved to 4.2 percent from 5.4 percent in the first six months of 2010.
2011/10/27
Mole control can be a difficult and ongoing struggle in the garden. Find out the most proven way to control moles - with excellent results…
2011/10/27
Property sellers need to be careful of using the services of more than one estate agent because they could end up having to pay double commission.
2011/10/27
The South African middle income house segment is reportedly showing strong property fundamentals with house prices averaging close to R1 million.
2011/10/28
Home sellers should be wary of counter offers as this can result in the original offer becoming invalid when bargaining for a property sale.
2011/10/27
SA’s first-ever Retirement Expo debuts from 28 to 30 October at the Coca-Cola Dome and aims to inform and assist in planning for retirement.
2011/10/28
SA former Black Townships in the major metro areas continue to outperform the high priced house segments but experience slow house price growth.
2011/10/28
Children’s rooms need to be planned out well in order to pack everything into one space making them multi-purpose and flexible areas.
2011/10/28
The South African holiday property market is said to be suffering currently as property buyers choose to purchase primary residences instead.
2011/10/28
Kelly's Beach in Port Alfred has been awarded international Blue Flag status by the Wildlife and Environment Society of SA for the 7th year running.
2011/10/28
Establishing a romantic mood in the bedroom is not only achieved with effective lighting and colour choices, there are other tips to try...
2011/10/28
For now no improvement in the demand for office space is detectable, the latest issue of Rode's Report on the State of the SA property market shows.
2011/10/31
When a buyer still needs to sell their own property it is important that the agreement should not be ‘open-ended’. Get some helpful pointers...
2011/10/31
Recent amendments to the prescribed management rules, Annexure 8 of the Sectional Titles Act of 1986, were published and are seen as welcome.
2011/10/31
Property prices are falling quicker than many estate agents, banks or property owners would like to admit, says a leading industry figure.
2011/10/31
Whether building or renovating, your home’s windows can be one of its most attractive features. Just replacing windows can transform its appeal!
2011/10/31
There are few sellers in South Africa who sell in order to emigrate, according to the FNB survey on Emigration and Semi-Gration related to selling.
2011/10/31
FNB's total market share of new mortgage loans (FNB Home Loans and FNB Housing Finance) amounts to almost 20 percent of total current market share.