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Articles published in May 2012

 
Mall for Mahwelereng in Limpopo
02 May 2012
The densely populated area of Mahwelereng in the Limpopo Province is set to see the opening of its first shopping centre in November 2012.

Good housing improves occupants' lives
02 May 2012
More than 50 percent of South African households report an improvement in access to education and employment from the property they live in.

Nelson Mandela Legacy Bridge on track
02 May 2012
There has been significant progress in the construction of the 140m Nelson Mandela Legacy Bridge over the Mbashe River in the Eastern Cape.

Speak up on corruption: Public Works
02 May 2012
Public Works Minister Thembelani Nxesi has urged South African property professionals to speak up on corruption on dodgy property deals and leases.

5 key projects for Dbn-Jhb corridor
02 May 2012
Durban and Gauteng will be alive with work, as five key projects get under way in the next five years, says Minister of Transport Sibusiso Ndebele.

Real estate opportunities in Africa
02 May 2012
Africa’s collective GDP in 2020 is expected to reach $2.6 trillion, $1.4 trillion consumer spending and 128m households with discretionary income.

Tips for an outdoor clean-up
02 May 2012
Every now and again, it is a good idea to take on your garden and outdoor areas and give everything a good tidying up. Here are some pointers...

Easy DIY furniture repairs
02 May 2012
While restoring is usually a job for professionals, it's possible to tackle wear and tear on everyday items yourself. Here are some easy fixes...

BEE consortium to buy 47% of shares
03 May 2012
A Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) consortium will buy 47 percent of listed loan stock Dipula B-units in issue from Redefine Properties.

With low house price growth, buy now!
03 May 2012
South African house price growth accelerated in April from 8.1 percent in March to 8.6 percent in April year-on-year, according to FNB.

Outstanding mortgage balances grows
03 May 2012
The value of outstanding credit balances in the South African household sector increased by 6.8 percent year-on-year to R1 205 6 billion in March.

Landlords: Select tenants carefully
03 May 2012
With South Africans feeling the effects of on-going near-recessionary economic conditions, landlords have to be extra careful in selecting tenants.

Govt's take on saving for retirement
03 May 2012
SA’s retirement industry faces long reform as government considers plans to make retirement saving compulsory for all those who are employed.

SA shoppers boost malls' retail sales
03 May 2012
The South African retail property market is resilient despite cost pressures such as fuel, electricity and municipal rates that impact on consumers.

Sotheby’s expand in key luxury markets
03 May 2012
The Sotheby’s International Realty global network now encompasses more than 600 offices and almost 12 000 sales associates in 45 countries worldwide

How to be your own interior designer
03 May 2012
The best interiors are often done on a shoestring budget - it’s a matter of elbow grease and imagination. Here’s how to be your own decorator...

Aesthetic property refurbishments
03 May 2012
Redefine Properties reports that Phase 2 refurbishments of Jewel City, a high-security district in the Johannesburg CBD, have been completed.

Check your new home for defaults
03 May 2012
A common assumption made by consumers is that owners of newly built properties do not need to conduct thorough maintenance on their homes.

Agriculture plan to create employment
04 May 2012
The Gauteng Department of Agriculture has developed a bold plan that will create more jobs for the province’s unemployed women and youth.

Generation X most active home buyers
04 May 2012
A survey shows affordability is still affecting consumers' ability to buy property, while those between 31 and 45 will lead the market to recovery.

Buying vs. renting business properties
04 May 2012
Small and medium size business owners are urged to consider buying their own properties instead of renting them, according to Rawson Properties.

Delinquent tenant and agent – help!
04 May 2012
A Property24 reader says he’s had numerous ongoing problems with his tenant and the rental agent is in cahoots. An expert advises on what to do...

SA residential property market solid
04 May 2012
While reports on house prices and the property market in general predict doom and gloom, the future of the residential property market is solid.

Leisure properties to buy in Randburg
04 May 2012
The leisure property market in Randburg, Gauteng is expected to appreciate in value but is tied to the overall health of real estate.

R33bn investment for port operations
07 May 2012
Transnet Port Terminals has committed R33 billion to encourage economic growth and efficiencies in its port terminal management.

Bryanston's new green homes
07 May 2012
The suburb of Bryanston in the north of Johannesburg has unveiled the area’s first green power saving residential property development.

