Search
All
April 2011 - Transfer Duty Down: How Much Will You Save?
How will you (and the property market generally) benefit from the proposal in Budget 2011 to reduce transfer duty?
March 2011 - Consumer Protection and Property Panic
"Don't Panic!" (Douglas Adams, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy) Property sellers, estate agents and landlords - many of your deals will be subject to the requirements of the new Consumer Protection Act ("CPA"), so prepare for them now! Firstly, be ready to comply with the Act when it comes into force at the end of March -...
Feb 2011 - Blunt Pencils, Servitudes and Verbal Contracts
Whilst most verbal agreements are binding in South African law, first prize is always to record them in writing. Otherwise you risk doubt, dispute and delay down the line. Moreover certain types of contract, including those relating to sale or donation of land or any "interest in land", must be in writing (and signed by all p...
January 2011: Sellers Beware
What should you do, as seller of a property, if the buyer assures you that he/she was not introduced to the property by any estate agent, and that you are accordingly not liable for any commission? The saving in commission will no doubt in practice be shared between you and the buyer when you come to negotiate a final sale p...
December 2010: Bye Bye Sweet Sea View
When your enjoyment of your property (and its value) is closely linked to having a panoramic view, how does our law balance your rights with those of your neighbours if and when conflict arises? Can either of you build (or extend) your house in such a way as to block the other's view? A recent Constitutional Court judgmen...