In September, the South African Reserve Bank dropped the repo rate to 8%. This was a much-anticipated move after a period of higher interest rates that weighed heavily on buyer affordability. Now, both buyers and sellers in Cape Town are set to benefit from these changes, according to Quay 1 International Realty.
READ: Experts react to SARB's 0.25% interest rate cut and its impact
Buyer Affordability
The recent rate cut is good news for buyers, especially those who had been held back by high bond repayments. With lower interest rates, monthly payments are now more manageable, which opens up more options for those looking to buy. In addition to this, bond originators can maximise this opportunity by negotiating with banks, creating further savings for buyers. This increased flexibility with the banks could lead to a surge in loan approvals. For buyers considering lifestyle-driven areas in Cape Town, like the Southern Suburbs and the Southern Peninsula, this might be the perfect moment to act. The combination of better affordability and a surge of upcountry buyers relocating for lifestyle reasons is expected to keep competition steady in the market. Buyers keen on securing homes before further market shifts should consider moving sooner rather than later.
Seller Demand
On the flip side, sellers are also seeing a boost. As buyers’ affordability improves, demand is picking up. This could stabilise prices in areas that saw softening during the higher rate periods. Sellers in more sought-after areas like Cape Town’s luxury market will likely see quicker sales and possibly fewer price negotiations.
If more buyers jump in due to the current rate drop, sellers may find it’s an ideal time to list, especially before the market heats up and buyer competition pushes prices upward.
With further rate cuts expected, the Cape Town property market could see an uptick in both buyer interest and seller activity. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the current conditions present exciting opportunities. But with demand likely to rise, moving sooner rather than later could make all the difference.
Homeowners: How the interest rate cut affects your financial planning:
To help you navigate this change, Property24 has introduced an Additional Once-Off Payment feature in the additional payments calculator tool, allowing you to understand how the rate cut can benefit your financial circumstances.
To access this feature, simply navigate to the Property24 Additional Payments Calculator under the Calculators tab.
This additional feature is designed to help you estimate the financial impact of the rate change on your existing bond. By entering your current bond debt amount, current bond repayment, additional monthly payment, once-off payment, and interest rate details, you can assess how your payments and overall costs are affected.
Click here to access the Additional Once-Off Payment feature.
READ: How to capitalise on the latest interest rate cut
In the meantime, Antonie Goosen, founder and principal of Meridian Realty says flexibility is also key when house hunting. “You may have a dream home in mind, but be prepared to compromise on certain features,” Goosen suggests. With limited stock in certain areas, it’s essential to prioritise the must-haves over the nice-to-haves. For some, this might mean opting for a smaller home in a better location or choosing a fixer-upper with the potential to add value over time. “Being adaptable can help you find a property that meets your core needs, even if it doesn’t tick every box on your wish list,” he adds.
Finally, Goosen emphasises the importance of working with a knowledgeable estate agent. “A good agent knows the local market and can guide you through the entire process,” he explains. An experienced agent can not only help find properties that match a buyer’s criteria but also assist with negotiations and legal paperwork, ensuring the transaction goes smoothly.
In summary, buying a home in South Africa’s current market requires careful planning and informed decision-making. By understanding their finances, researching locations, and staying flexible, house hunters can navigate the challenges of the market and secure a property that meets both their immediate and long-term needs. “With the right approach and a bit of patience, finding the perfect home is achievable".
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