Estate agents go mobile at Property24
07 May 2012
With approximately 13 million South Africans accessing the Internet via their phones, a strong mobile presence has become a necessity for agents.

Electricity consumption decreased
07 May 2012
Seasonally adjusted electricity consumption decreased by 1.1 percent for the first quarter of 2012 compared with the fourth quarter of 2011.

Are you financially stressed? Read on
07 May 2012
Despite significant action by the banks to clear urgent property sale stock out of the market, the problem persists, says Seeff Properties.

Mixed use properties in demand
07 May 2012
Mixed use property developments defined as multi-purpose destinations that integrate different uses will increasingly become popular in future.

Africa property values set to grow
07 May 2012
Africa and other emerging economies are tipped as locations where property investors should look to for real growth in the next decade.

Outdoor gym in Soweto proves popular
07 May 2012
People are flocking to the outdoor gym at Petrus Molefe Eco Park, where regular morning aerobics classes are always full.

Kitchen splashback trends
07 May 2012
In today's modern kitchens a splashback has become an integral design feature, with various options and materials to choose from.

Soothing and warm bathrooms
07 May 2012
We all know how to heat the rest of our homes, but the solutions are not always so simple when it comes to the bathroom. Here are some options...

Arrowhead to buy +R660m of properties
08 May 2012
Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed property company Arrowhead Properties has concluded term sheets and is in advanced negotiations for over R660m.

Buy-to-let property market in SA weak
08 May 2012
Buy-to-let buying in South Africa remains weak showing only very mild improvement, according to the latest FNB Estate Agent Survey report.

Sandton & Bryanston offices in demand
08 May 2012
Uncertainty in the local and global economy, risks to inflation outlook and low levels of construction dampen prospects for commercial prop growth.

Would you buy an R80 millon property?
08 May 2012
Luxury designer and estate properties continue to attract a variety of buyers regardless of the price tag, according to estate agents.

UK’s bargain country properties
08 May 2012
SA's wealthiest citizens have since the late 1800s traditionally owned one or two properties in the United Kingdom and continue to buy country homes

Dream properties to suit all pockets
08 May 2012
South African property buyers seeking value for money and a complete lifestyle change are reportedly eyeing affordable homes in some smaller towns.

Save for a home deposit
08 May 2012
Your first step before entering into the property market should be saving towards a home deposit.

Check your credit profile
08 May 2012
Knowing your credit status is important when applying for your first home loan.

What home can you afford?
08 May 2012
Working out how much you can afford when buying a home is simple. Your bond repayments shouldn't exceed 30% of your monthly income.

Apply for a pre-qualified home loan
08 May 2012
Applying for a pre-qualified home loan is a vital step as it will confirm the bond amount that you qualify for.

Utility Fees
08 May 2012
These fees are charged by your local municipality for the use of water and electricity.

Rates, taxes and levies
08 May 2012
These fees are dependent on your property type and are paid to the authority that services your property such as a body corporate or municipality.

Homeowners insurance
08 May 2012
When you apply for a home loan you will find that homeowners insurance is mandatory as it covers your property against loss and damage.

Monthly home loan instalments
08 May 2012
Your monthly instalments are made up of the amount needed to repay the loan amount and a portion of the interest on that loan amount.

How the interest rate affects you
08 May 2012
To know how the interest rate affects you, you have to first understand that interest is essentially a lending fee that the Bank charges you.

Beautiful lighting options
08 May 2012
Whether you wish to add sparkle, be practical or create an intimate atmosphere, there is a wide variety to choose from. Get some ideas...

How to patch a damaged carpet
08 May 2012
If a carpet does become damaged, perhaps by a stray ember, there is a quick fix that you can try to repair the damaged area. Here's how...

How to choose the best area to live in
08 May 2012
When you buy a home you are also buying into the neighbourhood. That’s why it’s important to identify what you are looking for.

What type of home are you looking for?
08 May 2012
Once you have a list of preferred neighbourhoods for your search, it's time to decide the type of homes that you wish to view.

Different types of homes to consider
08 May 2012
Homes come in all shapes and sizes, here is an overview of what you can expect to find in the market…

What type of home do you really need?
08 May 2012
Now that your dream home wish list has been drawn up, differentiate between your wants and your needs for everyday home living.

