Property360 - National Digital Magazine - 2 December 2022

There are some silver linings to interest rate hikes

AFEW years ago, a new property trend started to emerge, with many upmarket homes advertising a “snore room” as one of their selling features. The room was usually a smaller bedroom, sometimes attached to the main bedroom, that had a separate bed for one partner to retreat to each evening.

It was called the “snore room” because couples who advocated having one said one partner snored and kept the other awake at night. Other reasons then emerged, including one partner being a restless sleeper and disturbing the other’s sleep while they flailed around at night, or both partners having different waking up times.

Whatever the reasons, having a snore room started to become “a thing”.

Fast forward a few years and it appears that couples in favour of sleeping apart no longer even make reference to their partner’s room being a snore room. It is simply a case of each person in the relationship having their own bedroom.

Of course, there are those who are opposed to even the thought of

sleeping away from their significant others, with arguments including that it breaks a couple’s intimacy; can cause partners to drift apart; or even that marriage was not designed for couples to sleep apart, no matter how difficult sharing a bed may be.

The trend has even been referred to as a “sleep divorce”, and Dr Greg Smalley, the vice-president of Marriage at Focus on the Family, says whether this is bad for your relationship depends on the couple.

“It’s important to look at the motivation. If this is because the couple is disconnected, they’ve had a lot of conflict, or they prefer that one of them sleeps with the kids, that’s only masking deeper issues that they need to go to counselling to address.”

If work schedules and life events have forced you and your spouse into a sleep divorce, he says there are ways to remain intimately connected, even when you have to sleep apart. One way is to take advantage of “sacred moments”.

In their book Reconnected, written by Smalley and Erin Smalley, Erin explains the meaning and significance of sacred moments.

“A sacred moment is a specific experience that facilitates

connection between you and your spouse,” she writes. “We have 1 440 minutes per day. Most of your minutes each day contain very few sacred relational moments. Recognise your sacred connection moments and protect them.”

Smalley adds: “The master bedroom should be a sacred place because of its ability to have that inner life conversation, to be physically intimate and to laugh and be playful. And as long as intimacy takes place within those four walls, not actually sleeping next to each other is not necessarily wrong. When a couple is sleeping, that’s a time there’s a ‘very low sacred connection opportunity’.”

He also provides a healthy option for spouses who want a sleep divorce.

“Start off together and then one spouse can move to a different bed if it’s a snoring issue or a temperature issue. Then you’ve had a connection. Ten minutes a day of that connection makes such a difference.”

Citing research, Focus on the Family also states in an article on its website that people who slept less than an inch (2.5cm) apart from their partner were happier in their

Is it really wrong for married couples to sleep in separate rooms?

BY BONNY FOURIE bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.za

relationship than those who slept more than 30 inches apart.

Either way, the trend looks like it is here to stay, with more people speaking out about it on social media platforms and advocating for its benefits.

The importance of sleep

Why many psychologists or marriage experts do not completely disagree with sleeping in separate bedrooms, they do warn that relationships can break down if the habit or routine is not handled correctly. Some even believe that sleeping apart may do more harm than good, unless the reasons for it are due to disruptive sleep. This is because quality sleep is an important requirement for daily living, and the lack of it can negatively impact one’s life.

While there are many factors that may serve as a deal-breaker within a relationship, Johannesburg clinical psychologist Liane Lurie says snoring need not be one of them. In fact, it is important that the non-snoring partner separates the involuntary behaviour of snoring from the character of who their partner actually is, she adds, explaining that they are not

deliberately doing this to harm or irritate their partners.

“Many couples have adjusted to a comfortable sleeping routine, only to find that an episode of sleepless nights suddenly alerts them to their partner’s problem. For others, a normal sleep routine was never established and restless sleep becomes the norm.

“It is important that the snoring problem is not ignored as it may signify a more serious sleep disorder that interferes with breathing. Disrupted sleep also plays a massive part in one’s mood and general dayto-day functioning.”

Despite their best efforts to remain in the same bed, Lurie says some couples do eventually opt for separate bedrooms, and these are often those couples that have tried adjusting sleep positions and were left exasperated. And while it may seem like a good idea in theory, she says couples have to be careful that they don’t “simply go their separate ways at night like room-mates”.

“Intimate time spent cuddling, having sex, sharing a movie together all form part of a healthy relationship. Quality contact before you go to your respective beds is crucial.”

