VAT increase proposed: Clarifying key questions in property transactions
In the property context, the proposed and much-discussed VAT rate increase of 0.5%, which will potentially take effect on 1st May 2025, raises three key questions: When is VAT payable in property sales, how does a VAT increase impact property transactions, and which rate – 15% or 15.5% – is applicable when the sale and transfer of property occur in different VAT periods?
Meet Anastasia Haji-Pavlou: Exceptional leader and property law dynamo
A dynamic and skilled Attorney, Conveyancer, and Notary Public, Anastasia Haji-Pavlou is a respected Director and Branch Manager of STBB Sandton. With 20 years of post-qualification experience, Anastasia specialises in all aspects of property law, conveyancing, and notarial practice. She is particularly adept at the negotiation and drafting of complex sale agreements, leases, and contracts, and has extensive experience in all facets of retail conveyancing. A testament to her vivaciousness, passion for property, and approachable nature, Anastasia has emerged as a well-known and exceptional public speaker responsible for training estate agents across the Johannesburg metropole. Further evincing her leadership abilities and high level of integrity, she serves on the firm’s Executive Committee. Above all, Anastasia is deeply committed to building and maintaining long-lasting connections with her clients. She is an asset to STBB – and an ally to property practitioners and investors alike.
Tshwane & Ekurhuleni release 2025 General Valuation Rolls: Why property owners should note their objections
Recently, the Tshwane and Ekurhuleni municipalities published their General Valuation Rolls (‘GVRs’), which will determine municipal rates payable by property owners in respect of properties located within each municipal jurisdiction. Consequently, the need for property owners to carefully view the applicable GVR, and to object to inaccurate valuations, cannot be overstated.
Construction law update: Government publishes draft Construction Regulations for public comment
In a move that will be of particular interest to STBB’s construction and property development clients, the Minister of Employment and Labour recently published draft Construction Regulations, which seek to improve occupational health and safety in the construction industry, for public comment.
In case you missed it: An electronic deeds registration system is imminent
Promulgated in 2019, the Electronic Deeds Registration Systems Act (‘the EDRS Act’) establishes the legal framework for the implementation and management of an electronic deeds registration system. After a phased rollout, the EDRS Act will be fully operational on Tuesday, 1st April 2025.
The shift from a manual system to a digital version is expected to facilitate the efficient registration of high volumes of deeds and documents, enhance turnaround times, improve accuracy, and enable nationwide access to deeds registration services. Although the timeline for transitioning from a paper-based system to an electronic platform is still unclear, we commit to keeping you informed.
View our latest original material on the digitalisation of deeds registration, as featured in South African news media, here.
New look, same dedicated service: STBB Noordhoek unveils training and meeting facility
Earlier this month, STBB Noordhoek proudly celebrated the unveiling of its expanded and newly renovated offices to some of our valued clients and community members. Our new training and meeting facility reflects our intention to cater to the needs of our wonderful clientele and provide a comfortable and inviting work environment. Managed by Director and experienced Conveyancer, Nicole Stevens, STBB Noordhoek is excited to continue its dedicated service offerings in a refurbished and modernised space.
For outstanding legal services in Noordhoek and surrounds, contact us at 021 784 1580 or visit our newly expanded offices at 3-4 Carlton Close, Noordhoek.
The Legally Speaking podcast: Your next favourite listen is a click away
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 process of replacing a lost or misplaced title deed, the impact of solar power installations on the sale of immovable property, the consequences of non-compliance with FICA requirements, and the implications of one’s matrimonial property regime upon death or divorce.
Explore our catalogue of episodes and tap into a wealth of practical legal advice and information!
