Selling your home?Fix these things first
Knowing what improvements to make can give you the best return on investments
BY BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.zaMANY homeowners who are either not in a rush to sell their properties or forced to do so because of financial pressure, take the time to get their homes ready so they can get the best price.
And this often means making repairs or renovations before putting them on the market.
Sometimes, though, owners make too many renovations and lose money in the sale. Other times, they spend money on repairing the wrong features and ignoring those that buyers place more importance on.
What to fix
Choosing what to fix and what to leave is dependent on the potential value of the property, the repair costs and the seller’s expectation, says Sheriese Potgieter, the sales property practitioner at Just Property Queensburgh.
Her Heidelberg colleague, Carin Howell, adds: “You don’t have to fix everything but it’s worth getting input from your property professional on which defects, when fixed, will help you achieve a higher selling price.”
Many buyers place importance on kitchens and bathrooms, and so experts often advise that these areas should be the focus for any repairs or renovations. After all, whether for their own enjoyment or for resale value, it is always worth considering which improvements will add value to the home, says
Adrian Goslett, the regional director and chief executive of Re/Max of Southern Africa.
“This way, homeowners can ensure that whatever improvements are undertaken are most likely to generate a good return on investment when it’s time to sell the home.”
He notes that upgrading a kitchen or bathroom could add great value to your home, but acknowledges that this could easily become expensive.
Sellers should therefore focus on small projects that will add more than it costs to install.
“For example, you could upgrade the cabinets by painting or staining them to give them a modern look. You could also upgrade the cabinet handles, light fixtures and faucets.
“As cliché as it is to say, it is truly amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for your home. Just keep in mind that when selling a house, it would be better to keep the colours neutral to appeal to as many buyers as possible.”
Rhoda Dangazele, of Just Property Berea, agrees that the kitchen is the main area that will allow for a higher return on your home, “so make sure that it is in great condition”.
Nico Howell, of Just Property Heidelberg, warns, however, that while you might prefer to leave all defects as they are and rather drop your asking price, you don’t want defects to put potential purchasers
off. He has seen keen buyers back away from a leaking roof, damp, mould and mildew in the bathroom, unmatched or cracked tiles, and flaking shower ceilings.
“Sort out problems like these, or at least get quotes from specialists, handymen or builders.”
Be smart about what you choose to repair
When it comes to performing major remodelling or home improvement projects, Grahame Diedericks, the manager principal for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty, says statistics show that you’re unlikely to recoup the costs, so careful consideration is needed.
“If you’ve owned your home for five years or longer, or if you’ve been putting off maintenance tasks that you know needed doing, you may have a fair amount of work to do, but not all repairs are equal in this instance.
“And, with the costs of materials at an all-time high, you can’t afford to make mistakes at this juncture if you hope to realise the biggest possible return on the sale of what is probably your largest asset.”
If you plan on selling, make a list of all the significant repairs you think are required and if you aren’t sure which are critical, it would be wise to hire a home inspector who can prepare a report listing the necessary repairs, especially those that you would be required to disclose to potential buyers.
Once you have your list, Diedericks suggests you divide the repairs into three categories: l Minor and relatively inexpensive repairs that can easily be done before buyers come to view the
property, include landscaping, cleaning/repair of gutters or a fresh coat of paint.
l Major issues that you’ll either have to fix or otherwise disclose to buyers are those such as water and electrical systems, structural problems, wooddestroying insects or hazardous materials such as asbestos.
l Some problems from either of the lists can have the greatest potential to become deal breakers that deter potential buyers. These could include a cracked foundation, extensive termite damage or an ageing roof that needs replacing –and this is the list you ultimately want to focus on.
“What you add to the final list largely depends on your goals and the prevailing local market. Does a quick sale take precedence over maximum profit or is your main goal a high selling price?
“Ask your agent if they have noticed any issues that potential buyers are consistently walking away from and ask them to help you determine which repairs will strike the balance in between.”
Affordable overhauls
There are many low-cost improvements that will also help sell your home, says Margaret Msimango, of Just Property Pretoria North
“Curb appeal is extremely important – those first impressions last. It’s important to present a neat road frontage and entrance.”
Most purchasers are looking for a well-maintained property,” agrees Dumisani Sibisi, of Just Property Queensburgh.
“Yard cleaning and general tidying inside can assist in getting
the results sooner, as can sensible paint touch-ups.”