More jobs for smallholder farmers
09 May 2012
Smallholder farmers turning once fallow land into farmland have propelled the agricultural sector, which has seen a three percent growth in jobs.

Listed funds deliver solid income
09 May 2012
Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) listed property loan stock company, Redefine Properties declared a distribution of 31.50 cents per linked unit.

Beetle reports and property sales
09 May 2012
Prospective home buyers in some provinces should be aware that they are not necessarily protected against all wood destroying organisms.

SA office vacancies now stable
09 May 2012
The national office vacancy rate in SA has stabilised following four quarters of steady increase, according to the Sapoa/IPD Office Vacancy Survey.

Getting home loans will soon be tough
09 May 2012
The implementation of the new Basel III rules on banking capital and liquidity will make it difficult and costly for homebuyers to get home loans.

House prices down, 1st timers buying
09 May 2012
House prices are set to further deflate as a result of developments in nominal prices and headline consumer price inflation towards the end of 2012.

Why search online?
09 May 2012
Searching online for your home offers convenience with access to property listings and information in your own time and from anywhere.

How to search using Property24
09 May 2012
Property24.com is one of South Africa’s largest property search portals and is the first place to start your property search. Here's how...

Let the house viewing begin
09 May 2012
The goal of house hunting is to find your dream home, so prepare yourself before you begin.

Do your property research first
09 May 2012
Research your house further to ensure you are making a good investment before signing an Offer to Purchase.

Enjoy the luxury of simple interiors
09 May 2012
Sometimes keeping things simple, owning a few exceptional furnishings rather than a lot of trendy ‘stuff’, is better. Create elegance with less...

How bonds work
09 May 2012
In simple terms, a bond is a loan for which your house functions as the collateral. Find out how they work…

Negotiate an Offer to Purchase
09 May 2012
With your research in hand, you can now negotiate with the best price in mind and feel confident when signing your Offer to Purchase.

What’s in an Offer to Purchase?
09 May 2012
Let’s check all the basic information included in an Offer to Purchase contract…

How do I get a bond?
09 May 2012
Now that the Buyer and Seller have come to an agreement and have both signed the Offer to Purchase, it is time to apply for a bond.

Relevant documents you will need
09 May 2012
Once you have decided where to apply for your bond and which option suits you best it's time to present the following important documents…

The bond approval process
09 May 2012
Once your chosen bank has received all the relevant documents, the mortgage approval process begins.

Registering a home in your name
09 May 2012
Once your home loan has been approved, it’s time to start the ball rolling and get your property registered in your name.

Preventing bond registration delays
09 May 2012
The entire registration process can be lengthy, so it’s best to be aware of certain factors that can cause delays.

Simplify property registration
09 May 2012
Don’t let this process get in the way of you becoming a proud home owner. Here is how to streamline the process…

Scoring a loan for commercial property
10 May 2012
In most cases, the toughest obstacle that a potential buyer of commercial property has to face and overcome, is the procuring of finance.

Home owner responsibilities
10 May 2012
If you have made it to this step, then you have finally reached your dream of home ownership.

Western Cape properties for auction
10 May 2012
Property buyers and investors looking to add to their investment portfolios should not miss the upcoming property auctions in the Western Cape.

Training proving valuable for APKF
10 May 2012
The Managing Director of Knight Frank says training courses at the Graduate School of Business have helped her team make good decisions.

Rights of home ownership
10 May 2012
Ownership of a home, such as a house or a flat, gives a home owner exclusive rights over the property.

Does the CPA affect the home buyer?
10 May 2012
The Consumer Protection Act refers exclusively to suppliers, goods and consumers, and is in place to protect the consumer.

Welcome home
10 May 2012
First-time home buyers, young professionals and couples alike will agree that home ownership is a great way to start building wealth.

Vaal property ideal for retirement dev
10 May 2012
The Vaal Dam and upper Vaal River areas in the Vaal Triangle are tipped as prime located development opportunities, says Pam Golding Properties.

Housing, energy and water in SA
10 May 2012
The percentage of South African households that fully own the properties they live in decreased from 58.1 percent in 2010 to 53.6 percent in 2011.

How to keep your garden neat in winter
10 May 2012
Winter is a dreadful time for plants and we usually feel helpless when it comes to keeping neat and tidy gardens throughout the cold season.

