According to the FNB Estate Agent Survey, for the 1st quarter of 2016, 1st time home buying slowed when expressed as a percentage of total home buying.

The first three months of 2016 saw growth in the average value of middle-segment homes in the South African residential property market remaining relatively stable at a nominal 5,7% year-on-year (y/y).

The Monetary Policy Committee’s decision to further increase the repo rate was unfortunate off the back of the January (2016) hike and given the pressing need to help stimulate growth in South Africa’s economy, says Dr Andrew Golding, chief executive of the Pam Golding Property group.

This is a very difficult year for retailers. 

By all accounts, the next two years are going to be challenging ones for the residential property market, thanks to rising interest rates and slow economic growth.

Growthpoint Properties Limited today reported distribution growth of 6.0% for its six-month interim period to 31 December 2015, delivering performance at the top end of its market guidance.

Prevailing weak and low levels of business sentiment are set to keep the demand for industrial space at bay, and the outcome of this will be continued moderate growth in market rentals for industrial space, says Rode & Associates.

Adjustments to transfer duty on property in the 2016 national Budget are to impact only the upper end of the residential property market.

Despite the recent hikes in interest rates, property on the West Rand remains reasonably priced when compared to the CBDs of Sandton and Rosebank. 

The household sector experienced increased financial strain throughout 2015 and in the early stages of 2016 according to Absa Housing Review.