Darren is an admitted Attorney and Conveyancer of the High Court of South Africa. An experienced and consummate professional, he graduated with a BA (UCT), LLB (UWC), and an HDip in Company Law (Stellenbosch). In 1996, Darren embarked on his career in law when he commenced articles of clerkship at the Cape Town-based firm of CK Friedlander Shandling Volks. Post-admission as an attorney, he practised as a professional assistant at CK Friedlander Shandling Volks from 1998 to 2000, and was subsequently appointed as a Director of that firm. In 2002, Darren joined STBB as a Director specialising in all aspects of property law. In June 2005, he was elected to the firm’s Executive Committee and, as of July 2022, serves as Managing Director. Skilled in contractual drafting, negotiation, and development feasibility, Darren’s expertise covers all facets of property law, conveyancing, and notarial practice – with a particular emphasis on commercial property finance transactions. To that end, he has acted for numerous local and international banks, luxury property developers, and large corporates.

Newsflash | Homeloans and Foreign Marriages: ABSA and FNB Specific Requirements

We have received indication from both ABSA and FNB that where a client’s marriage is governed by the laws of a foreign country, these banks require that the bond must be registered in the name of both spouses and that the application submitted needs to be by both spouses notwithstanding that the spouse applying for the financing may have sought to take out the loan in his or her own name.

The consequence is that if a loan is sought in respect of the purchase of immovable property from FNB or ABSA, such a purchaser will have to involve his or her spouse as co-purchaser and Co-Applicant, so that the bond that is registered can then reflect both owners as debtors of ABSA or FNB, whichever is applicable.

Keep this in mind when concluding agreements with purchaser(s) whose marriage is governed by the laws of another country. Contact your STBB conveyancer should you require any assistance.

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