Diepsloot and Lephalale new malls
10 May 2012
Residents of Diepsloot, north of Johannesburg in Gauteng can look forward to a new regional shopping centre set to open in September 2013.

Land expropriation issues in SA
10 May 2012
Aside from expropriation in rural areas, it should not be forgotten that the development agenda will increasingly be played out in cities and towns.

Make a Mother’s Day gift for the home
10 May 2012
A wax candle shell with personalised embedded photo of your loved ones could make the ideal Mother’s Day gift and home decoration. Make your own...

British pensioners buying homes in SA
11 May 2012
Some of the most expensive properties in South Africa have been bought by foreigners with the Western Cape being the preferred location for many.

Why invest in commercial property?
11 May 2012
Property buyers and investors looking for a solid return on their investments should look to the commercial and industrial sector for good returns.

Why should you attend scheme meetings?
11 May 2012
Decisions that can only be taken by owners can’t be dealt with where there are insufficient owners present at meetings to form a quorum.

DIY landlords beware of these pitfalls
11 May 2012
As buy-to-let residential property investments become popular again, many investors lack experience in property management and resort to DIY tactics

How to lure buyers on show day
11 May 2012
Sellers need to have a strategy to increase the number of buyers who see their property on show day. Here’s how to up your chances of success...

Best buys, secure estate homes
11 May 2012
Property prices in SA, according to ooba, showed positive year-on-year growth of 5.6 percent in April while estate homes continue to hold appeal.

Add detailing for a stylish home
11 May 2012
If it's time to give your home a new look or restore an older house, add some architectural interest to any room with moulding and trim.

China Town opens in Parow
14 May 2012
The third China Town Shopping Centre in Voortrekker Road, Parow, at Shoprite Park in Cape Town opened its doors for trading in April.

Braamfontein - a vibey property hub
14 May 2012
Rapidly emerging as a vibrant growth node, Braamfontein in Johannesburg’s inner city is experiencing a surge in demand for property, reports JHI.

Heritage projects to create employment
14 May 2012
The Department of Arts and Culture aims to create thousands of jobs by rolling out 28 heritage projects and various programmes under a new strategy.

Court on property servitude rights
14 May 2012
A servitude holder may not increase the burden to other users of a property servitude beyond the express and implied terms of such servitudes.

Own a home in St Lucia in KZN
14 May 2012
If you want a home in a popular tourist destination and hot investment location node, look no further than St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal.

New property developments to buy into
14 May 2012
Savvy investors and buyers are choosing to buy homes in new secure property developments in the Western Cape and Gauteng, with luxury add-ons.

Removing tough household stains
14 May 2012
Trying to remove stains can be a nightmare. Here are some handy tips for removing stubborn household stains without destroying your furniture...

Create perfection with modern ceilings
14 May 2012
Ordinary ceilings start to flake and peel after a while, but with stretch ceilings you can create beautiful interiors for years to come.

South Africans - explore your country
15 May 2012
The Tourism Minister has called on South Africans to explore their own country and experience the beauty that lures millions of tourists here.

Affordability rules the housing market
15 May 2012
South African house prices are set to deflate further in 2012 and 2013 due to trends in nominal prices and headline consumer price inflation.

Listed fund gets loan from Nedbank
15 May 2012
The South African listed property sector 12 month rolled income yield was 7.36 percent as of 30 April, according to a Catalyst Fund Managers report.

How estate agents’ commission works
15 May 2012
Sellers are often wary of paying estate agents’ commission and unsure of what the percentage should be. Here's a basic guide...

Liable for tenants' council bills
15 May 2012
A Constitutional Court judgement made in 2004, Mkontwana v Nelson Mandela Municipality, has had ramifications in the commercial property sector.

Africa's hot prime property location
15 May 2012
The value of prime property in the world’s key cities fell by 0.4 percent in the first quarter of 2012, according to a Knight Frank report.

Guide to planting bulbs
15 May 2012
Bulbs are reasonably easy to grow and May is a good time to start planting spring-flowering bulbs when the soil is cooler. Get some tips...

Opportunities for women in rural areas
16 May 2012
Government is facilitating opportunities for women in rural, peri-urban and informal settlements to participate in green economy projects.

HOA a must for group housing schemes
16 May 2012
Those associated with group housing schemes, will be surprised that many members do not realise that they are bound by a homeowners’ association.

