What is to be disclosed by sellers to purchasers?

In real estate, one principle remains timeless: a great location will always outperform great finishes. Renovations can transform a home’s comfort and appeal, but they can’t shift a property closer to top schools, thriving business hubs, popular lifestyle estates, or the ocean. And in South Africa’s complex market, where service delivery, safety, and lifestyle demand vary sharply from street to street, location has become the biggest driver of long-term value.

With the rising cost of living and tighter bank lending conditions, many homeowners are looking for ways to cut costs when selling, including the idea of avoiding estate agent commission by selling privately. While this may seem like a way to keep more money in your pocket, the risks in today’s market are far higher than most people realise. A private sale can quickly become expensive, stressful, and legally risky if you’re not fully prepared.

South Africans continue to see property as one of the most stable and rewarding investments, even amid economic uncertainty. The Absa Homeowner Sentiment Index (HSI) for Q3 2025 shows that overall confidence in the property market remains high at 85%, only slightly down from 86% in the previous quarter.