Reflecting on a successful 2025: A message from STBB’s Managing Director, Darren Brander
This year, STBB celebrated a remarkable milestone: 125 years of legal service. Ultimately, this achievement represents much more than a number. Over the years, we’ve not only expanded our service offerings and established a national footprint, but have adapted to changing times and embraced the evolving demands of the legal industry. This kind of longevity signals an embodiment of the values and characteristics we cherish most: Professionalism, credibility, resilience, the cultivation of long-lasting client relationships, and most of all, trust – in our services and in our people. It is these core values that have shaped our practice, guided our conduct, and sustained our growth in an intensely competitive industry. To our valued clients, thank you for your ongoing trust and support in our services. We look forward to continuing our journey together in 2026 – and beyond.
Servitudes and parking disputes: Can your neighbour obstruct garage access?
A recent High Court ruling sheds valuable light on how neighbours should reasonably exercise their rights in relation to a servitude of right of way.
The Legally Speaking podcast | Transfer duty unpacked: What every property purchaser should know
In our final and highly informative podcast of 2025, Dr Samantha Smith explores key transfer duty-related questions. With the aim of keeping prospective purchasers and property professionals informed, Samantha carefully explains the conceptual basis of transfer duty, outlines applicable exemptions, and notes the importance of this year’s threshold adjustment for first-time homeowners. With property investment set to increase in 2026, understanding the mechanics of transfer duty is critical. For clear and comprehensive guidance, tune in now!
Exchange control update: What non-residents should know about the new income transfer rules
The South African Reserve Bank’s Financial Surveillance department recently issued a new Exchange Control Circular that introduces important changes directly impacting how non-residents and individuals who have ceased tax residency may transfer income abroad.
Seaside appeal: Why purchasers are flocking to Hermanus
Hermanus’s property market remains one of the Western Cape’s strongest in 2025, with recent data showing high transaction volumes and sustained demand across both mid-range and luxury segments. Indeed, sales of homes above R5 million have grown significantly over the past five years, driven largely by semigration, lifestyle buyers, affluent retirees, and investors seeking stable coastal property value.
Thinking of acquiring a coastal home, holiday house, or investment property? In high-demand markets, professional conveyancing support ensures a seamless transaction. With an office in Hermanus, STBB is well placed to protect your interests from offer to registration.
Expert guidance: Handling sectional title disputes
As we approach the end of an eventful year, disputes in sectional title schemes can escalate. If you’re navigating noise complaints, overcrowding, levy disputes, or issues with third-party contractors, expert guidance is available.
For an enlightening analysis on resolving community scheme disputes, watch the re-run of our popular webinar with STBB Director and experienced litigation attorney, Martin Bey.
In case you missed it: Deeds Registries confirm festive working arrangements
Last month, South Africa’s various Deeds Registries confirmed their working arrangements ahead of the festive break. As previously communicated, our dedicated teams are endeavouring to ensure that our clients’ property transactions are registered smoothly and timeously. For further information, read our collection of notices.
