AUG/SEPTEMBER 2020

WOMEN IN
PROPERTY KIM
FACLIER
BUSINESS (UN)USUAL
Returning to the office
BOLD, FEARLESS & FEMALE
Women dominate property market
 MASTER INVESTOR
Kim Faclier
Female Pioneer Challenging the Status Quo
PROFILE
Full Name: Kim Faclier
Company: GoIndustry DoveBid SA
(Pty) Limited
Current Position: Managing Director
of Property
Hobbies: Running, cycling, hiking, yoga
& jumping on my trampoline! Love
being outdoors and in nature.
Travelling without a doubt! I’ve visited
more than 70 countries to date, with
many more to go! Documenting these
adventures through the lens of my
career remains a highlight.
Favourite building: Antoni Gaudi
‘Sagrada Familia” in Barcelona is
beyond exquisite, Santiago Calatrava’s
masterpieces across the globe,
especially ‘The Oculus’ in New York & of
course, Frank Gehry’s world-renowned
attractions are right up there too! Saint
Basil's Cathedral, in Red Square,
Moscow, Russia and Angkor Wat, Siem
Riep, Cambodia were spell-binding to
witness as well!
Favourite book: I love anything
interesting and inspiring, biographies
as well as autobiographies.
Marital status: Single, still waiting for
the right man!
Children: My 4 G-d children
completely own my heart! Eden, 19,
Leo, 16, Lily 13 and Adam, 11!
4 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
Y Property Professional
ou are unique! And what drives your zeal and dedication
professional trajectory and ultimately our destination in life.
For some, seeing someone else push through obstacles
gives them the spark to work even harder and keep testing
possibilities. For others, bravely hewing their own path
journey. One such maverick in the making is this month’s
Master Investor, Kim Faclier.
Kim has an unquenchable thirst for expansive networking
across a global landscape, vigorously interacting with a diverse
range of people and leaning into her exceptional role models.
Purpose-driven and passionate about squeezing the most out
of every hour of the day, her family roots have laid a unique
foundation for her positioning as a “Go Giver” instead of a “Go
Getter”.
Faclier, Managing Director of Property at GoIndustry
DoveBid, and multi award-winning property guru has worked
in the commercial, residential, industrial and auction property
sector for over 25 years.
“My journey through the property and business leadership
spheres has gifted me with the opportunity to touch down in
over 70 countries over the last 30 years. I have been blessed
to experience multiple cultures, soak up exquisite vistas and
build an ever-expanding family of personal and professional
relationships that enrich my life every day. I wake up
emotionally and physically energized by the collective brains
intellectually nourished each night.”
“Above all accolades and awards I have received, my most
cherished possessions are the values instilled in me by my
loving parents. Senses of empathy, kindness, humility, integrity,
respect for diverse opinions, unbridled ambition, belief in self
and a work ethic that is a legacy to their exemplary parenting.
All these are qualities of an industry leader driving the property
division of GoIndustry DoveBid SA (Pty) Limited. The African
representative of Liquidity Services with decades of experience
in the corporate , government, real estate, retail and legal
sectors and who held their first multiple property online
auction over nine years ago in 2011.
The company opened its doors in Cape Town in 2001,
spearheaded by auction veteran, John Cowing, who hosted the
continent's first online auction in 2004, thereby introducing
this specialised disposal process to the South African market.
Liquidity Services Inc (LSI), listed on the NASDAQ stock
exchange, is a global leader in surplus asset management
solutions. With multiple online marketplaces, they
specialise in a wide variety of services tailored for
surplus asset classes across all the major industries.
GoIndustry DoveBid recently became part of
AllSurplus, an intuitive, state-of-the-art website that
aggregates all assets of the Liquidity Services
marketplaces and furthermore allows for managed
or self-direct sales processes. With over $8 billion in
completed transactions, AllSurplus has over 3,6
million registered buyers and 14 000 sellers across
the globe.
KIM FACLIER
After spending just minutes in her company, the slogan
“Options Unlimited” comes to mind as an apt label for her
ingenious skill set.
Faclier began her career in property in her early 20’s, but this
only after she’d spent a couple of years playing professional
squash on the circuit in Europe and the UK. Her initial dreams
of becoming a dentist were tempered by a reluctance to have
her travel experiences diluted and to be chair-bound in a single
location, so she decided instead to become a dental hygienist,
qualifying from Stellenbosch University with distinction, and
thereafter weighed up her options of joining her uncle in the
movie business.
This entrepreneurial and charismatic industry leader has
the unique ability to marry deals with consummate skill and
creative insight. A master of professional match-making, her
reputation as a global connector has left its’ indelible mark on a
slew of global business outcomes as she walks with commercial
giants with the relaxed ease and serene confidence that are a
playbook for women around the world running multinational
corporate ventures.
Whether arranging exquisite Cape Town experiences
for international contacts or crafting a union between a
tech disruptor and a leading global search engine, Faclier
tackles every challenge with “Energizer-Bunny” energy and
astonishing aplomb.
“Working with various people has taught me two very
crucial skills in the property business, intuitiveness and
analytical decision-making. As a result, I have been practising
effective strategies and skilful negotiations in the industry,
which continues to work well for me. Operating with integrity
and negotiating formidable deals entails deploying a perfect
blend of art & science, I pride myself having played in the sweet
spot between the two for many years.”
In 2015, Liquidity Services’ GoIndustry DoveBid Property
Auction Marketplace under her leadership received the “Fast
Growth Award” from South Africa’s National Business Awards.
“By utilizing the company’s proprietary, in-house online
auction technology, our team successfully opened up access
for many property transactions to a highly targeted and
relevant audiences of international bidders. This competitive
process not only increased asset sale prices, but also delivered
huge returns on investment for our clients comprising of large
corporate companies, government, and parastatals.”
A woman in leadership
In the world we live in, particularly on the African continent,
there are glaring institutionalized hinderances which have
historically stunted the social development and economic
growth of the continent, most markedly obvious in the
handicapped traditional and diminished role of women
in leadership. Women like Faclier are actively and rapidly
dismantling the myth of women’s primary place being the
home and following obediently in the footsteps of their male
counterparts.
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 5
 MASTER INVESTOR

