Angelique Goodall

One of the most contentious moments during a lease period is when the lease is terminated, and discussions around the return of the deposit begin. Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, offers insight into how the process is regulated and what tenants and landlords can do to avoid disappointment, stress, and anger. Section 5 of the Rental Housing Act governs how deposits and interest earned are handled. The Act states that the landlord may require a tenant, before moving into the dwelling, to pay a deposit which may not exceed an amount specified in the agreement or otherwise agreed to between the parties. In practice, deposits often equal one month’s rent, but the specific amount can vary and must be agreed upon by both parties. The deposit serves as financial protection for landlords, covering damages, unpaid rent, or other costs arising during the tenancy and stipulated in the lease agreement. For tenants, the deposit also serves as a motivator to maintain the property in good condition and fulfill their lease obligations. This dual purpose underpins the importance of transparency and clear communication between tenants and landlords. The landlord or their managing property practitioner must hold the deposit in an interest-bearing account. Best practice is to hold the deposit in a dedicated trust account, independent of the business or landlord’s operating account. Importantly, the interest rate must not be less than what a savings account with a financial institution would earn. If the landlord is a registered estate agent, the deposit must be handled in accordance with the Property Practitioners Act. Tenants are entitled to request a receipt for their deposit payment, which should clearly outline the amount paid, the date, and the purpose of the payment. It is essential for tenants to keep this receipt as proof of payment throughout the tenancy. What Can the Deposit Be Used For? The landlord is entitled to apply the deposit to specific costs. …

Becoming a property practitioner offers a rewarding career path filled with opportunities for growth, financial success and the satisfaction of helping people find their dream homes or investment properties. Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property, lays out everything you need to know about getting started in 2025. To practice as a professional property practitioner in South Africa, you must follow the educational and registration requirements set out by the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA). These steps are designed to ensure that agents are well-trained, knowledgeable, and capable of serving clients with professionalism and integrity. Step 1: Secure a Candidate Property Practitioner role with a reputable agency Your first step is to secure a position as a Candidate Property Practitioner with a registered real estate agency. The principal of the agency you join will register you as a candidate with the PPRA, you will receive your Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC) and can start your NQF4 certification. As a candidate property practitioner, you will complete your logbook and portfolio of evidence. During your first year, you will gain practical experience under the guidance of qualified professionals. Choosing the right agency can make a significant difference in your career progression. Just Property provides a supportive and structured candidacy programme, equipping aspiring agents with hands-on training, mentorship and access to industry-leading tools and technology. Step 2: Obtain the required certification (NQF4) During your candidacy, you must complete the Occupational Certificate: Real Estate (NQF Level 4). This qualification covers critical aspects of real estate, understanding and implementing the Property Practitioners Act, operating as a property practitioner through topics such as business plans and marketing plans, understanding valuations, and day-to-day operations as a property practitioner. Just Property’s training programmes, …

Hotel investments have long been considered a solid way to diversify a portfolio while capitalizing on the booming tourism industry. South Africa, with its rich natural attractions and world-renowned destinations, offers prime opportunities for hotel investments. These investments provide not only financial growth but also a way to be part of one of the country's most dynamic and attractive sectors. Hotel properties offer investors a unique opportunity to benefit from consistent revenue and long-term growth. Unlike residential real estate, which can fluctuate based on market conditions, hotel properties generate steady income from guests year-round. This makes hotels an appealing choice for those seeking reliable cash flow. Additionally, investing in a hotel managed by a professional operator alleviates the burden of day-to-day management, allowing investors to enjoy passive income while the operator handles everything from guest services to marketing and maintenance. In particular, luxury hotels and resorts in top tourist destinations are a smart investment, as they attract a consistent flow of visitors from both international markets and domestic travellers. The Value of Prime Location The location of a hotel is a key factor that determines its success. South Africa’s tourism industry is primarily driven by attractions like its national parks, wildlife reserves, and scenic landscapes, making areas near destinations like Kruger National Park highly desirable for hotel investments. Properties in these regions typically enjoy high demand, ensuring steady occupancy rates and the potential for strong returns. Shawu’s Hills Safari Hotel Kruger is located on the banks of the Crocodile River overlooking the legendary Kruger National Park. Shawu’s Hills Safari Hotel Kruger is offering a rare opportunity to invest in one of South Africa’s most sought-after tourism areas. With the park’s global popularity and continuous influx of tourists, hotels in the vicinity …

In 2024, South African homebuyers increasingly turned to 'plot and plan' packages as a compelling pathway to homeownership. This approach, which involves purchasing a plot of land and building a home using pre-approved plans, offers a combination of personalisation and financial benefits that are shaping the future of property investment in the country. One of the standout financial advantages of 'plot and plan' is the exemption from transfer duty taxes, which do not apply to newly constructed homes. Additionally, homeowners can claim depreciation on taxes, further enhancing their long-term savings. Besides financial benefits and incentives, 'plot and plan' allows buyers to create homes tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This level of customisation, which includes design, layout, and features—provides a unique opportunity to create your own living space that aligns with modern lifestyles and aesthetics, an option often unavailable with pre-owned properties. Additional Advantages of 'Plot and Plan' Packages Modern Amenities Building new homes enables the integration of energy-efficient and water-saving technologies, promoting sustainability and reducing utility costs. Low Maintenance Costs Newly built homes often require less upkeep due to updated materials and systems, most of which are covered by warranties, reducing the risk of unexpected repairs in the first few years. A Promising Market Landscape The property market in 2024 offered a supportive environment for 'plot and plan' investments. Real estate experts noted the potential for interest rate cuts during the latter half of the year, which could reduce financing costs for buyers. The construction sector also demonstrated resilience, with projections showing a growth rate of over 3% annually between 2023 and 2026. This surge has led to increased residential developments, creating more opportunities for buyers to invest in vacant land and build their dream …

There is a growing sense of optimism in the residential property market, says Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property. This is supported by economic reforms, political stability and shifting trends in buyer and tenant behaviour. Stevens’s insights into the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead paint a picture of a market poised for growth. Economic and political context South Africa’s economy is beginning to show signs of recovery, with inflation declining from 5.3% at the start of 2024 to 3.8% by October. This decline sits comfortably between the target range of 3 - 6% and has allowed the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to lower interest rates twice in recent months. “While these cuts were smaller than anticipated, they signal a trend that should bring relief to consumers,” Stevens explains. If inflation numbers remain at this level, he anticipates at least a 1% reduction in interest rates over the course of 2025, which would ease financial pressures on households and boost market activity. The May 2024 elections and the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU) have fostered optimism, strengthening South Africa’s currency and public sentiment. “The GNU has given people and investors hope for the future,” Stevens notes. However, he acknowledges challenges, such as reducing the number of state employees in a country grappling with high unemployment. The government’s performance in tackling these issues will be critical in maintaining momentum, he says. Trends Semigration continues to shape the market with coastal cities and towns, like Langebaan, Hermanus, Plettenberg Bay and St. Francis Bay, drawing buyers. Stevens says that while the Western Cape has been a consistent magnet (with property prices increasing by 39% between 2019 and 2023, according to Lightstone), Eastern Cape towns, including Gqeberha (Formally Port Elizabeth), are emerging as hotspots, bolstered by significant investments in infrastructure. He adds that property prices in …