E-media: key tool for property market
16 May 2012
While the older generation often buy and sell property with the advice of their agent, the majority of APKF’s clients do their research via e-media.

JHI Residential Properties launched
16 May 2012
JHI Residential, a sister company to JHI Properties, has been launched and will specialise in providing residential management services.

Mel Gibson's penthouse to be sold
16 May 2012
Mel Gibson’s penthouse apartment located on the Côte d’Azur close to the Promenade de la Croisette opposite the Palais des Festivals is for sale.

Newcastle Mall in KZN now complete
16 May 2012
The construction of Newcastle Mall in northern KwaZulu-Natal has been completed by Aveng Grinaker-LTA and officially opened by President Jacob Zuma.

Credit resolution in SA improves
16 May 2012
The South African Credit Ombud’s annual results for 2011 show increased demand for its dispute resolution services in the credit industry.

Update your kitchen in 24 hours
16 May 2012
With the amount of time you spend in your kitchen, why settle for out-of-date features and décor? Give your kitchen a makeover with these tips...

How to deal with cracked walls
16 May 2012
A crack in the wall is often just a harmless surface disturbance. However, it is worth investigating what the cause of the crack might be.

Are smart homes the next trend?
16 May 2012
Technology that once filled an entire room now fits in the palm of a hand, offering great computing capacity. Could the next step be a smart home?

Property values tool helps consumers
17 May 2012
Property24.com’s newly launched Property Values feature aims to empower buyers and sellers with its street-by-street listing of latest sold prices.

Opportunities for property management
17 May 2012
South African commercial property managers report an increase in business with opportunities for growth still available in the commercial sector.

Govt to help set land reform prices
17 May 2012
The Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform says government needs to be involved in setting fair prices when it comes to land reform.

Sectional title homes a hit in Gauteng
17 May 2012
Sectional title properties remain popular in Gauteng because of the many advantages this form of property ownership offers, say estate agents.

Dipula Fund delivers solid income
17 May 2012
Dipula Income Fund’s interim results reveal its track to achieve its forecast results for the year ending 31 August and investment growth strategy.

Are you a first-time buyer? Read this
17 May 2012
First-time homebuyers currently account for almost one-third (31 percent) of all home loan grants and this figure is declining, says BetterBond.

How to care for your mattress
17 May 2012
Most spring mattresses have a 7 to 10 year life span. Get some helpful tips to help you keep your mattress in tip-top condition...

Sensible living room arrangements
17 May 2012
Because the living room has to work for everyone in the family, the choice of seating and how you arrange it should make all the difference.

Govt to spend R2.7bn on land reform
18 May 2012
South Africa's Land Reform Programme is set to get more support from government, with over R2 billion being set aside for 2012/13.

Sect. title vs. HOA property ownership
18 May 2012
Townhouses and complexes are a popular choice, but before buying, understand the difference between sectional title and homeowners’ associations.

Retail trade sales up 2.1% in March
18 May 2012
Measured in real terms (constant 2008 prices), seasonally adjusted South African retail trade sales increased by 2.1 percent in March 2012.

Why a show house is still important?
18 May 2012
Serious home sellers have faith in the effectiveness of online media platforms and use technologically savvy agencies, but a show house is vital.

Durban's new upmarket affordable homes
18 May 2012
An affordable housing project called The Mews comprising 477 sectional title units will commence soon in Umhlanga in KwaZulu-Natal.

Investec Fund investors get more cash
18 May 2012
Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) listed loan stock company Investec Property Fund posted solid maiden financial results for the year ended 31 March

The Alphen hotel property now open
18 May 2012
The historic Alphen Hotel located in the Constantia Valley in the Western Cape has now reopened as a five star boutique hotel property.

12 household uses for baking soda
18 May 2012
Baking soda is a common product that most of us have readily on hand and it can be used for various tasks around the home. Here are a few ideas...

Decorating tips for young couples
18 May 2012
You’ve just moved in together only to discover that your taste in décor couldn’t be more different from your partner’s. Here's how to blend styles..

This case is worth watching out for
21 May 2012
The property sector (with a few exceptions) has not appreciated the significance of the Aengus Lifestyle Properties vs.Inner City court case.

Five prime properties for auction
21 May 2012
Five properties located in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, North West and Limpopo Provinces will be auctioned at Summer Place in Hyde Park Johannesburg.

