With the South African Reserve Bank’s announcement of interest rates cut of 100 basis points and earlier transfer duty exemption for properties below R1 million by the Minister of Finance, local regulations have made it attractive for first-time home buyers to enter the market.

After months of decline, trading densities across 2.2 million m² of physical retail space in seven provinces of South Africa and in Namibia are trending towards growth, according to an industry barometer.

News broke last week that The Fitch ratings agency could affirm SA’s rand-denominated credit rating one level above junk at BBB-, a move that no doubt makes us question what this means for the property development and real estate sectors.

As the main source of income for commercial buildings, tenants are key, highlighting tenant retention as a primary focus for building owners and managers.

The recent protests at universities and colleges across SA have caused many to question the wisdom of investing in student accommodation - but it still remains a highly attractive option provided you buy the right kind of property in the right location, says Bill Rawson, chairman of the Rawson Property Group.

“We welcome today’s decision by the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee to maintain the repo rate at 7% as it provides some relief to consumers dealing with rising food inflation and taxes”, says Bruce Swain, CEO of Leapfrog Property Group.

Until very recently new owners of properties were held liable for the historical debt of a seller due to a municipality in terms of Section 118(3) of the Municipal Systems Act.

The property valuation system in Cape Town was recently under question when  investigations revealed the value of some properties were increased, which led to increased tariffs and taxes for homeowners.