Dr Samantha Smith holds a BSocSci, LLB, LLM, and PhD (Law) from the University of Cape Town. Skilled in socio-legal analysis and writing, she previously worked in investigative legal research, with a special focus on animal law and environmental policy. As the firm's chief content writer and legal editor, Samantha is responsible for writing and or editing all STBB content, including all social media, newsflashes, newsletters, articles for publication in magazines and online portals, tenders and proposals, legal updates and presentations, webinar and podcast advertisements, new professional bios, brochures, information sheets, content for special projects, and various email publications.

All About Property | October 2024

EXPANDING OUR NATIONAL FOOTPRINT: CELEBRATING THE RE-LAUNCH OF STBB KZN IN DURBAN

Last week, we celebrated the re-launch of our office in KwaZulu-Natal with some of our valued clients and guests. With the formal incorporation of STBB KZN in July, our re-launch represents a significant milestone in our commitment to expanding our nationwide presence and delivering exceptional client service to South Africans. Managed by experienced and skilled Directors, Stavros Anthias and Renelle Moodley, our KZN office specialises in conveyancing, property law, commercial law, and estates. Aided by a capable team, we are confident that Stavros and Renelle will contribute to our continued success in the province and beyond.
For expert legal assistance, contact STBB KZN at 031 583 8060 or visit us at Cranbrook Park, 2 Cranbrook Crescent, La Lucia, Durban.

CITY OF CAPE TOWN COMMUNIQUE: NEW NHRA EXEMPTION AREAS GAZETTED

In a bid to minimise bureaucratic requirements, streamline development approvals, and reduce costs, the City of Cape Town recently confirmed that specific development focus areas (‘DFAs’) are now exempted from compliance with various requirements of the National Heritage Resources Act (‘NHRA’).

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SCA RULING: PURCHASERS OF LIFE RIGHTS CANNOT RECLAIM PURCHASE PRICE PAID OUT TO A DEVELOPER PRE-INSOLVENCY

The Supreme Court of Appeal (‘the SCA’) was recently tasked with determining whether a group of purchasers of life rights in a retirement scheme could claim repayment of the purchase price from the developer’s conveyancers, who disbursed the funds to the developer before the latter was declared insolvent.

What did the SCA find?

PROSPECTIVE TENANTS BEWARE: ONLINE RENTAL SCAMS ARE ON THE RISE

As consumers’ reliance on digital technology shows no signs of slowing down, it has emerged that criminals are increasingly targeting individuals who utilise unregulated online platforms to secure accessible rental accommodation.

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A BUYER’S MARKET: GAUTENG PROPERTY MARKET ON THE UPSWING

According to available data, the Gauteng residential property market is steadily recovering as investor confidence grows. After a considerable decline in business confidence during the lead up to the 2024 national elections, property experts note increasing interest from both local and foreign investors in Gauteng’s real estate. As the country’s economic hub, the province remains a popular option for young professionals, potential first-time purchasers, and savvy investors. Post-elections, property practitioners have recorded a spike in enquiries from foreign purchasers and expats looking to return home – and an improvement in the average purchase price of properties across major metros, notably Tshwane. With abundant ‘stock’, and analysts predicting further interest rate cuts, it’s a buyer’s market in Gauteng.

Looking to invest in Gauteng’s resurgent property market? With four offices strategically located across the province, STBB is well-placed to handle your property transaction.

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TO HAVE AND TO HOLD: WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR PROPERTY IF YOUR SPOUSE IS DECLARED INSOLVENT?

Undoubtedly, insolvency produces profound patrimonial and proprietary consequences. These consequences can be particularly devastating for married persons, irrespective of their marital regime.

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AIRBNB CALLS ON SA GOVERNMENT TO REGULATE LISTINGS

Amidst growing concerns that the explosion of Airbnb listings is contributing to a housing crisis in Cape Town, the company has called on the South African government to regulate the country’s short-term rental industry. Currently, there are no nationwide regulatory instruments governing Airbnb and other home-sharing applications. In 2019, the City of Cape Town, which boasts more Airbnb listings than Amsterdam, Singapore, and San Francisco combined, amended its Municipal Planning By-law to permit short-term letting for stays of 30 days or less. With the steady expansion of Airbnb listings and the attraction of digital nomads to Cape Town’s offerings, various stakeholders have lobbied for regulation to protect local residents from being priced out of the rental market in desirable areas. Prefacing its call for formal regulation, Airbnb suggests that government should establish a national host register and implement policies based on reliable data.

LEGALLY SPEAKING: BUSINESS INTERESTS & ESTATE PLANNING

In the final instalment of our engaging five-part series, Director and estate planning specialist, Refqah Ho-Yee, examines the ownership of certain business interests and the implications for estate and succession planning. To prevent unwanted complications, Refqah emphasises the importance of concluding formal agreements that expressly record one’s shareholding / member’s interest, capital investment, existing insurance policies, and the procedures to follow in the event of a business partner’s death.

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