“Extraordinary leaders know that their From New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, to
German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, Covid-19 continues to
focus needs to be on shine a light on women, paving the way for new thinking in
global leadership.
• Challenging the Process
• Inspiring A Shared Vision
• Modelling the Way
• Encouraging Others to Act amazing day with an informal cappuccino & dream dialogue
• Celebrating the Heart overlooking Camps Bay beach in Cape Town with Warren

Federer, who have spectacularly morphed their personal,

“Extraordinary leaders call their people extraordinary! developmental, commercial and project successes into

of humanity in the ecosystem of our planet.

environment where their teams can succeed and they don’t
take responsibility or credit for their successes or importantly,
beat themselves up when they fail. They hold themselves
accountable all the time, not just some of the time. They know
that inconsistency in their behaviour and their actions create
doubt. Integrity, transparency, authenticity, and trust are
always top priorities!” She maintains that anything is possible
if people are honest, loving, passionate, committed and
determined.
Inspirational building blocks
of my success
“My beautiful & loving parents are my biggest role models
& inspiration, that goes without saying!”
Obama, Kamala Harris & Melinda Gates.
our respective backgrounds and experiences, there is one
common thread we share about life, that it has no formula.”
“Lifelong learning is an ultra-marathon, not a sprint! Pace
yourself and take time while energized to smell the roses
along the way. My own ultra-marathon has included the
support of MANY extraordinary people, connections and
commercial couplings on the road towards success that have
made my race in life so enjoyable”
“In summary, I believe in sharing the credit when the
contract arrives, celebrating outrageously and spoiling myself
regularly with abandon and relish. Life is for living and being
in the moment. Grab every opportunity that crosses your path
with power and passion, as most things only happen once!”

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
October 2010:
Winner - Five Star SA Woman Award
Awarded by Women’s Property Network

June 2011 – present:

Managing Director - Property for GoIndustry Dovebid SA (Pty)
Limited

2012 – present:
Member - YPO one of the most prestigious organisations with
over 29000 members from 130 counrties

August 2012:
Winner - SA’ s Most Influential Woman in Business & Goverment
Awarded by CEO Magazine

2015:
Winner - Fast Growth Award
To Liquidity Services’ GoIndustry DoveBid
Property Auction Marketplace
Awarded by SA’s National Business Awards

6 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine

 COVER STORY WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

The future is female

Empowering women in the property sector
SIDIMA MFEKU

Women’s month presents the perfect

opportunity to highlight female
property pioneers. These successful
entrepreneurs, agents & innovators

aspiring minorities who want to be

successful in a historically white-male
driven industry.

8 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 9
 COVER STORY
Empowering women in the property
Industry
For many women, the business world is a daunting one
to approach. According to CEO of Fitzanne Estates, Pearl
the industry has endless list of rules and legislation, hoops
to jump through, and updates to follow. What cannot be
disputed though is that the sector is also a tremendously
rewarding path, when taken smartly. Still, working harder
and smarter is oftentimes exactly what is needed to come
out on top. Scheltema says, “doing business like a woman is
precisely what makes you so powerful.”
expect to speak to a man when looking for the boss. They
would ask me to take minutes of a meeting or thought I
was the secutary before realising I actually knew what I was
talking about.That attitude has started to change, with men
realising that women are a force to be reckoned with and
that we should be taken seriously,” she says.
It goes without saying that businesses in the real estate
sector should start normalising the support of women in
the fore runners of the real estate businesses, especially
because they are now the most property buying gender in
the history of the real estate and property.
TPN credit bureau co-founder and managing director,
Michelle Dickens says men and women in the property
sector are almost equal in terms of property buying since
around the 2000s.
“Looking at property ownership and precisely women
in property, we have observed the trend of the number of
women buying property in South Africa in comparison to
that of men from the 1970s.”
“I wanted to know how many women buy property in the
1970s decade, and from only 27% in the 1970s, and between
2010 and 2019 we just peeped over 50%. Meaning 50% of
properties purchased in South Africa are bought by women.
Whether this is for home ownership, or even family holiday
homes, it is all equally important and fantastic,” she says.
According to Dickens women are the largest group of
property buyers in South Africa today. However, BBM Law
director Marina Constas, says this is despite the fact that
they are still underrepresented, largely unacknowledged
and unheard in the property sphere.
“Women may be snapping up properties, but they are
still being left out in the cold when it comes to holding
leadership positions and having their voices heard in the
from tenants and owners to trustees, women are ignored
and even bullied in what is still a largely male-dominated
industry,” Constas, says.
10 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
The way to go
and giving courage to the vulnerable and not so motivated
women either in property or in other sectors. Women can
jointly seat together and advise each other about the ins
and outs of each and every other sector and create safe
spaces for women where innovation and motivation are the
order of proceedings.
For some, lack of knowledge is the only setback and
inconvenience in their journey, particularly in the property
sector. This is something that Pearl Scheltema motivates
fellow women in the real estate industry to focus on and
share among fellow beginners in the property sector.
“Lack of knowledge is the biggest challenge for women
in our sector. I place a big premium on training, and I think
for all the ladies out there who act as scheme executives and
doing the management work should all be knowledgeable,
to be ready,” says Scheltema.
what we usually see and read, especially pertaining to the
real estate sector and about the ins and outs of this sector.
For instance, sectional title schemes are governed by the
sectional titles act, information of which is available online
for sectional title scheme managers and every other person
in this realm.
“So, if you are about to enter the scheme as a trustee, it is
important that you be as knowledgeable as possible about
this business. Scheme legislation is readily available, there
are also many other places or cyber places where you can
get training online. Together with the National Association
of Management Agents, Paddox and the Estate Agents
adds.
Build your strengths
Owning your strength and understanding your
foundation in this sector is equivalent to amazing rewards
for your business. It means you understand where the
business is going and to which direction to steer. The
It is through various avenues within the real estate sector
that medical doctor, single mother and real estate investor,
Dr Miranda Moloto found direction towards reaching the
“I come from a background of medicine, where hard work
or in hospital does not translate to the wealth, money and/
feet for not so much of a reward as compared to what the
Moloto adds that now that she is working from the
comfort of her own home as a player in the property sector
working online, she has freed up most of her time. “I’m
often sitting in my study room and I’m able to work on
numerous things like viewing property online, buying
property, hosting my podcasts with no pressure at all. That
has been amazing for me,” she adds.
“By venturing into this business, I want to encourage
every medical doctor, particularly single mothers who
work more than 37 hours at the hospital and are still
expected to be a mummy to their children, sister to their
siblings, etc. That it’s not too late to get the wealth you
want.”
The need to have conversations about women
empowerment is not brought about by non-existent
experiences or hallucinations over gender inequalities
and/or injustices. Something somewhere is happening,
if it does not do the damage now, it might be about to,
or might be inciting one. And yes, it must have happened
that a woman has been made to feel unworthy of being
to stand and claim your ground. Do It Now!
According to Bronwyn Corbett, CEO of GRIT, it takes
a single meeting where there is one woman with more
than 10 men to realise the status quo. “In the commercial
and I would think to myself ‘where have the women gone?’
and these are interesting AHA! moments,” says Corbett.
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
Corbett shared a story of how a Mauritius business man
didn’t know to what role she would be best put in, because
the way in which women deal with such encounters should
be very profound and not in any way change their focus.
“I think the big thing for us as women is not to take these
encounters too seriously, they exist and we are about to
come across a lot of them more often than not, and we need
to keep our focus,” she says.
Corbett further says in underdeveloped or developing
countries, especially in the African continent, these behaviours
should be expected. “In these countries there are instances
where they haven’t experienced women in property/business,
so the comments and not knowing how to deal with you as a
woman comes from not understanding that they are dealing
with someone that is in business,” she says.
Be bold & win
“If you can use your femininity, your women compassion
traits, the love that we feel and you can frame that with
being free and hard, men don’t know what to do with it.
One minute you tell them how amazing they are and the
next you getting the best deal you’ve ever got, it sounds
manipulative but it actually isn’t,” says Corbett.
Corbett concludes by saying that women have the power
to win in business. She says the power to run businesses
lies not in the idea of being strong, manly, and throwing
testosterone around - it is not limited to that. Give it love,
“We can bring the edge of a woman into the meetings,
where we can bring out traits like listening, empathy,
compassion to win this game.”
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 11
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 TECH

