Frequently Asked Questions
General Property FAQ
What is a 'suspensive condition' in an offer to purchase?
All suspensive conditions listed in an offer to purchase must be fulfilled within the given timreframe for the contract to be binding and valid. If these conditions are not met, then the contract will become null and void. Typically, these conditions may include the securing of a mortgage bond or perhaps revoking a cession of rights over a property. These conditions can include anything and we strongly reccomend that you read this clause carefully before signing an offer to purchase. |
Am I allowed to make an offer on more than one property at once?
Unless you have the resources to purchase multiple properties at once, this is highly unethical. Once a seller accepts your offer, he is bound and cannot accept any other offers from potential purchasers. Furthermore, if you are dealing with an estate agent, you would be wasting their time and resources. We reccomend that you do the right thing. Think carefully before making an offer. Take your time to find the right property. Once you commit - do not change your mind! |
What kind of an 'agent' are you anyway?
Estate Agents fulfill different roles in the market-place. A letting agent is able to assist you to source a rental property or to manage your rental property portfolio. They generally charge property owners a management fee as a percentage of the monthly rental. Sales agents on the other hand, specialise in finding you that perfect property to buy. Their commissions are payable by the owner of the property. These commissions can range anywhere from 3.5% - 7% + VAT. A managing agent is responsible for the management of a sectional title scheme (complex). They must see to the maintenance of all units, control the levies and financial spend to ensure that the scheme does not go bankrupt. There are some agents who choose not to specialise and take on multiple roles. Chilli Property exclusively deals with property sales. |
Are there advantages to buying a property off plan?
There are a number of advantages to purchasing property in this way. Firstly, the developer usually offers you a number of options to customise your property. These options might be limited or quite extensive, like in some luxury full title developments, where you could be given a PC amount and the time of a personal assistant to help you shop for finishes. Secondly, there is no transfer duty payable and often, the developer will elect to pay all other attorney fees and costs. You should confirm this prior to signing an offer to purchase. |
What about legal fees and costs?
Legal fees and costs are calculated upon the purchase price of a property. These costs are made up of Transfer Duty (payable to SARS), stamp duty, attorney fees and bond registration costs. I aways calculate on 4% of the purchase price (as a worst case scenario). However it is always best to ask for an accurate quote from a conveyancing attorney. |
When will my first bond instalment be payable?
Your bond instalments are payable from when the property registers in your name at the deeds office. Depending on the day of the month this takes place (Ex. before the 15th), your instalment might be payable at the end of that month or only at the end of the following month. The banks do change their criteria from time to time. It is therefore your responsibility as the bond holder to phone the bank’s call centre and verify these details. The estate agent is not permitted to do this on your behalf. |
If a deposit is required from me, when will it be payable?
The deposit is payable as soon as your home loan is approved by the bank. It must be paid into the appointed transferring attorney’s trust account and will accrue interest for your benefit. The attorney cannot proceed with registration until the deposit is paid. Should your deposit be “tied up” in a fixed term account, you must notify the estate agent of this before signing the offer to purchase. |
May I take occupation of my property before registration of transfer?
Provided that all construction is complete (if the property is a new development) or seller has agreed to this condition (if an existing property), you may take occupation once your bond is approved and accepted. Keep in mind that you will have to pay occupational rent to the developer / seller, which is usually set at 1% of the purchase price. |
Fourways Property FAQ
What is the best way to buy a property in Fourways?
Estate agents play a vital role in sourcing good properties. It can save you much frustration in the long run if you have a good estate agent looking out for your best interests. Listen to their advice and ask them to inspect the property you intend to puchase, ensuring there are no defects which could ultimately cost you a lot of money. You could also enlist the services of a professional property inspector for this task. |
Please tell me more about the property market in Fourways?
Fourways has many wonderful suburbs, sectional title schemes and gated communities to choose from. You can expect to buy a full title house for prices upwards of R 1.5 million and apartments from R 700 000. There is a high property turnover in Fourways, so you should always be on the look out for a great deal! |
Should I buy property in Fourways?