Environmental law experts join forces
21 May 2012
There is a pressing need for South African property developers to be able to understand environmental law issues, says Gunstons Attorneys.

Sustainable property developments
21 May 2012
In today’s world, it is essential that communities especially property developers are involved in various initiatives to protect natural resources.

R20m makeover for Village View Mall
21 May 2012
The stylish Village View shopping centre in Bedfordview in Gauteng is undergoing a R20 million makeover by owners The Cavaleros Group.

Grand Designs live returns to Joburg
21 May 2012
Grand Designs live returns to the Coca Cola Dome in Northgate Johanneburg from 25 to 27 May 2012, with the ‘grandest’ in home and garden design

Allocating values to business assets
21 May 2012
When negotiating sales of businesses, much time can be spent on allocating the purchase price among the assets making up the business.

Buyers and investors' best home buys
21 May 2012
Secure residential property developments attract many home buyers with first-timers said to buy into estates, sectional title and cluster homes.

The psychology of colour
21 May 2012
Research into the psychology of colour reveals that colour has an impact on our lives. Here are interesting facts about your choice of colour...

Create a little Moroccan magic
21 May 2012
The rich, earthy colours of Morocco reflect a passion for incorporating the outdoors within the confines of living spaces. Here’s how to do it...

Children's Dream House Competition
22 May 2012
Engel & Volkers South Peninsula has launched the Dream House Competition to encourage young children to develop their art skills and imagination.

Court ruling over ST dispute
22 May 2012
Trial court statistics show that disputes over sale agreements are rare, but in the sectional title and leasing sector, the number has risen notably

Billy Joel’s Miami home on sale
22 May 2012
Six-time Grammy award winner Billy Joel has just given Sotheby’s International Realty the mandate to sell his sumptuous Miami mansion.

Propell security & maintenance seminar
22 May 2012
Propell will be host a Trustees Seminar on Security and Maintenance at the Rivonia Recreational Club, 7 Achter Road, Paulshof in Johannebsurg.

Public works to fund skills training
22 May 2012
The Department of Public Works is set to invest in developing technical skills, which in the long run will save money being paid to consultants.

Reasons to hire a property inspector
22 May 2012
Homebuyers are urged to conduct thorough inspections and ensure there are no nasty surprises waiting at the end of the property sales agreement.

Decrease in civil summons for debt
22 May 2012
A 7.7 percent decrease in the total number of civil summonses issued for debt was recorded for the first quarter of 2012, according to a report.

Have you checked your credit scoring?
22 May 2012
Having a good credit rating is essential to obtaining the necessary finance to purchase a home and consumers should know their credit rating score.

Scents that help improve your mood
22 May 2012
Studies have shown that different scents affect your mood differently. Here are some of the scents that are known to improve people’s moods...

How to hide imperfections on furniture
22 May 2012
Does your wood furniture need some TLC or perhaps you want to restore a timeless antique piece? Here are some DIY wood repair tricks to try at home.

10 things that agents should know
23 May 2012
Reaching the top of your game in any career is no mean feat and the property industry is no exception, says a seasoned real estate agent.

Accommodation industry income up 13.4%
23 May 2012
The total income for the accommodation industry for Q1 2012 increased by 13.4 percent, according to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) report.

New offices for Gautrain in Midrand
23 May 2012
Listed property company, Growthpoint Properties Limited is developing a green office building in Midrand Gauteng with Gautrain as the major tenant.

Shared Ownership Investment Conference
23 May 2012
A Shared Ownership Investment Conference will be held on 26 June in Cape Town and 28 June in Sandton Johannesburg in Gauteng.

Less building plans passed in SA
23 May 2012
The value of recorded building plans passed (at current prices) was 4.5 percent lower (-R691.3 million) during the first quarter of 2012.

Buy-to-let market poised for growth
23 May 2012
Savvy South African buy-to-let investors are now getting returns in excess of 6 percent per annum thanks to low home prices and interest rates.

Consumer Price Index 6.1% in April
23 May 2012
The South African headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all urban areas) annual inflation rate in April 2012 was 6.1 percent.

New Act's impact on property rights
23 May 2012
Property developers wishing to obtain property rights are advised to proceed under the existing provincial ordinances to change land rights.