Our new reality Tech soltuions to Covid restrictions “If you have a much larger camera, it means you have a

Virtual property tours & transactions With the enforcement of the lockdown restrictions,
the real estate industry has changed across the globe.
bigger sensor and ultimately you have more space to allow
the light to hit which means you are going to catch a much
nicer image than you would have on your iPad,” He said.
As a result, getting used to the idea of not attending any
SIDIMA MFEKU meetings in-person or not physically viewing a property,
has become more normalized and even expected. Why virtual tours?
• Another resource for potential buyers
tour company, VPiX 360®, Bart Wilson says since the • Less showings or “open house” for sellers
announcement of the lockdown he got the impression that
Traditionally, the •
•
Covid-proof
Greater accessibility
probably play with the dogs. Well, the world is not standing
property market has still, in fact business has boomed despite the lockdown. He
• Increasing audience size & reach
says he started getting more phone calls and emails than
been the last to digitize usual. Digital Business Cards
“It was interesting to see the whole planet working and
their operations and adapting to the immediate closure of action and business
Specialising in digital business card software
development in the real estate sector is the Meishi group,
activity, through the tech and internet,” says wilson. “Thank
to make the change you to the tech admin that were able to head the call of real
who have developed software for digital business cards, to
be used with databases, clients and contacts from virtual
estate virtual viewing. When we were asked about it, we
completely to virtual never thought twice about getting on it, including virtual
networking events.
Gone are the days of physical business cards, which are
conferencing via zoom and other virtual communication
services. However, various platforms,” Wilson said.
thrown in the bin as soon as you turn your back. Using
digital business cards means you not only engage with new

players in the property Virtual Tour Cameras

contacts, but help to keep existing contacts within your
business environment with the use of links & chat bots.

business recently shared “Virtual tour cameras are just tip of the iceberg of what
we do. We run a real estate family of software for real estate
“We help companies with their tours, by attaching their
virtual tour links on their cards and software. We also do

what they have contributed in agents, brokers, property owners around the world. Ours
is to paint a picture of how these industry players can take
digital business card, we do business reports, and analytics

advancing growth and innovation advantage of camera’s they have.”

At VPiX, they are Camera agnostic, selling 360 virtual
about how your software has been doing and how people
have been receiving it,” says Analytiica’s Bruce Curnick.

in the industry in a Let’s Talk
Property Webinar, ‘How Proptech is
rapidly changing the property world’.
tour cameras, makes software that lets estate agents create
virtual tours. They train agents on how to use their devices
and ultimately play with others in the industry. “We plug
and play with the world real estate players.”
Like your physical property, any online presence attached
to your name is your property and your responsibility.
It is therefore important that you take full charge of your
property, gathering every bit of information about it, good
or bad.
Like every other internet connection, virtual tours are
bound to lose signal or just not work as smoothly as you
would have loved and preferred them to. Well, Wilson says
it is very important to know “how real estate friendly is
your property technology.”
Use advanced devices
The use of cellphone cameras might be the
bigger issue here. The camera sensor (CCD)
on your mobile phone or 1-shot camera is
teensy/tiny to capture a lot of pixels, as a
result the pictures of the shots are not as
great as preferred.
“Advanced 360 pro cameras are the
way to go with their big sensors. The
cost is more, but it’s for the best.
Your tours will look so much
better,” says Wilson.
Virtual Property Transactions
Quoin Online has developed an online property platform
which handles each stage of the transaction process, from
industry with boosting the rental and sales markets and
creating better accessibility in the market. Virtual tours and
transactions aren’t only for use during Covid restrictions, it
helps you to cast a wider net when engaging with agents,
buyers & sellers from across the globe.
unprecedented convenience, but also addresses problems
around mobility, accessibility and the ability to transact
without a “middle man” and gives potential buyers and
tenants direct access to sellers and landlords.
around are brought to one system where people can view
it, via virtual tours. All stages of the property transaction can
be completed online, from due-dilligence to accepting an
takes understanding of the internet and playing around
with your tech devices. Here, everyone can be an expert.
SOURCE Quoin Online, Meishi, VPiX 360