MANY COUPLES say sleeping apart is normal for them.

Whether it’s a good thing depends on your relationship and the motivation behind it. Either way, the trend is here to stay

NOT ONLY will landlords immediately benefit from the rate increase as more people remain in the rental market, but homeowners will also reap rewards, eventually.

Experts from the Rawson Property Group say that ultimately, there are silver linings homeowners, landlords, and tenants can be thankful for as we head into the final stretch of 2022.

Lenders remain eager to finance home loans

Buyer affordability has taken a knock over the past 12 months, with interest rates rising from 7.5% in January to 10.5% at the end of November. This has eaten into the average consumer’s disposable income to a significant degree.

However, Leonard Kondowe, the finance manager for the Rawson Property Group, says it hasn’t slowed lending appetites.

“If anything, lenders are more motivated than ever to secure qualified buyers. They’re offering really favourable interest rates, at below prime for the most part. There are also 100% to 105% loans on offer for financially secure buyers who prefer not to put down a deposit.”

He warns though that opting for a higher loan-to-value ratio (such as a 100% or 105% bond) will

attract a higher interest rate than a purchase with a deposit. As such, he encourages prospective buyers to save – but not necessarily put their purchase plans on hold.

“The most important thing is not to make assumptions. Rather get prequalified by a bond originator for accurate insight into your finance prospects and solid ideas on how to improve your credit record if necessary.”

Property prices are growing – but not too fast for buyers

With massive global insecurity affecting markets across the world, South African property values have proven remarkably resilient this year, says Rawson managing director Tony Clarke.

“Average growth figures have hovered at around 3.5%. There are, of course, pockets of property that have done better than some, but overall performance has been reassuringly stable.”

This is a silver lining to homeowners looking to preserve the value of their money in a secure and stable asset, and prospective buyers who can find value for money on the market.

Rental rates are stabilising – as are tenants Jacqui Savage, the national rentals

BY BONNY FOURIE

manager for the Rawson Property Group, says the rental market is also ending the year on a good note, with positive (if modest) escalation in three of its five price brackets.

Tenant payment behaviour has also shown improvement, particularly in the mid- to upperlevel rental brackets, with the R12 000 to R25 000 bracket experiencing its best good standing rate yet, at 87%.

“It’s been great to see tenant payment behaviour recovering to post-pandemic levels. It’s a positive sign that tenant affordability and rental escalations have reached a healthy equilibrium.

“We’re optimistic for further recovery in 2023.”

Year-end bonuses are on their way

Those lucky enough to get a yearend bonus could add another property-related positive to their 2022 list, Kondowe says.

“By investing even a small amount of extra income into your bond, you can save tens of thousands of rand in the long run. If you’re hoping to buy in the new year, on the other hand, your bonus could also be used to boost your deposit, reducing the size of the loan you need to apply for

bronwyn.fourie@inl.co.za

while simultaneously encouraging lenders to put their best finance offers forward.”

While November 24th’s interest rate hike was expected to have a “dampening effect” on the residential property market and place further strain on consumers, Rhys Dyer, the chief executive of ooba Group, says the silver lining is that it appears that progress is being made in containing inflation locally and globally.

“It also narrows the chances of significant rate increases in 2023.”

This is also positive for aspiring homeowners who may be reconsidering their decision to buy a property. Dyer says there are four factors that indicate that it’s a good time to invest in property:

✦ The revised interest rate is one of the best experienced over the past 25 years.

✦

High interest rates slow new demand for property, which results in lower property prices, meaning that it’s still a buyer’s market.

✦ Banks continue to compete for home loan business by approving home loans on attractive terms.

✦

Property prices remain affordable across many parts of the country.

Adding to this, the current environment is good news for property investors looking at

buy-to-rent options.

“Investors are able to cash in on the demand from a new wave of tenants – those who have chosen not to buy because they’re sensitive to interest rate fluctuations.”

He says ooba’s stats show that the national rebound in demand for investment/buy-torent properties continues – rising to 8.1% of total applications in October 2022.

Carl Coetzee, the chief executive of BetterBond, says that while the decision to increase the repo rate before the festive season is not what consumers wanted to hear, “we must acknowledge that the Reserve Bank is doing what it can to control inflation, so that we can look forward to lower interest rates again towards the end of next year”.

