CURRENT AFFAIRS Keeping the home fires (lights) burning next year will be but one burden facing
consumers. Escom’s financial dilemma has to be dealt with, but there are other likely
set-backs to the rising cost of living.
GOING, GOING... Misrepresentation, even unintentional, can void a property transaction. Two recent court cases involving auctions illustrate the pitfalls involved in not getting the facts straight.
HOME COMFORTS The long-term rentals market continues to thrive, although regional trends differ. The big conundrum is whether the Soccer World Cup will be a bonanza for individual homeowners. So far, reaction has been quiet.
LOOKING ON THE BRIGHT SIDE PGP’s Chief Executive Dr Andrew Golding senses a growing mood of optimism, a feeling that 2010, the year of the Soccer World Cup, will see South Africa back on the right economic track.
SUNNY SIDE UP At present the rebates Escom gives to homeowners to install solar energy to heat water are pretty marginal, compared to the costs. Perhaps the charges by approved installers bear inspection.
TRANSPARENCY NEEDED The interest rate hiatus has disappointed many, particularly the trade unions who face a growing clamour from the jobless. The debate on rates would be clearer and of greater use if the Reserve Bank would share its deliberations.