Dangazele echoes this: “A fresh coat of paint for dirty and untidy walls will do wonders to assist with selling a home or apartment. Declutter living areas, bedrooms and kitchens and stage the home so it has a neat but ‘lived-in’ feel. Outside, make sure the garden and driveway look appealing.”
Apart from these tried-and-true tricks, Goslett says there are other ways to increase the resale value of a home.
“For example, you would be surprised how simply installing a new outlet can declutter and modernise your home, especially if you install wall outlets equipped with built-in ports that are ready to plug your USB cables into.
“LED lighting can also have an impact on a home’s value because of its durability and low-energy consumption – not to mention that it can be used as trendy décor to light up cabinets and recessed corners in the home.”
He also suggests that homeowners think about heating and cooling solutions.
“Everyone knows that South African summers can be sweltering, but installing air conditioning can be expensive. Those without the budget could add ceiling fans, which are an appealing addition to any home. Not only will they help keep a room cool, but they also add a nice decorative touch to the space which can make the home more appealing to future buyers.
“Installing a wood-burning stove or fireplace to warm the home in our icy winters can also increase the resale value of the home.”
You could also add insulation.
UPGRADING a kitchen or bathroom could add great value to your home, but focus on small projects that will add more than they cost.PICTURE: ANETE LUSINA/PEXELS
Keep an eye on bigger picture, owners urged as pressure mounts
BY BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.zaASIGNIFICANT percentage of homeowners are being forced to sell their homes due to money struggles – and not only those who own properties at the affordable end of the market but also those at the upper end.
In the first three months of 2022, an estimated 20% of homeowners were selling in order to downscale as a result of financial problems.
Fast forward to the third quarter of this year – July to September – and 19% of homeowners are selling because of the pressure, states the latest FNB Property Barometer; 30% of them own properties valued at less than R750 000, and 11% own properties valued at more than R3.6 million.
This reason for selling remains the second-most common, the first being downscaling due to life stage.
“Sales due to financial pressure are still elevated at an estimated 19% of the market,” says FNB economist Siphamandla Mkhwanazi.
“However, despite the sharp rise in borrowing costs, these sales remain in line with the 18% long-term average (since Q4 ‘07). By price segments, the survey shows rising pressure in the affordable market, with an estimated 30% of sales likely due to financial pressure.”
The past two repo rate hikes of 0.75% have left many homeowners questioning if they should sell.
Carl Coetzee, the chief executive of BetterBond, says it’s “probably realistic” to expect a period where we will see
lower transaction volumes and dipping house prices. “We also anticipate a bit of segmentation in the market, between the lower end which is dependent upon housing finance, and the upper end where housing equity and wealth play a greater role.”
While it is difficult to predict what the Monetary Policy Committee will decide at its next meeting in November and January, he says some economists have forecast a 0.5% repo rate rise at each of these, and then holding steady after that.
“Sound fiscal policy dictates that interest rates must fluctuate to mitigate inflationary pressures – they can’t remain at the recordlow levels we saw during the pandemic.”
Many factors influence the demand for property and prices, but Samuel Seeff, the chairperson of the Seeff Property Group, says the interest rate and inflation have a “profound impact” on the property market, not just for those with a home loan, but also buyers and sellers. The interest rate has had the biggest impact on the property market over the past 30 months to the benefit of both buyers and sellers.
“It is precisely because of the 30% cut in the interest rate by the Reserve Bank to assist consumers during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic that the property market surged to record-high sales activity.
“While there was always an expectation that the interest rate would be normalised back to the pre-pandemic level once the economy recovers, we have now seen a hastening of this due to a spike in inflation.”
He explains that inflation is the rate at
which the prices of goods and services increase in the economy. Aside from aspects such as basic foods, this would include the price of petrol as well as Eskom electricity and so on.
“The South African Reserve Bank uses two key indicators to determine the interest rate. The first is the inflation rate, which it aims to keep between 3% and 6%, and the second is the performance of the rand against major international currencies such as the US dollar, euro and pound sterling.
The inflation rate averaged at 4.6% for 2021, but increased rapidly this year for various reasons, mostly external to the South African economy such as the oil price, imported food prices and the Russian War in Ukraine. Inflation spiked to 7.8% in July and declined slightly to 7.6% in August 2022.”
The spike in inflation, Seeff says, pushed the Reserve Bank to accelerate the rate hikes, and it responded with a 75 basis point hike in July and again in September. And chances are that another hike will come after the Reserve Bank’s November meeting.
“Higher interest rates have an affordability effect on buyers in that the cost of home loan finance increases. This means that the home loan repayments will increase for homeowners as well as new buyers.