8 ways to prepare for a power failure
23 May 2012
Our day to day lives are dependent on electricity and rarely are we ever prepared for a black out. Here’s what you’ll need before the lights go off.

Retreat into a stylish safe bedroom
23 May 2012
For most of us, bedrooms are a place to retreat to when we need time off from the hustle and bustle of life. A sanctuary of peace and tranquility.

Sapoa course to boost property skills
24 May 2012
The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Business School (NMMU) will present a commercial property course in Port Elizabeth and East London.

5 300 low cost houses for Mpumalanga
24 May 2012
A total of 5 300 low cost houses will be built in Mpumalanga’s impoverished local municipalities through the People's Housing Process (PHP).

Interest rates and the property market
24 May 2012
If interest rates hold at low levels, the outlook for the South African property market appears upbeat, says Seeff chairman, Samuel Seeff.

Why agencies need to be tech savvy?
24 May 2012
The willingness to adopt 21st Century Information Technology is what separates a winning real estate agency from the crowd, says expert.

The winter home garden
24 May 2012
The aesthetic appeal of a property can vastly affect its perceived value, says Adrian Goslett, chief executive officer of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.

Choosing a suitable retirement home
24 May 2012
Selecting the right property for retirement is not simply a matter of selling a large property and buying a smaller property, according to an expert

No alterations before home transfer
24 May 2012
Home alterations are necessary as they add offices, surgeries, studios or convert space to accommodate expanding families and/or ageing parents.

SA property values of bonded homes
24 May 2012
A report reveals that while many property owners are in the black, the majority of bonded property owners hold positive equity in their properties.

Benefits of house plants
24 May 2012
House plants offer more health benefits than just improving air quality. Did you know that plants can offer relief for headache suffers? Read on...

Tips for storing food in the fridge
24 May 2012
If you have leftover party snacks or large amounts of food from entertaining make sure that you store them correctly. Get some tips...

Paarl agents support schools rugby
25 May 2012
Engel & Völkers Paarl has been the main sponsor for Paarl Boys and Paarl Gym Primary schools for a while now.

Buying property? Watch your payments
25 May 2012
When buying a property either at an auction or through an estate agent, it is important to ensure risk is minimised, according to a legal expert.

GP residents: Comment on development
25 May 2012
Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane has launched the G2055 Vision discussion document and has called on Gauteng residents to make their input.

Home buying all about affordability
25 May 2012
The South African Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to keep the repurchase rate unchanged at 5.5 percent per annum.

Actis sells 85% stake to SA companies
25 May 2012
Actis has sold its 85% shareholding in Accra Mall in Ghana to South African property developer, Atterbury and financial services group, Sanlam.

To obtain a home loan, buy jointly!
25 May 2012
Even with very low interest rates and low house prices as well as property bargains, many would-be buyers are still battling to get home loans.

Tsogo Sun’s Rosebank hotel property
25 May 2012
Tsogo Sun’s new hotel property in Rosebank, 54 on Bath, a five star boutique hotel located on Bath Avenue will open on 1 July.

Hotel properties' best kept secrets
25 May 2012
What enhances one’s stay at any hotel, particularly the five star properties is the concierge staff whose main concern is guest satisfaction.

Teach children about power tool safety
25 May 2012
Teaching power tool safety to children is essential for preventing accidents – even if they are not interested in heavy-duty woodwork or metalwork.

Casual, informal or formal dining room
25 May 2012
Dining rooms may not be an element in modern home designs, but they're still very much a part of many homes. A special place to dine, wine and chat.

10 ways to use banana skins at home
28 May 2012
Before you throw out whatever is left of your banana, think about the many ways you can use the skin in and around the home. Here's a useful guide…

Don’t skimp on home insurance
28 May 2012
Home insurance should not be a casual decision but one that is well thought out to ensure that you are adequately covered should you need it.

Mouille Point apartments in demand
28 May 2012
The property market in Mouille Point, Cape Town is reportedly experiencing brisk sales in some sectors and high levels of demand at present.

Tips for investing in student flats
28 May 2012
Buying a student property as an investment can be a wise move, but would-be investors should do their homework carefully before diving in.

Property auctions not to be missed
28 May 2012
A luxury house situated in the well established Boschenmeer Golf Estate will be auctioned on site on Tuesday 5 June.