“This increase, while an uncomfortable one, should help to bring inflation closer to the midline target and, once inflation starts dropping, so too will the interest rate.”

Even in the environment of economic uncertainty, High Street Auctions director Greg Dart says investors should be looking at property as a haven for longterm investment.

“Real estate is a tangible asset. It’s bricks and mortar. Anyone with funds at their disposal right now should consider the value of property, which is likelier to deliver far greater returns in the long term than other investments, with the added advantage of being more secure.”

Dyer says home buyers are able to take advantage of the positive lending environment and ease their affordability concerns by shopping around for a home loan.

“Our research shows that homebuyers who obtain only a single home loan quote will repay their home loan at an interest rate that is, on average, 1.03% (103 basis points) higher than those who obtained multiple quotes. This puts money back into the pocket of consumers.”

HOME buyers are able to take advantage of the positive lending environment and ease their affordability concerns by shopping around for a home loan.

NEW, AFFORDABLE SENIOR-LIVING RESIDENCE IN BRYANSTON OFFERS FLEXIBLE OPTIONS

TRADITIONAL old age homes with medical care, while more affordable, are often associated with single rooms in a large institutional building, cramped living conditions and depressing surroundings. On the other end of the scale, there are high-end developments priced between R3 million to R4m for life rights a price tag few can afford.

A development in the heart of Bryanston, Monarchs Senior Living, offers units priced from R490 000 for life rights or a monthly rental starting at R6 250 a month. It caters for those who are independent and those who require assisted living or full time care.

With 84 new individual units, Monarchs is close to medical facilities and convenient shopping It is located on a secure 10 000m² property with lush garden and optional convenient services.

Nina Gomes, the general manager, says: “Senior living incorporates so much more than medical care. A hospitality approach focuses on lifestyle support services, such as a personal admin service that can help residents with tech support and there is a wellness centre on site

with a yoga studio and salon.

“We have regular shuttle services to surrounding shopping centres and a gardening service.”

Senior living developments increasingly appeal to younger residents (aged 50 and over) who are independent, want the freedom of a lock-up-and go, are active and seek an environment that is conducive to regular family visits.

“Our disruptive model allows seniors to be completely independent, but they can access additional services they’d like or need and only pay for what they use. For instance, each unit has its own kitchenette but there is also a catering service available if residents would prefer not to cook. They can enjoy their meals in their rooms or visit their families in a beautifully appointed bright and airy open area,” says Gomes.

“Monarchs’ residents remain in their specific unit for life. We’ll bring care services, like nursing, to your room instead of uprooting you and moving you to a frail care facility if you require more intensive medical care. Living in their own units also helps residents retain their

dignity and independence for as long as possible and keeps costs down, with enhanced care only charged on a transparent ‘as you-need it’ basis.”

PLAN FOR SENIOR LIVING BEFORE YOU NEED IT

There has been positive demand for units at Monarchs in Bryanston, which has 84 individual units with private patios or balconies.

A fixed, transparent monthly cost covers maintenance and the infrastructure. There is also a menu of available services, which are billed only when used. Units can be rented or purchased with a life right, allowing for financial planning with no surprises.

A life right means you pay an upfront amount and this gives you, as well as your spouse, the right to occupy and enjoy your unit for the remainder of your life. There is no transfer duty or VAT payable. Should you pass away or leave, a minimum of 70% of your original capital is returned which can be bequeathed to your heirs. Alternatively, you can rent a unit at a fixed monthly rate. Visit www.monarchs.co.za or call 010 065 1377

Monarchs’ unit with en suite bathroom

Monarchs’ room facing onto garden

Monarchs ’ spacious lounge and dining areas

SALT RIVER R1,050 MILLION

RONDEBOSCH R1,15 MILLION

RONDEBOSCH R5,3 MILLION CAVENDISH HEIGHTS R2,1 MILLION

RONDEBOSCH R1, 5 MILLION

ROND EBOSC H R1, 5 M I LL IO N

ROSEBANK R1,68 MILLION

RONDEBOSCH R1,95 MILLION

WHITEHALL COURT R1,35 MILLION

RONDEBOSCH R3,5 MILLION

Complex above Main Road. Large Three Bedroomed Apartment (127m²) with mountain views. Fitted Kitchen and Lounge with Balcony. *Plus Garage. *Close to UCT, Schools, Shops and Transport.