“It also impacts sellers because lower demand and fewer buyers means that asking prices will be under pressure. Sellers will therefore need to be more careful in terms of how they price their properties.”
Does this mean that homeowners should sell their homes and rent instead, as interest rates climb?
“No,” says Coetzee.
“Buying a home is more than just a financial investment. Having a home of your own provides financial security and affords you the freedom to choose your own lifestyle. It’s also more rewarding to know that the amount you are paying each month for your home is going towards your own bond, and not someone else’s.”
He adds that the property market has proven to be a resilient asset class, especially during challenging economic times.
“Many expected the market to collapse during the pandemic, but the opposite happened. The record-low interest rates of 2020 helped bolster the property market so that it could withstand financial headwinds.
“The increase in first-time buyer activity during that time was a boon for the residential property market. Much of the buyer activity is now at the middle to upper end of the market, where buyers are less affected by interest rate changes.”
In addition, South Africans can take solace in the fact that the country’s monetary policy is in line with major economies globally, with the European Central Bank, US Federal Reserve, and Bank of England all having raised interest rates by this percentage.
“We are not alone. And we know we must keep inflation in hand, so it is worth having one eye on the bigger picture.
“South Africa responded pre-emptively to global inflationary pressures by starting its interest rate hike in November last year. So we are closer than others to reaching the end of this tightening cycle.”
rate hikes have made it difficult for
repaymentsALMOST 20% of sellers can no longer afford to keep their homes. PICTURE: KINDEL MEDIA/PEXELS
ROSEBANK
NEWLANDS
Small
Academic Mile! Security Complex set in pretty garden setting. Bachelor Flat with open plan living area and ample cupboards. Galley Kitchenette and Bathroom with Bath, Toilet and Basin. **Walk to UCT, Jammie Shuttle, Baxter Theatre, Restaurants, Shops and Transport.
Pied-à-terre Bachelor Apartment in Small Road. Security Complex with Lift and Lovely Views! Open plan Living Room with Built-in Cupboards. Fitted Kitchen and Bathroom with Shower. *Plus and Balcony. Shower Bathroom. Walk to Rondebosch Shops, Doctors Rooms, Baxter Theartre and Transport.
Lounge and Balcony with views. Full Bathroom and Sep Toilet. **Covered Parking Bay. **Walk to Kingsbury Hospital, Library, Restaurants, Jammie Shuttle, Shops and Transport!
Spacious Three Bedroomed Apartment (123m²) above the Main Road in pretty garden setting. Fitted Kitchen and Bathroom. *Parking Bay. Walk to UCT,
Bath. Fitted Kitchen. *Garage. *Walk to Shopping Centres, Restaurants, UCT and Transport.
Charming Two Bedroomed Apartment with Fitted Kitchen (with built-in Oven, Hob and Extractor Fan) open plan to Lounge and Balcony. Two Bedrooms with Ample Cupboards. Bathroom with Shower over Bath, Toilet and Basin. **Plus Carport. Academic Mile - Walk to UCT!.
Charming double storey Townhouse set in pretty garden. Three / Four Good Sized Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms, Lounge, Dining Room, Fitted Kitchen, Guest Toilet, Patio and Garden. **Garage and Parking Bay. **Plus Flatlet. **Walk to Schools, Shops & Transport.
Large One Bedroomed pied-à-terre Apartment with Lounge and Balcony & Stunning Mountain Views. 24HR Security Shareblock Complex. Fitted Kitchen. Shower Bathroom. **Garage. **Catering & Cleaning Services. **Walk to Shops, Baxter Theatre and Library!
PET-FRIENDLY GARDEN HOMES FOR THE PRICE OF A FLAT
PET-FRIENDLY GARDEN HOMES FOR THE PRICE OF A FLAT
The Viognier complex is an exciting new release of 204 ground floor homes in the established Aan de Wijnlanden security lifestyle estate in the Stellenbosch Winelands
The Viognier complex is an exciting new release of 204 ground floor homes in the established Aan de Wijnlanden security lifestyle estate in the Stellenbosch Winelands
TH enclosed landscaped and lawned garden, and an enclosed braai on an open patio, ideal for the enjoyment of young and old (and pets). The solid side-wall boundaries of the homes are designed for privacy and safety. The magical Stellenbosch mountain views and fresh country air is a priceless asset that comes with every home purchase.
