Constantly evolving regulations, a
fluctuating market, and ever-changing neighborhoods. FindEstate is a
constantly-moving industry that requires expert insight and knowledge.
FindEstate provides the latest news and advice on everything property related
for all sides of the spectrum.
In our one-stop property advice portal, you can
find:
Buying guide
Buying a property can be confusing
and difficult. Get help with your next purchase. No need to swat up on the
latest planning terminology, or decipher lengthy contracts. We will be the
property experts, so don’t have to. There is a whole new language of jargon to
learn, a huge amount of money at stake and there isn’t anyone on your side as a
buyer. Findestate experts are on hand to sense check prices for you, answer any
questions.
Selling guide
If it’s the first or 50th time you
have sold a property, the process can offer up a unique situation each time. If
you are thinking of selling a property in South Africa, we can make it a smooth
process at every stage. Whether it’s a family home or rental property, our team
of experts have years of experience so can make it simple and easy.
We can
guide you on choosing a good agent, ensuring the property is priced right and
clarify legal jargon for you. Our agents are here to support you to make sure
the process is smooth and simple. Let us take the mystery out of the process
and provide the property advice you need to get the right buyer.
Tenant guide
Whether you have lived in the private
rented sector for a long time or are considering moving into a rented home, you
have certain rights which are protected by law. It's important to know, not
just your rights as a tenant, but also your responsibilities.
Deposits in Private Tenancies
Most landlords will ask for a
security deposit from each tenant in a property. This money is used as
insurance against any damage you may cause or rent you may owe at the end of
the tenancy.
Before you sign a Tenancy Agreement
Once you sign a tenancy agreement,
you will usually be expected to keep to the conditions of the agreement until
it ends. It's important that you check a few things out before you sign and
don't let yourself be rushed into anything.
Your rights as a Private Tenant
All private tenants have some basic
legal rights. Your other rights can depend on when your tenancy started and
what your tenancy agreement says.
Rent, Rates and Housing Benefit
You must pay rent to your landlord in
return for living in the property. If you stop paying your rent, are late with
a payment or do not pay in full, your landlord may begin eviction proceedings
against you.
Repairs and safety for Private Tenants
You should report any damage or
disrepair to your landlord immediately. It's always a good idea to follow up
any reports you make over the phone or in person with a letter so both you and
your landlord have a record of any work that needs to be done.
Ending a Private Tenancy
There are certain steps you need to
take to end your tenancy. It can be difficult to get out of a tenancy before
the expiry date, even if you have a valid reason for wanting out.
Your responsibilities as a Private Tenant
It's important to be aware of your
responsibilities to your landlord. While many of these responsibilities will be
explained in your tenancy agreement, there are also certain responsibilities
which are outlined in law.
Tenancy Agreements
Your landlord does not have to give
you a tenancy agreement. But, it's a good idea to have one of these. It means
both you and the landlord know your rights and responsibilities. A tenancy
agreement is a legal contract. It is very difficult to get out of a tenancy
agreement before its end date.
Advice for
landlords
If you are a landlord or are thinking
about buying a property to rent out, you should make sure that you are aware of
all the laws which you must obey. Things will go much more smoothly if you keep
accurate records and get to know your rights and responsibilities. Contact us
and get advice on your rights and responsibilities as a landlord.
Choosing Tenants
People who are interested in moving
in to your property will probably start to contact you as soon as you have advertised
the letting. An agent will usually find tenants for your property for an agreed
fee, but there are some things you should consider if you decide to go it
alone.
Your rights as a Landlord
Once you set up as a landlord, you
have certain rights which your tenants must respect.
Getting ready for New Tenants
Once you've chosen your tenants, you
need to draw up a tenancy agreement and provide the tenant with certain legally
required documents.
Dealing with Problem Tenants
As with any business, being a landlord
carries risk. Keep records of any letters or messages you send to your tenants
when you are trying to sort out problems. These will help if a legal dispute
arises and you end up in court.
Process for ending a Tenancy
You and your tenants have to follow a
certain process to end the tenancy. You can end up in court if you, or your
agent, does not follow this process.