Buying property in Fourways is an excellent investment. Fourways is part of Sandton, which has become the business hub of Africa. Property prices have dramatically increased year-on-year with no end in sight. Ensure that you are buying a property for a market related value and you can't go wrong! |
Midrand Property FAQ
How do I find a good conveyancing attorney in Midrand?
Although, the seller always has the first choice in appointing an attorney, the decliding factor for you as a property purchaser should be cost. Always ask the seller if you can phone a few more attorneys for a competitive quote. Save money where you can! |
Should I find a reliable estate agent in Midrand?
Finding a good estate agent can save you much frustration and time when purchasing a property. A good agent will help to to buy a property which is in good order, at a fair market price. The agents at Chilli Property would be happy to assist you with all yout property requirements. |
What kind of property can I hope to find in Midrand?
Midrand has many wonderful suburbs, sectional title schemes and gated communities to choose from. You can choose a house in the suburbs, an apartment in a sectional title complex or a house in one of the many estates like Kyalami Hills. The prices are very reasonable in Midrand, but are set to climb in the next few years. |
Why is Midrand a good choice for property investment?
Buying property in Midrand is an excellent investment choice. Midrand is the IT & Pharmaceutical hub of Gauteng. Rapid growth is taking place in terms of the Gautrain, commercial and residential property development. Ensure that you are buying a property for a market related value and you can't go wrong in the long term! |
Randburg Property FAQ
Should I buy a unit in a new development in Randburg?
There are a number of advantages to purchasing property in this way. Firstly, the developer usually offers you a number of options to customise your property. These options might be limited or quite extensive, like in some luxury full title developments, where you could be given a PC amount and the time of a personal assistant to help you shop for finishes. Secondly, there is no transfer duty payable and often, the developer will elect to pay all other attorney fees and costs. You should confirm this prior to signing an offer to purchase. |
Should I use an estate agent to help me buy a property in Randburg?
Do you have the time and patience to sift through hundreds of property listings? If not, enlist the services of a professional estate agent to assist you to find the perfect property. Tell them your exact requirements and how much you would like to spend. They will gladly do all the footwork for you. Call Chilli Property for professional service and advice. We would love to assist you in making your dream house - a reality. |
Should I invest in Randburg property?
Randburg has become a commerical hub with many large companies like Multi-Choice. If you purchase an investment property in Randburg, you will never have a problem finding tenents. Security is an important factor when living close to the Randburg CBD and we reccomend investng in a security complex. The outlying suburbs of Randburg are lovely and it is still possible to buy a property at a very reasonable price! |
How do I find a good property in Randburg?
The best resource to find property is the Internet. However, it can be a daunting task to sift through hundreds of property listings! It is far better to find a good estate agent and allow them to assist you be finding properties which meet your exact requirements and budget. |
Sandton Property FAQ
Who is the best conveyancing attorney in Sandton?
Remember, the seller always has the first choice in appointing a conveyancer. However, it is important to suggest that the attoreny be in close proximity because you will have to visit their offices to sign transfer documents. Additionally, a good conveyancer might be inclined to give you a significant discount on your legal fees. It is all a matter of negotiation! |
Should I use a 'name-brand' estate agency in Sandton?
I believe it is always better to use an independent company where personal service is key. You are about to invest into a major asset known as property. You deserve to be treated like a king or queen and offered the very best service and properties in sandton to choose from. This level of service is often not available from large franchise agencies. Chilli Property are dedicated to offering you professional service. Call one of our agents for a personal touch! |
What type of property should I be looking for in Sandton?
Unless you have a few million rand to spare and able to purchase an up-market cluster or house, we reccomend you look at the sectional title developments in Sandton. There are lovely apartment units to choose from. The older buildings offer the best value with large bedrooms and living spaces. You can never go wrong with renovating the kitchen and bathooms. It is a worthwhile investment which will have an excellen return in years to come. |
Can I find an investment property in Sandton?
Sandton is the business hub of africa and is said to have more money per city block than any other african city. The property prices in Sandton can be staggering, but good investment properties are available for under one million rand. Please refer to our new developments section and search our property listings to find out more about the property deals we have on offer. |