Modern homes with top class finishes and amenities
THE DESIGNER Viognier two or three-bedroom homes will have an enclosed landscaped and lawned garden, and an enclosed braai on an open patio, ideal for the enjoyment of young and old (and pets). The solid side-wall boundaries of the homes are designed for privacy and safety. The magical Stellenbosch mountain views and fresh country air is a priceless asset that comes with every home purchase.
Access to all the Aan de Wijnlanden Estate facilities
Viognier residents will be able to enjoy the 50 hectare estate, including its modern clubhouse with its large entertainment area, kiddies clubhouse, tennis courts, equipped gymnasium, swimming pool kilometres of walking trails and a 5ha conservation area. The estate already provide for a 24 hour manned security team, a CCTV monitored system and biometric access control.
landscaped areas on the common property
Access to all the Aan de Wijnlanden Estate facilities
Location and access
Viognier residents will be able to enjoy the 50 hectare estate, including its modern clubhouse with its large entertainment area, kiddies’ clubhouse, tennis courts, equipped gymnasium, swimming pool, kilometres of walking trails and a 5ha conservation area. The estate already provide for a 24 hour manned security team, a CCTV monitored system and biometric access control.
Competitive levy
gas they use. Groundwater from the estate will be used to irrigate landscaped areas on the common property
Competitive levy
The competitive levy of only R1 400 a month covers all the costs of security, common property landscaping, estate management as well as normal sectional title costs.
Prices and plans
The competitive levy of only R1 400 a month covers all the costs of security, common property landscaping, estate management as well as normal sectional title costs.
The homes are thoughtfully designed to maximise space, enhanced by increased ceiling heights throughout. The finishes include fitted kitchens with granite tops, a selection of floor tiles, and vinyl floorboard finishes. High end sanitaryware and tapware are included, and the kitchen will be fitted with a gas hob oven. The houses will all be wired in order to be invertor ready, allowing residents to provide their own power back up system, and easily connect to essential plugs and lighting. A central fibre network will ensure that every home is internet ready, with several internet providers to choose from.
Modern homes with top class finishes and amenities
The homes are thoughtfully designed to maximise space, enhanced by increased ceiling heights throughout. The finishes include fitted kitchens with granite tops, a selection of floor tiles, and vinyl floorboard finishes. High end sanitaryware and tapware are included, and the kitchen will be fitted with a gas hob oven. The houses will all be wired in order to be invertor ready, allowing residents to provide their own power back up system, and easily connect to essential plugs and lighting. A central fibre network will ensure that every home is internet ready, with several internet providers to choose from.
Location and access
Viognier is centrally located, with easy access to Stellenbosch, Somerset West, Strand’s beaches and Cape Town International Airport. It’s set within minutes of some of the Western Cape’s best schools and universities.
A good investment
Viognier is centrally located, with easy access to Stellenbosch, Somerset West, Strand’s beaches and Cape Town International Airport. It’s set within minutes of some of the Western Cape’s best schools and universities.
All the homes have been planned and designed with economy of running costs and reduced maintenance in mind. Energy usage will be minimised by the provision of gas hobs and a central hot water system allowing homeowners to pay only for the hot water and
A good investment
All the homes have been planned and designed with economy of running costs and reduced maintenance in mind. Energy usage will be minimised by the provision of gas hobs and a central hot water system, allowing homeowners to pay only for the hot water and
Prices and plans
There are four plans, with the two bedroom one bathroom home starting at R1 295 000, and the three bedroom two bathroom home from R1 595 000. The price includes VAT, a parking bay and transfer fees. Lock up garages are available for sale, and there is an option to enclose the patio with aluminum sliding doors.
Occupation of the homes will be from July 2023.
There are four plans, with the two bedroom one bathroom home starting at R1 295 000, and the three bedroom two bathroom home from R1 595 000. The price includes VAT, a parking bay and transfer fees. Lock up garages are available for sale, and there is an option to enclose the patio with aluminum sliding doors.
Occupation of the homes will be from July 2023.
For further details visit viognier.aandewijnlanden.co.za or phone Nicho at 072 601 1772 or Hannes at 066 476 1890
For further details visit viognier.aandewijnlanden.co.za or phone Nicho at 072 601 1772 or Hannes at 066 476 1890
DOGON
Atlantic
Office
PROPERTIES
DOGON
Sea Point
DOGON
DOGON GROUP PROPERTIES
Western
LUNAR
Cape Town Office
INSTALLERS
SHELLEY RESIDENTIAL
www.shelley.co.za
BALWIN PROPERTIES
Ballito
www.iolproperty.co.za
Have you discovered these digital magazines yet?
To receive all
with
directly