14 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 15
28 26 24

AUG/SEP 2020 17
 GETTING STARTED
Financial independence
& physical security
Home security tips for
single women are buying
houses at a much higher rate
than single men, and in some
regions at an even higher rate
than couples, as they seek
security. However, women
have much more particular
security requirements when
choosing a home.
18 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
“W
e see many young career women buying now
as they discover that it can often be more
generally buying to provide a home for themselves and
children or grandchildren, sometimes after a divorce or
the death of a spouse,” says Gerhard Kotzé, MD of the
RealNet estate agency
Last year, property research group Lightstone reported
that 72 000 single women had bought a home in SA,
compared to 65 000 couples and 62 000 single men.
The highest value properties (average price R1,2m) were
bought by couples, followed by single men (average
R1m) and then single women (average R800 000). The
percentage of women buying for less than R250 000.
“And although the statistics also show that single
women are generally also buying cheaper homes than
either couples or single men, in most cases that does
not mean that they are settling for run-down homes or
high-crime areas. What it does mean is that women are
and townhouses in secure complexes over freehold
homes.”
Tips for single women currently hunting for the perfect
Check out the area
everyone is home from work. You should also try to get
feedback from current residents about how they feel
about living there. Facebook and other social media can
be a great way to ask for these opinions.”
Get the local crime stats
You can get stats from the local community policing
forum (CPF), an active local security company or a
reputable local estate agent. “There are no completely
crime-free areas but you need to look at what type of
criminal activity is occurring. And don’t try to judge the
area from the regional crime stats online. These are often
out of date and in any case cover a very broad area.”
Avoid mixed-use suburbs
While modern “live-play-work” precincts are attractive,
says Kotzé, you should probably avoid suburbs that have
become “mixed-use” over time, unless they have a co-
ordinated community security system. “Studies show that
crime tends to be higher in areas where many homes have
been converted to business use or demolished to make
which non-residents are just hanging around and which are
actually there on business.”
Good lighting
If you do want a freehold home with a garden, choose
one in a street with good lighting. “We all know about the
current problems with intermittent streetlights, but if your
street is generally well-lit, it will obviously make it harder for
criminals to hang around your gate or gain entrance to your
yard without being seen. And the same applies to homes
that are themselves well-lit at night and not hidden away
behind lots of trees or shrubbery.”
Examine Safety Features
You should also examine the safety features of any home
you are viewing, including apartments and townhouses.
security lights, security gates, alarm systems and secure
perimeter fencing can of course be installed after purchase,
but the costs can quickly mount up and you will need
purchase – and make sure everything is installed before you
take occupation. Alternatively, let your estate agent know
that you only want to view very secure properties.”
Many single women prefer homes above the second
for an attached garage with a door leading directly into the
interior. “This limits your potential exposure at a vulnerable
point like a front door, while remote-controlled gates and
garage doors also obviate the need to get out of your car to
gain entry to your property.
home join the First-Time Virtual Masterclass on Wednesday
14 October 2020.
SOURCE RealNet & Lighstone
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 45
 LEGAL
POPIA Unpacked
During lockdown online buying
has become the way to do and
view things, but before you
press send on that online form,
your right to the protection of
how your ‘details’ are collected
and processed is something you
should be aware of. As should
the responsible parties who
they contravene the provisions
of the Protection of Personal
Information Act.
20 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
Y
property site, scrolling back to that house on the corner
reductions in the repo rate and you click on the standard
information form which is a pre-requisite to you being able to
receive a link to a virtual viewing, which admittedly you need
thought, you complete the usual ‘what is your name, surname,
cellular number and email’ press send, and boom the link is
sent to you and you sit back, watch and pause and watch
But in the coming weeks advertisements keep on coming,
and coming and coming, each one seemingly more personal
than the last - emails addressed to you personally suggesting
big data is being commercialised, but as the emails keep
coming you soon became annoyed by the fact that you never
‘opted-in’ to receive the emails and the ‘personal touches’ are
now starting to make you feel somewhat uncomfortable since
they are coming from an estate agent whom you have never
even spoken to.
Stephan Haynes, from Gillan & Velhuizen Inc expands on
why the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) is very
important for real estate players, and property buyers and
Real estate players
You are also encouraged to include compliancy clauses in
your service agreements with third-party vendors and should
review all such existing contracts to ensure compliance.
For an entity to become compliant with POPIA the following
1. Educate Executives on the “do’s and do not’s” of POPIA;
2.
3. Review and update your Policies (Privacy Policy; Data
Protection Policy, Personal Information Sharing Policy,
BYOD; Password Policy; Document Retention Policy, Etc.);
4. Review and update Operations Contracts;
5. Review and revise internal policies and practices.
Furthermore, the Act states that personal information may
only be processed if:
• “processing is necessary to carry out actions for the
conclusion or performance of a contract to which the data
subject is party;
• protects the legitimate interests of the data subject;
processing complies with for the proper performance of a
public law duty by a public body;
• for pursuing the legitimate interests of the responsible party
or of a third party to whom the information is supplied”.
Bottom line, adds Haynes, is that the days of routinely
collecting and then storing personal information are over
and responsible parties must conform to the practice of
less is more by only collecting personal data for justified
purposes.
Prospective buyers, sellers, tenants, landlords
Few prospective buyers are aware of their rights in
terms of how personal information may be used; that
they are entitled to the option to ‘opt-in’ and/or bar, in
this instance the estate agency, from using your personal
information.
It is worthwhile noting that personal information
is a very broad term. POPIA lists some examples,
which include demographic information, personal
records, biometrics, personal opinions and identifying
personal information” as comprising of personal
information pertaining to religious beliefs, race or ethnic
origin, trade union membership, political persuasion,
health or sex or biometric information and criminal
“Most importantly, the processing of special personal
information is prohibited without the consent of
the data subject and may only be processed if the
information must be obtained directly from you unless
the information contained is derived from a public record
or has deliberately been made public by yourself. For this
reason, Haynes warns data subjects to carefully consider
the personal information you publish online as you may
unwittingly be making your personal information ‘fair
game’.
Roll on Level 1 where you can go back to strolling
through a show house on a wintery Sunday afternoon
with your wife, and choose whether or not to leave your
contact details - but given the current circumstances we
find ourselves in, at least you can be more informed as to
your privacy rights before you click on that next online
form.
If you suspect your personal information is being
abused, you would be wise to seek advice either from
an attorney or report any mis-use of your details to the
on becoming compliant with the regulations it would be
wise to get legal advice or visit POPI Compliance.
SOURCE Gillan & Veldhuizen Inc
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 21
 INVESTOR INTELLIGENCE