Spacious North-Facing Two Bedroomed Apartment with Lounge and Balcony with Mountain Views. Bathroom with Shower over Bath. Fitted Kitchen. *Garage. *Walk to Shopping Centres, Restaurants, UCT and Transport.

Small Security Complex above the Main Road. Large modernised Bachelor converted to One Bedroomed Apartment (46m²) with Kitchenette, Built-in Cupboards and Balcony. Shower Bathroom. Walk to UCT, Jammie Shuttle, Shops & Transport.

Small Security Complex. Two Spacious Bedroomed Apartment with lounge leading to large Balcony. Fitted Kitchen & Full Bathroom. *Parking Bay. Close to Dean Street Shops, Restaurant and Jammie Shuttle Stop.

Spacious North-Facing Two Bedroomed Apartment with Lounge and Balcony with Mountain Views. Bathroom with Shower over Bath. Fitted Kitchen. *Garage. *Walk to Shopping Centres, Restaurants, UCT and Transport.

Spacious Three Bedroomed Apartment (123m²) above the Main Road in pretty garden setting. Fitted Kitchen and Bathroom. *Parking Bay. Walk to UCT, Jammie Shuttle, Main Road Shops & Transport.

Security Complex Ecklenberg in pretty garden setting. Spacious Three Bedroomed Apartment (200m²) with Stunning Mountain Views. *Kitchen, Dining Room, Sun Room, Two Full Bathrooms, TV Lounge & Laundry Room. *Tandem Garage.

to Shops & Transport.

Charming Two Bedroomed Apartment (95m²) with Fitted Kitchen open to Dining Room / Lounge and Balcony with views. Full Bathroom and Sep Toilet. **Covered Parking Bay. **Walk to Kingsbury Hospital, Library, Restaurants, Jammie Shuttle, Shops and 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!

Charming and Large Modernised Three Bedroomed, Two Bathroomed Apartment with Entrance Hall, Lounge and Balcony. Modern Fitted Kitchen with built-in Oven, Hob and Extractor Fan. Close to Kelvin Grove Club, Newlands Cricket Stadium, leading Schools, Shops and Transport.

24 HR Security Complex. One Bedroomed Apartment with open plan Kitchen (with fitted Oven and Hob,) Lounge and Balcony with views. En-Suite Bathroom. **Undercover Parking Bay. **Walk to Red & Yellow Creative Business School, Old Biscuit Mill, Schools, Shops, Restaurants 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!.

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.

DOGON GROUP PROPERTIES

Atlantic Seaboard Office 021 433 2580 thekings@dogongroup.com www.dogongroup.com

RHONDA RAAD PROPERTIES

Cape Town Office 082 448 7795 Email: rrpsales@mweb.co.za www.rhondaraadproperties.co.za

SHELLEY RESIDENTIAL

KZN

Office 082 412 4463 Email: hello@shelley.co.za www.shelley.co.za

DOGON GROUP RENTALS

Sea Point Office 021 433 2580 enquiries@dogongroup.com www.dogongroup.com

CAPE WINELANDS Nicho 072 601 1772 Hannes 066 476 1890 sales@aandewijnlanden.co.za viognier.aandewijnlanden.co.za

SERENITY HILLS ECO ESTATE

KZN, South Coast Office 073 142 8292

Email: home@serenityhills.co.za www.serenityhills.co.za

DOGON GROUP PROPERTIES

Southern Suburbs, Claremont Office 021 671 0258 southernsuburbs@dogongroup.com www.dogongroup.com

PETER MASKELL AUCTIONEERS

KZN

Office: 033 397 1190 Email: info@maskell.co.za www.bidlive.maskell.co.za

WYTHAM ESTATE

KENILWORTH, CAPE TOWN 063 707 2886 sales@wytham.estate www.wytham.estate

DOGON GROUP PROPERTIES

Western Seaboard Office: 021 556 5600 or 021 433 2580 enquiries@dogongroup.com www.dogongroup.com

BALWIN PROPERTIES

Ballito

Office 084 788 1020 Email: michelle@balwin.co.za www.balwin.co.za

www.iolproperty.co.za

PAARL, BOLAND, CT

Werner Pieters 082 363 6089 Marius Pieters 082 566 0853 sales@grootparysestate.co.za www.grootparysestate.co.za