High level recognition of the critical need for entry level homes is manifesting in the regeneration of some of the country’s inner cities, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the City of Johannesburg, says Mike Bester, CEO of Realty 1 International Property Group

Construction of the R2,5bn Gauteng government precinct and its controversial central square has been delayed pending the outcome of an appeal by the province against a decision to allow the demolition of only five of the 10 disputed buildings in Johannesburg's inner city.

Construction of the R2,5bn Gauteng government precinct and its controversial central square has been delayed pending the outcome of an appeal by the province against a decision to allow the demolition of only five of the 10 disputed buildings in Johannesburg's inner city.

The City of Johannesburg has won the right in the Supreme Court of Appeal to evict, because of safety and health concerns, more than 300 residents living in inner city buildings. This ends what was effectively a one-year ban on evictions in the city, pending the outcome of the case.

The revival of Johannesburg’s inner city has seen an escalation in the value of property, making it more difficult for government and non profit organisations to provide much needed social housing for low-income earners.

A Much-needed retail revolution is taking place at Gandhi Square, in the southern section of Johannesburg’s central business district (CBD).

Maponya Mall, has proven to be a major draw card for national retailers eager to claim a share of the estimated R4.3 billion Soweto consumer market, as determined by the City of Johannesburg.

Owners who keep their buildings in the inner city well maintained can prevent building invasions from taking place, says Neville Schaefer, CEO of residential property managers Trafalgar.

Commercial property association Sapoa and various government departments have agreed to work together in finding solutions to problems facing the property industry.

Neil Gopal, the new chief operating office of commercial property body the South African Property Owners' Association (Sapoa), says one of the challenges facing the group is to get more black economic empowerment companies to join it.