Unlocking relief the loan and does not extend it beyond that period or you
will just attract more interest,” says Coetzee.

within your bond

Taking out a further home loan
“Bear in mind that this option attracts additional costs,”
Coetzee warns. “If included in the loan amount, these can
attract interest over the term of the loan, depending on
whether the original bond was approved before or after
the NCA.”

Your home loan provider will charge an initiation cost of

the answer to easing approximately R6 500, and registration with attorneys will
attract additional costs. A further advance or further home

uncertain times currently being experienced due to the pandemic.

Coetzee suggests exploring the option of a much shorter

PAUL STEVENS & CARL COETZEE term (e.g. 5 years) so as to attract less interest. “Where

Restructuring your current home loan

There could be a renegotiation of the interest rate and an

extension of the original term. A longer term could mean
lower repayments but more interest, says Coetzee.

“Switching” your institution

Moving your bond from one institution to another
attracts considerable costs. This should be seen as your last

There is an initiation fee of around R6 500 and

cancellation fees of, on average, R4 000. There’s also an
entirely new application and credit vetting process to go
through. “Before making this decision, weigh the possible
reduction in interest over the period of the loan against

“If there are costs attached to the choice you make,

remember that adding these to the loan total can attract
plenty of additional interest over the lifetime of the bond,”

“T
he current economic climate is challenging for all
of us. Many have lost their jobs, have had salary
reductions, or are unable to trade as they could in
the past,” says Paul Stevens, CEO of Just Property.
While Stevens advises against dipping into your bond
eases, leveraging a home loan can be a solution for those
under severe strain. “But the decision needs to be carefully
considered,” he warns.
various options available:
A payment “holiday” on your home
loan repayments
If you need access to credit in the short term, this will help
you avoid going into arrears and tarnishing your payment
record. “Such relief will still attract interest and compound
interest over the remaining term of the bond,” warns
Coetzee. “It will also extend the repayment period of your
home loan beyond the original term of the loan.”
If you want to go this route, he advises you to take
advantage of low interest rates and pay extra into the bond
Taking money out of your Access Bond
as we’re currently in a low interest rate cycle. It’s the best
option if you need assistance creating liquidity during these
unprecedented times, says Coetzee.
Unlike the payment relief option, additional interest will
only attach should you withdraw these funds, and there are
no additional costs.
Repayments are adjusted monthly in line with the funds
utilized over the remaining term of the bond.
Getting a re-advance
Like an access bond, this allows you to withdraw from
original registered home loan amount and the outstanding
balance.
In this case, says Coetzee, a formal application needs to
be completed, giving all income and expenditure details;
this will be subject to normal credit vetting. Generally, the
interest rate originally negotiated remains in play, but no
registration is required.
the new calculation is taken over the remaining period of
lending institution to make a careful assessment and to
discuss terms before deciding on the best course.”
If, after careful consideration, you decide that leveraging
your bond is not the option for you, then selling your
property, especially if you have equity in it, may be the
right thing to do. It’s a buyers-market in much of the
country, so if your property is priced right, it should sell.
“Agents are able to provide you with an objective, data-
driven valuation of your property. Honest, no-strings-
attached advice can provide a valuable tool when making
these big decisions; place your trust in property experts,
rather than hearsay from laypeople”, Stevens concludes.
SOURCE Just Property

24 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 25
 FINDING

The rise of second-tier

cities in South Africa N Quality of life
o longer is a move out of Cape Town or Johannesburg
to these new boom towns considered “trading
down”. Rather, it represents a bold and progressive The COVID-19 pandemic has also served to emphasise
decision to seek a better quality of life, often in more the fundamental importance of location, accessibility and
scenic locations where the price tags on homes are less convenience when it comes to property investment, a
likely to break the bank. further factor behind the increased interest in such cities.

Far from posing a threat to the longevity of the country’s The desirability of the Westbrook mega-estate was

tier cities, is a positive indicator of balanced and integrated exercising within an enclosed, access-controlled, fully
regional development.

Rising national incomes have brought home ownership “Now, more than ever, professional proactive property
within reach for a new generation, but the reality is that city management where safety, security, cleanliness and
real estate often remains a stretch too far. Owning a home in
a second-tier city – either as a permanent move or as a starter both homeowners and tenants who are searching for
home – is simply a more appealing option.
As second-tier cities Executive chief economist at Alexander Forbes Investments
Oosthuizen, managing director of Westbrook Property

become increasingly Lesiba Mothata is on record as saying he believes the full

potential of second-tier cities in South Africa has yet to be
on trend for South harnessed, despite the fact that these could be the perfect
catalyst for much-needed economic growth.
Africans on the Considering the COVID-19 reality, property experts
move, property suggest that second-tier cities, along with other attractive
low-density options, will grow in popularity thanks to the fact
developers are of lifestyle that lends itself more easily to physical distancing.
responding with
The suburbs re-emerge
homes to match the
Mothata believes smaller pockets of economic and
industrial growth are waiting to be uncovered in second
Smaller pockets of economic tier towns like Kimberley, Bloemfontein, Polokwane and
Port Elizabeth. In Gauteng, burgeoning areas like Midrand
and industrial growth are will become even more popular, while the Winelands and
False Bay in greater Cape Town are also garnering great
waiting to be uncovered in interest.
Living through a national lockdown, buyers are drawn
plenty of space, he suggests. “Added value comes from
having communal gardens and parks, along with sporting
facilities. And, on top of that, people can walk or ride their
bikes or scooters without having the expense of owning
and maintaining a car.”
Remote working
Oosthuizen points out that the shift to remote working,
precipitated by COVID-19, has given South Africans
yet another reason to consider a move to second-tier,
cheaper cities, where they can enjoy a better quality of
anywhere, it makes more sense to live somewhere that’s
less expensive. A lower cost of living makes it easier for
newcomers to enjoy the urban experience in this next tier
of cities, whether they’re renters or homeowners.”

