ANDREW GOLDING That there was no relief in interest rates in November was a disappointment. However, the residential property market is recovering, albeit slowly.
PROPERTY OUTLOOK Money is tight; affordability is the key to the housing sector – not just in terms of buying, but also coming to grips with the ever-increasing cost of running a home.
INTEREST RATES A cautious monetary policy is understandable, but the economy needs growth to create jobs. Many economists feel that the Reserve Bank must cut interest rates.
SCALING DOWN Elderly widows and widowers are finding it increasingly necessary to move out of their large family homes. As a result of this "life stage" market, demand for retirement homes is rising.
RENTALS REVIVAL
Pam Golding Properties' agents report that business is brisk in the rentals market. Landlords are experiencing higher returns and better tenants.
TIGHTEN YOUR BELTS
Government needs more cash and the Finance Minister warns of a period of austerity ahead. This could mean heavier taxation – but South Africans already shoulder a high tax burden.
ISLAND STYLE
There is a steady flow of South Africans buying homes in Mauritius – not just luxury villas, but also stylish apartments. Depending on the price of the property, permanent residence is available.
PROVINCIAL PATTERNS
The residential property market profile of the country's nine regions varies considerably. But economic powerhouse Gauteng is the most stable.
LEGAL ISSUES
The law does not recognise that individuals have a right to a view. But are there ways and means by which one can deal with this issue? Attorneys STBB discuss a recent court case.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
No fireworks at present. Both office and industrial vacancies remain uncomfortably high. But listed property is still showing acceptable returns.
SOLE MANDATES
In these difficult times hard-pressed sellers tend to think that a "spread" of competing agents will help them close a quicker deal. Why a sole mandate is in fact a better route to take.