Demand for homes priced just over R1m
28 May 2012
South African homes priced just above R1 million are popular with buyers and investors, according to the FNB Home Buying report.

How to keep a sparkling pool in winter
28 May 2012
Although you don’t often use the pool in winter, it still needs to be maintained so it can be in the best condition for the following summer.

The ins and outs of Capital Gains Tax
29 May 2012
Property buyers and sellers need to be aware of the implications of Capital Gains Tax and how it could affect them in their property transactions.

Pearl Valley initiates business rescue
29 May 2012
Pearl Valley Golf Estates situated between the towns of Paarl and Franschhoek in the Western Cape has initiated a business rescue strategy.

Help for distressed homeowners
29 May 2012
With lots of distressed properties in the market, homeowners behind on their monthly bond repayments may see no way out but to lose their homes.

Ways to win when you buy off-plan
29 May 2012
With the number of existing homes for sale in the affordable price range diminishing, new developments are now popular with many first-time buyers.

If you can afford that home, buy it!
29 May 2012
Although estate agents continue to point to affordability as key to the housing market, home buying activity is on the increase.

The ultimate guide to men’s décor
29 May 2012
Manly décor doesn’t have to fall into the ‘sports is my life, everything clashes, I don’t have a clue what I’m doing’ category. Get tips...

How to clean windows like a pro
29 May 2012
Part of what makes window washing such a chore is that homeowners insist on using ineffective methods and a ton of elbow grease. Get handy tips...

Number of liquidations down by 13.9%
30 May 2012
The number of liquidations for the first four months of 2012 declined by 36.6 percent compared with the same period of 2011.

Pre-qualify for home loan then buy
30 May 2012
Before you start house hunting establish what home loan amount you qualify for and have peace of mind knowing what you can realistically afford.

PGP further expands Kenyan operations
30 May 2012
Following the launch earlier this year of an office in Nairobi, Kenya, the Pam Golding Property group is further expanding its footprint in Africa.

Can I cancel my sole mandate?
30 May 2012
A Property24 reader says he signed a sole mandate with an estate agent but after a month no one had been to see the house. An expert advises...

Vukile Fund distribution up 6.1%
30 May 2012
Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) listed property loan stock company Vukile Property Fund posted a 6.1 percent increase in annual distribution.

Levy defaulters cannot avoid the law
30 May 2012
Failure to pay levies is a growing problem in sectional title property schemes, but levy defaulters cannot avoid the due process of the law.

6 ways to secure your home
30 May 2012
By upgrading your home's security, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that the occupants are safe. Here are some pointers...

Gauteng guest farm to be sold for R16m
30 May 2012
Malonjeni guest and game farm meaning 'The Place of Gathering' situated near Meyerton in Gauteng is on the market for R16 million.

16 ways to sharpen décor instincts
30 May 2012
It takes know-how to create soulful interiors, but you can sharpen your instincts with advice from a designer. Here are some tips...

Ingenuity to refurbish its properties
31 May 2012
Ingenuity Property Investments Limited is refurbishing its two prime properties in Cape Town thanks to Nedbank Corporate Property Finance Cape.

SA tenants battle to pay home rentals
31 May 2012
While many buy-to-let investors are cashing in big bucks from the rental market, landlords are warned to carefully assess tenant affordability.

Mortgage advances growth improving
31 May 2012
Year-on-year growth in outstanding household mortgage balances improved in April 2012 from a low of 1 percent in November 2011, says Absa.

Living la vida in country homes
31 May 2012
If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, traffic congestion and fuel hikes, perhaps it’s time to buy property in the country.

Agents: Be an effective negotiator
31 May 2012
An essential element of successful negotiation is to communicate to buyers and sellers in a way that they clearly understand and relate to.

Dipula to buy R300m shopping malls
31 May 2012
Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed company Dipula Income Fund intends to invest nearly R330 million to purchase three shopping centres.

Sellers must disclose property defects
31 May 2012
A seller must disclose all known defects to their agent before placing their property on the market and the agent is obliged to inform buyers.

Declutter an ailing medicine cabinet
31 May 2012
Without proper maintenance, your medicine cabinet could be in need of serious doctoring. Reorganise your cabinet with these suggestions...

Protect your garden against frost
31 May 2012
Not only does winter make everything look dull and lifeless, it can also cause damage to your garden if you are not careful. Here are some tips...

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