second tier towns like Kimberley,
Bloemfontein, Polokwane and Port
Elizabeth.
Elizabeth, Plettenberg Bay and George are also raising the
This is where secure lifestyle estates like Westbrook
come to the fore, representing an unparalleled value
they evolve, these multi-generational estates found in
asked include why Port Elizabeth shouldn’t be transformed
into southern Africa’s car manufacturing powerhouse, for
second-tier cities across South Africa are embracing

example, or why Nelspruit can’t be developed into a retail

and agricultural export hub that would earn it the status million upwards. Whether for a job or for a change in

themselves spoilt for choice.

The Amdec Group is currently building a connected
neighbourhood in Port Elizabeth. The second of nine
villages - River Dale which is part of the 128-hectare
Westbrook development, is in direct response to the spike
SOURCE Amdec Group
in demand for housing in this second-tier city.

26 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 27
 INVESTOR INTELLIGENCE
A
Tenants feel
the national lockdown means that hot button topics
ignored. Industry experts are predicting a drastic rise in
evictions in the near future, as tenants struggle to continue
the pinch
to keep up with rental payments.
Property entrepreneur and Managing Director of Only
Realty, Grant Smee believes that a few key factors are
currently at play within the residential property industry.
“We’re seeing an excess amount of vacant properties.
Tenants have either: been evicted; had to move out due to
Unpacking the lack of tourism. This is particularly evident in Cape Town, our
major tourism hub”.
GRANT SMEE “We’re seeing an excess
amount of vacant properties.
Tenants have either: been
evicted; had to move out due
While evictions have been an ethical and legal ‘grey area’
during lockdown, Smee says that eviction lawyers are now
be executed should the judge deem it just and equitable,”
notes Smee.
The topic of eviction remains ever contentious and is
placing immense pressure on both landlords and tenants.
However, Smee urges landlords not to get ‘desperate’ when
“Prior to lockdown, we saw supply outweighing demand
is more important than ever before and I would strongly
appeal to landlords to do their due diligence before
selecting a tenant for their property”.
Smee says that there is a sign of hope in these trying
times: A prolonged buyers’ market has seen a spike in
residential property sales since June. “Another repo rate cut
combined with this sudden spike in sales has some agents
and prospective sellers rather excited. With this in mind, it
is important to take a conservative, calculated and logical
approach when purchasing or selling a property”.
Among many other sobering realisations, COVID-19
has highlighted the need to live within our means. “Many
South Africans live from day-to-day with no savings or credit
facilities in place. The pandemic has certainly taught us to
prepare for situations out of our control”.
28 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
So, how much of one’s salary should be allocated to rent
or bond repayments each month? “The golden rule is that
you should spend a maximum of 30% on housing each
month. Why this amount? By limiting your expenditure
to 30% of your net salary you are ensuring that you have
it is important to take a
conservative, calculated
and logical approach when
purchasing or selling a
property”.
enough budget to pay for other living expenses including
transport, food, education and other essentials, as well as
potential savings or reserves for unforeseen circumstances
that may arise”.
-
nues
In terms of reducing spend on housing each month,
Smee suggests downscaling and making sure that you have
wish to do so. “Consider the current economic environment
environment – perhaps you are paying for space or
are not making use of but are paying a premium for.”
“Shop around in your area to compare prices. Other ideas
might be to rent out unused space in your property, for
example a garage to someone looking for additional storage
space or even rent a bedroom out to someone that will then
are renting, be sure to get permission in writing from your
landlord prior to subletting any portion of the property” he
concludes.
SOURCE Only Realty
Grant Smee has a solid
through tertiary studies in
Finance and Accounting and
experience gained in the
institutions. He is the Managing
Director of Only Realty National
and Founder and Director of
EPiC South Africa.
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 29
31
 OFFICE SERIES PART 2
As South Africa relaxes into alert level 2 of the national
Covid-19 lockdown, the further relaxing of restrictions and
Back to work as (un)usual reopening of the economy means more businesses will
be resuming operation and more employees returning to
work. While it may feel like life is getting back to “normal”,
businesses will have to ensure they are ready for the new
realities that come with operating during a pandemic.
F
or companies like Quoin Online, whose business model has
always been based on conducting property transactions
in the virtual sphere, this means kicking their operations
into top gear rather than having to reinvent themselves.
When lockdown was at its most restrictive, the challenge
for companies was how to manage a workforce operating
remotely while maintaining productivity and ensuring the
to return to the workplace or continue working remotely.
faced with the additional challenge of how to ensure they will
be bringing back workers to a safe environment where they
are able to practise physical distancing and other required
health protocols. For these companies, the physical distancing
requirement may necessitate having more space available –
but possibly for shorter periods of time, particularly if they are
The sad reality for some businesses is that they will close,
space, both of which will result in a number of new vacancies
coming on to the market.
Flexibility and creativity required
Whatever the scenario, the “new normal” and move toward
a post-Covid working environment is going to require a fair
For landlords, possible solutions to the new challenges will
with small common areas, as a cost-saving option for potential
tenants. And as the use of technology enabled remote
working, thereby making it possible for many companies to
continue operating throughout lockdown, many solutions to
the new challenges being faced as business reopen, may also
be found in tech.
In the property industry, in particular, technology can
and will be an important factor in shaping its future, and the
early adoption thereof will not only enhance sustainability
to exercise its unique selling proposition, having focused
transactions in a virtual space long before Covid-19 forced
businesses to do so.
Property industry innovators
When Quoin Online was launched, founders Wayne van der
Vent and Karen Miller’s focus was on the transactional element
the only platform through which every part of the property
32 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
to transact online and giving brokers, potential buyers and
tenants direct access to sellers and landlords.
Quoin’s platform gives clients the option of comparing
multiple properties on their comparator site and taking a
virtual tour of them. Rather than acting as a broker, through its
comparator site, Quoin Online enables tenants to directly view
all landlord vacancy listings within an area, price range, or size.
to make a correct and informed decision.
Quoin Online also gives clients direct online access to
information and documentation, and allows clients to transact
directly with all sellers or landlords and draw up the required
documentation within the portal by populating existing
and provides accurate information, eliminating manual
intervention and error.
saving.
• Live Data is aggregated from the landlord’s property
management system, eliminating the need to manually
prepare, update and disseminate monthly vacancy
schedules to brokers.
• Quoin’s platform includes direct integration to online
marketing channels, while YouTube videos and virtual tours
• All relevant documentation is available online, eliminating
the need for manual scanning and uploading of documents,
and signatures can be automated.
•
Cost saving
• The marketing feed to Property24 and other online
commercial channels results in direct enquiries to the
landlord.
•
documentation and automates credit checks from the credit
bureau, eliminating the need for an administrator.
• The system allows all vacancies to be managed by the
landlord, who is able to administer multiple vacancies
seamlessly.
SOURCE Quoin Online
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 33
 OFFICE SERIES PART 2
As South Africa relaxes into alert level 2 of the national
Covid-19 lockdown, the further relaxing of restrictions and
Back toQUOIN
work as (un)usual reopening of the economy means more businesses will
be resuming operation and more employees returning to
ONLINE
FTDF/T\ea\aeD_TaŠA6/T\;FU
work. While it may feel like life is getting back to “normal”,
businesses will have to ensure they are ready for the new
realities that come with operating during a pandemic.

