Latest news with #REMAXSouthernAfrica
The Citizen
26-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
3 property investment strategies to build wealth in uncertain times
In today's unpredictable economic landscape, property investment remains one of the most reliable methods for building and preserving wealth. Whether it's VAT hike reversals, interest rate changes, or global political tensions, savvy investors know how to navigate volatility to their advantage. The secret lies in adopting the right strategies tailored to uncertain times. 'The current climate of uncertainty is being felt universally, with geopolitical tensions contributing to economic volatility not just here in South Africa, but across the globe. While challenges exist, we have always seen that the South African property market shows remarkable resilience when approached with the right strategy,' says Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of REMAX Southern Africa. Focus on Cash Flow–Positive Properties 'In uncertain times, liquidity and stability become paramount. Cash flow–positive properties (those that generate more rental income than their monthly expenses) can offer a steady income stream, acting as a buffer against broader financial shocks,' says Goslett. For those who would like to put this advice into practice: Avoid maxing out your credit. If interest rates increase, this could put you under strain. Before making a purchase, analyse all costs, including mortgage repayments, maintenance, property management, and vacancy rates. Use conservative estimates when calculating expected rental income to ensure the property remains cash flow positive even in downturns. Diversify Your Portfolio Geographically 'Market conditions vary from region to region. What might be a buyer's market in one city could be a seller's market in another. Geographic diversification helps spread risk and reduces exposure to localised downturns,' says Goslett. For those who would like to put this advice into practice: Don't overlook secondary or emerging markets just outside city centres. They often offer better value and growth potential than saturated urban centres. Monitor regional economic drivers such as job growth, infrastructure development, and population trends. Adopt a Long-Term Mindset 'Property values generally appreciate over time despite short-term fluctuations. A buy-and-hold strategy enables you to ride out volatility while building equity,' says Goslett. For those who would like to put this advice into practice: Invest in low-maintenance properties to reduce long-term upkeep costs. Choose locations with strong fundamentals like employment opportunities, school zones, and transport. 'Uncertain times often bring the best opportunities for those who are well-prepared. By focusing on smart, resilient property investment strategies, you can not only weather the storm but also position yourself to thrive when stability returns. Remember, the key is not to fear uncertainty but to understand how to leverage it to your financial advantage,' says Goslett. Issued by: Kayla Ferguson
The Citizen
06-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Why winter is a hot time to buy property
Contrary to popular belief, the Winter months are not a dead zone in the South African real estate market. In fact, data compiled by REMAX of Southern Africa dispels the myth that property sales go quiet during the colder season. According to internal national sales figures for REMAX Southern Africa, June, July, and August consistently reflect slightly higher transaction volumes throughout the year. This surprising trend illustrates that Winter offers fertile ground for property transactions, challenging the notion that warmer months are inherently better for buying and selling real estate. 'While our stats pick up from June, our registered sales figures tend to peak in September and November and then drop off in December and January,' says Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of REMAX Southern Africa. But these peaks don't necessarily indicate when buyers are most active – they reflect when sales are officially registered. In South Africa, it typically takes up to three months for a property sale to move from the point of offer to full registration in the Deeds Office. This means that homes registered in September and November were often secured by buyers during the Winter months of June, July, and August. 'When you account for the time lag between sale and registration, it becomes clear that Winter is when many buyers are actively making offers,' Goslett explains. While sales figures appear to dip in December and January, this is also easily explained by external factors. These months coincide with South Africa's peak holiday season, during which many buyers and sellers are on vacation, and the Deeds Office closes for a period in December, creating natural delays in the registration process. 'It's not necessarily that the market goes quiet—it's that administrative processes slow down over this period,' says Goslett. 'Buyers and sellers still transact, but you'll only see those deals finalised and registered in the months that follow.' According to Goslett, understanding when the property market is most active is essential because it allows buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals to make smarter, more strategic decisions. 'For buyers, knowing the peak periods helps them avoid fierce competition and potentially negotiate better deals during quieter months. Sellers, on the other hand, can time their listings to align with periods of heightened buyer activity,' he notes. With the winter months fast approaching, South African sellers are encouraged to shed the outdated view of seasonal lulls. Winter might feel cold; but in property, it's heating up. 'Ultimately, seasonal trends can influence pricing, speed of sale, and the overall success of a property transaction. But each suburb can have its own unique trends. Speak to your local real estate professional for some insights into what's happening in your specific area and how to best position yourself in the current market conditions,' Goslett concludes. Issued by: Kayla Ferguson
