Letter from the editor

THE NEW year is here, with the hope that the property market will not lose traction, in spite of rising interest rates and the predicted increases in the cost of utilities.

We can buy into the story of fear and anxiety – that things will turn so bad we won’t be able to service our existing bonds or that house prices will drop – but, because of other rising costs, we won’t be able to afford to jump on to the property ladder… Or we can turn to the ever optimistic people in the property industry, who insist the safest and best asset you can have is property, and that things will get better and so on.

At the start of the year, I know which story I would rather buy into.

I was talking to an analyst recently, who advised that buying property was a good idea, his thought being that, over the long term, things that go down do eventually go up.

However, one only has to look at places such as Hillbrow in Joburg, for instance, where the area suddenly turned, to know you have to be very wise when making an investment. I remember as a young reporter watching the elderly, who had invested in the area for retirement, scuttling about anxiously with the ominous presence of growing crime.

That’s why homeowners do need to be vigilant and aware when they see bad things happening in their areas, and communities do need to be stronger than ever. In cities, where people prefer anonymity, being more involved might be the best option.

Get to know your neighbourhood watch groups, support neighbourhood CAN groups, pick up the litter, get to know the councillor in your ward. Support social causes.

It’s a new world with a bit of the old.

We are at the precipice… and, ultimately, you get to choose which story you’ll take with you into the year.

I wish you well and we will keep a close eye on the property world and keep you informed.

Warm regards

Vivian Warby and team

vivian.warby@inl.co.za