F
or companies like Quoin Online, whose business model has
always been based on conducting property transactions
in the virtual sphere, this means kicking their operations
into top gear rather than having to reinvent themselves.
When lockdown was at its most restrictive, the challenge
for companies was how to manage a workforce operating
remotely while maintaining productivity and ensuring the
to return to the workplace or continue working remotely.
to transact online and giving brokers, potential buyers and
tenants direct access to sellers and landlords.
Quoin’s platform gives clients the option of comparing
multiple properties on their comparator site and taking a
virtual tour of them. Rather than acting as a broker, through its
comparator site, Quoin Online enables tenants to directly view
all landlord vacancy listings within an area, price range, or size.

faced with the additional challenge of how to ensure they will
be bringing back workers to a safe environment where they
are able to practise physical distancing and other required
health protocols. For these companies, the physical distancing
requirement may necessitate having more space available –
but possibly for shorter periods of time, particularly if they are
The sad reality for some businesses is that they will close,
to make a correct and informed decision.
Quoin Online also gives clients direct online access to
information and documentation, and allows clients to transact
directly with all sellers or landlords and draw up the required
documentation within the portal by populating existing
and provides accurate information, eliminating manual
intervention and error.

space, both of which will result in a number of new vacancies

coming on to the market. saving.

Flexibility and creativity required

Whatever the scenario, the “new normal” and move toward
a post-Covid working environment is going to require a fair
For landlords, possible solutions to the new challenges will
with small common areas, as a cost-saving option for potential
tenants. And as the use of technology enabled remote
working, thereby making it possible for many companies to
continue operating throughout lockdown, many solutions to
the new challenges being faced as business reopen, may also
be found in tech.
In the property industry, in particular, technology can
and will be an important factor in shaping its future, and the
early adoption thereof will not only enhance sustainability
to exercise its unique selling proposition, having focused
transactions in a virtual space long before Covid-19 forced
businesses to do so.
Property industry innovators
When Quoin Online was launched, founders Wayne van der
Vent and Karen Miller’s focus was on the transactional element
the only platform through which every part of the property
• Live Data is aggregated from the landlord’s property
management system, eliminating the need to manually
prepare, update and disseminate monthly vacancy
schedules to brokers.
• Quoin’s platform includes direct integration to online
marketing channels, while YouTube videos and virtual tours
• All relevant documentation is available online, eliminating
the need for manual scanning and uploading of documents,
and signatures can be automated.
•
Cost saving
• The marketing feed to Property24 and other online
commercial channels results in direct enquiries to the
landlord.
•
documentation and automates credit checks from the credit
bureau, eliminating the need for an administrator.
• The system allows all vacancies to be managed by the
landlord, who is able to administer multiple vacancies
seamlessly.
SOURCE Quoin Online

32 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 33
 OFFICE
LEGAL SERIES PART 2
As South Africa relaxes into alert level 2 of the national
Covid-19 lockdown, the further relaxing of restrictions and
Back toQUOIN
Better work as (un)usual
protection reopening of the economy means more businesses will
will establish a price escalation entitlement. The ability to to be considered includes costs to provide access facilities
be resuming operation and moreto remote employees returning to with no
ONLINE
workers, security costs during periods

in a pandemic
materials should be discussed. Shipping and delivery routes access to site and cover for possible loss or delays incurred
work.
from While
the respective it may
suppliers must befeel liketo life
established deal is getting
in the supply chain.back to “normal”,
FTDF/T\ea\aeD_TaŠA6/T\;FU with possible border restrictions.
businesses will have to ensure they are ready for the new
5 Force majeure
realities
Given that thethat
presencecome
and impactswith operating
of Covid-19
7 Termination

during
are no that there
of the contract
The only certainty that has come with Covid-19 is
a pandemic.
will continue to be uncertainty, which makes
longer unforeseen, it is important to carefully review and it likely that parties may need to terminate the contract.

