Dr Samantha Smith is STBB's chief Content Writer and Legal Editor. She graduated with a BSocSci, LLB, LLM, and PhD (Law) from the University of Cape Town. Skilled in socio-legal analysis, critical thinking, and creative and technical writing, she previously worked in investigative legal research, with a special focus on animal law and environmental policy. As of February 2024, Samantha handles all STBB content. This includes brainstorming and writing all social media, newsflashes, newsletters, digital and print advertisements, magazine articles, and all webinar and podcast write-ups. Additionally, she attends to tenders and proposals, legal updates and presentations, biographies, brochures, information sheets, content for special projects, and various other digital publications and communications.

All About Property | April 2025

An increase too far: Cape Town property owners criticise proposed rates hike

The City of Cape Town’s proposed 2025/26 budget has ignited widespread criticism from homeowners and property associations due to substantial increases in property rates and municipal service tariffs.

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Meet Renelle Moodley: STBB KZN Director and seasoned property law specialist

A skilled and consummate legal practitioner, Renelle Moodley serves as a Director at STBB KZN. As a practising Attorney, Conveyancer, and Notary Public, Renelle’s depth of legal expertise spans all facets of property transactions, including mortgage bond registration, sectional title developments, and notarial practice. With more than 25 years of experience in the legal arena, Renelle possesses the unique skills to provide both innovative and effective solutions for her valued clients. However, what truly sets Renelle apart from her competitors is her ability to seamlessly blend professional rigour with a warm, personal approach. To that end, she is valued not only for her extensive legal knowledge and precision, but also for her approachable nature and ability to translate complex legal processes into practical, client-friendly results.

For expert legal assistance with property matters in Durban and surrounds, contact Renelle today.

Contact Renelle

Have you signed up to STBB Pulse? Practical legal insights are just a click away

Launched simultaneously with All About Property, our expertly composed Pulse newsletter delivers practical legal updates and insights straight to your inbox. From commercial law to divorce, property disputes to estate planning and labour law developments, Pulse keeps you informed and empowered with invaluable legal knowledge.

Don’t miss out! Sign up now for free legal news and practical insights delivered straight to your inbox!

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Unlocking homeownership: South Africa’s affordable housing market on the rise

Much to the relief of property enthusiasts, South Africa’s affordable housing market is in the midst of a substantial resurgence, with sustained demand for properties priced between R350 000 and R700 000. Indeed, this market segment has seen a double-digit increase in activity over the past four years, with growth predominantly fuelled by ongoing urbanisation, the appeal of choosing homes in less densely populated areas, and rising investment in housing initiatives.

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The Legally Speaking podcast: Elevate your property game

STBB’s Legally Speaking podcast channel is your audio guide to all things ‘legal’. In some of our more recent property-related episodes, we explore the problem with concealing assets, including immovable property, in a trust pre-divorce, the process of replacing a lost or misplaced title deed, the consequences of non-compliance with FICA requirements, the impact of solar power installations on the sale of property, and the property implications of one’s matrimonial property regime upon death or divorce.

Explore our catalogue of property-focused episodes while you’re on the move and tap into a wealth of practical legal advice and information!

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Development law update: SCA dismisses municipality’s appeal in split zoning matter

In a previous edition of All About Property, we explored a Western Cape developer’s successful appeal against a decision of the George Local Municipality concerning the disputed split zoning of its sawmill operation on the eastern border of the city. In that matter, the High Court found that the Municipality had unreasonably refused to correct a clerical error on its new zoning map, which limited development.  Dissatisfied with the court’s ruling, the Municipality approached the Supreme Court of Appeal, which dismissed the appeal.

In case you missed it, read our coverage of another significant zoning win for developers in the Western Cape: STBB secures High Court victory for property developer in zoning dispute.

Ready, set, pass! STBB wishes all candidates a successful PDE 4 exam

STBB wishes all eligible candidates writing next week’s PDE 4 exam the very best of luck on their journey to becoming full-status property practitioners! You’ve put in the effort – and now is the time to shine.

For those considering an enriching career in real estate or simply seek to understand the process, read our informative article on the roadmap to becoming a property practitioner in South Africa.

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