Can trustees sell trust property to their own company?
The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) recently deliberated on whether a court sanction is necessary to validate the sale of shares owned by a trust to a company controlled indirectly by two of the trustees of the trust. This matter was addressed in the case of Kuttel vs Master of the High Court and Others. Peter […]
Township Property: An Untapped Market?
Much has been written about the residential property markets in South Africa’s iconic cities: Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. But what of the largest townships in or adjacent to each of these cities: Soweto, Umlazi, and Khayelitsha? While the glossy brochures and media headlines often focus on city skylines and prime real estate, there’s a […]
The Rental Housing Tribunal: The Unsung Hero of South Africa’s Rental Market
Renting or leasing a home should be simple, but when it turns into a headache, the Rental Housing Tribunal (RHT) steps in to help. Established under the Rental Housing Act No. 50 of 1999, the tribunal provides a free, fair, and accessible way for landlords and tenants to resolve disputes, without the stress or cost […]
Downsizing for Retirement: Making the Move That Makes Sense
Less space. More freedom. As retirement approaches or the kids move out, many homeowners start to rethink their living space. Downsizing isn’t just about getting a smaller home—it’s about choosing a space that suits your new lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to simplify maintenance, cut costs, or enjoy a slower pace in a more comfortable setting, […]
A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House in South Africa
Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but without proper guidance, the process can be daunting. South Africa’s property market has unique legal and financial steps that buyers must follow. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, this guide will walk you through each stage, from securing financing to transferring ownership, ensuring a […]
Navigating Property Disputes: A Guide for Owners and Tenants
Property disagreements can be stressful and costly if not handled effectively. Whether you’re a homeowner, tenant, or landlord, understanding common disputes and how to prevent them can save you significant time and money. Common Property Disputes You Might Encounter Property disputes usually revolve around ownership, usage, or responsibility for a property. These can occur in […]
Protecting Your Home
Top tips for choosing the right security company. Crime is a pressing concern in South Africa, and securing your home adequately is crucial. A robust security system, backed up by reliable response and maintenance teams, is a strong deterrent against criminal activity. It reduces the likelihood of break-ins, theft, and violent crime, giving you greater […]
Are You Ready to Step onto the Property Ladder?
Choosing the right time to go from renting to buying. Deciding when to transition from renting to buying can be daunting—and in the current economic climate, even those with the financial means to do so are unsure if now is the right time to do so. While there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer, there are several […]
Divorce and Immovable Property: Understanding the Section 45bis(1)(a) Endorsement Application
When a person married in community of property is awarded their former spouse’s share in jointly owned property following a divorce, they can apply to the registrar of deeds for an endorsement of the title deed. This endorsement records that the applicant is now the sole owner of the property and can deal with it […]
Five Residential Property Trends No One Saw Coming
Experts have already predicted the top property trends of 2024, ranging from the impact of looming interest rate cuts to co-buying, solar power financing, sectional title demand and the resurgence of first-time homebuyers. However, several emerging (and sometimes overlooked) trends are set to come into play, creating notable shifts in the landscape. The top five […]