F
The conditions for termination should be clearly set out,
construction contracts or companies
event. The detail in
formalways
like
beendobased
contracts
Quoin
the Online,
wording
not expressly
whose business
is crucial,
on conducting
as somemodel
property
stipulate
has
standard
“virus”,transactions
“epidemic”
including notice requirements and the responsibilities and
procedures each party should undertake.
in the virtual
or “pandemic. sphere,
” Also this means
important to bearkicking
in mindtheir operations
is that claims to transact online and giving brokers, potential buyers and
into topthis
under gear rather
clause than having
generally allowtofor
reinvent themselves.but no
time extensions, tenants
parties direct
must access
considerto sellers andrisk
possible landlords.
areas, carefully review
When lockdown
additional was at its most restrictive, the challenge
related costs. theQuoin’s platform
provisions of thegives clients
contract andthe option
agree of comparing
to clear, balanced
Before Covid-19 became a global reality, few could have for companies was how to manage a workforce operating multiple
duties and properties on their “This
responsibilities. comparator
is whatsite and taking
makes projectsa

6
remotely whiletomaintaining
Insurance be considered productivity
for proper andcover
ensuring the
relating virtual tour of them. Rather than acting as a broker,
successful, rather than iron-clad contracts”, says Herholdt,through its
to certain unforeseen events comparator
“A site, Quoin
collaborative Online
approach and enables
team tenants to directly
mentality view
is crucial to
Parties need to consider insurance cover for loss of income all landlordthis.
achieving vacancy
” listings within an area, price range, or size.
would have on global economies. Few existing contracts to revenue,
or return to worker
the workplace or or
protection continue
workerworking remotely.
salary protection
and measures to accommodate alternative working
had appropriate provisions for the impact on contracts, faced with the additional
environments, challengefrom
such as working of how to ensure
home. Other
be bringing back workers to a safe environment where they
they will
cover
SOURCE
to MDA Attorneys
make a correct and informed decision.
Quoin Online also gives clients direct online access to
are able to practise physical distancing and other required information and documentation, and allows clients to transact
health protocols. For these companies, the physical distancing directly with all sellers or landlords and draw up the required
Covid-19 are no longer “unforseen” and contracts need to be requirement may necessitate having more space available –
but possibly for shorter periods of time, particularly if they are
documentation within the portal by populating existing

adapted accordingly. and provides accurate information, eliminating manual

intervention and error.
The sad reality for some businesses is that they will close,

space, both of which will result in a number of new vacancies

coming on to the market. saving.

M 2
DA Attorneys, specialists in construction law, point
out that the disruptions to business and operations
due to Covid-19 are no longer unanticipated, so new
contract negotiations need to take these possibilities into
account.
Barry Herholdt, senior associate at MDA Attorneys says:
“Initially, force majeure notices were being issued in line with
event. However, we now know that even with regulated levels
of lockdown, a sudden announcement can impose stricter
measures and regulations which could limit or halt access to sites
across the country. We therefore need to reinvent our thinking
when negotiating new contracts to create the right balance of
Access, mobilisation, demobilisation to and from site
Changes in lockdown levels may necessitate site
alterations, including shutting down and reopening sites.
Transport costs may rise on account of vehicle capacity
restrictions for transporting workers to and from site and
the location of the site is a key consideration as it could
give rise to time implications. Cross-border and inter-
provincial travel may be restricted, and regulated isolation
or quarantine periods should be considered in addition to
possible exemptions and permit requirements.
3 Health and safety considerations
Additional safety measures are required to protect
workers and prevent the spread of the virus. A detailed
Flexibility and creativity required
Whatever the scenario, the “new normal” and move toward
a post-Covid working environment is going to require a fair
For landlords, possible solutions to the new challenges will
with small common areas, as a cost-saving option for potential
tenants. And as the use of technology enabled remote
working, thereby making it possible for many companies to
continue operating throughout lockdown, many solutions to
the new challenges being faced as business reopen, may also
be found in tech.
In the property industry, in particular, technology can
• Live Data is aggregated from the landlord’s property
management system, eliminating the need to manually
prepare, update and disseminate monthly vacancy
schedules to brokers.
• Quoin’s platform includes direct integration to online
marketing channels, while YouTube videos and virtual tours
• All relevant documentation is available online, eliminating
the need for manual scanning and uploading of documents,
•
and signatures can be automated.

risks in contracts with the understanding that Covid-19 and its
Using the most common occurrences, Herholdt has
for better protection in the context of Covid-19.
form part of every new contract, including guidelines and
protocols as well as agreement on related costs which
become part of the contract value. Examples are hand-
washing stations, sanitisers, screening equipment, personal
protection equipment, restrictions on the sharing of
tools, equipment and machinery and medical testing. The
and will be an important factor in shaping its future, and the
early adoption thereof will not only enhance sustainability Cost saving
• The marketing feed to Property24 and other online
commercial channels results in direct enquiries to the
to exercise its unique selling proposition, having focused landlord.
•
transactions in a virtual space long before Covid-19 forced documentation and automates credit checks from the credit

1 Time extensions – with or without related costs
Identifying and stipulating likely delays entitle parties to
claim extensions of time (with or without costs). Instructions
for additional works (including variations) or to suspend or halt
works completely, for instance, need to be anticipated and
required period of isolation in quarantine should a worker
test positive should also be anticipated.
4
Price adjustment, escalation in supplier costs
Given the delays caused by supply chain interruptions,
businesses to do so. bureau, eliminating the need for an administrator.
• The system allows all vacancies to be managed by the
landlord, who is able to administer multiple vacancies
Property industry innovators
seamlessly.
When Quoin Online was launched, founders Wayne van der
Vent and Karen Miller’s focus was on the transactional element
SOURCE Quoin Online
the only platform through which every part of the property

32
36 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 33
37
 RETAIL
Small centres
take the lead
as shopping
destinations
O
ver the past few years, there has been a noticeable
worldwide trend of shoppers moving toward
destination malls, as online shopping lures customers
away from the traditional mall environment. South African
trends have observed the same pattern emerging especially
with recent mall developments - like the Mall of Africa and
large refurbishments at Fourways Mall, both in Northern
Johannesburg – trying to establish themselves as market
In South Africa, however, another trend has emerged
as evidenced through work done by Navigare Securities, a
showed that small community and neighbourhood centres
that year, visits to super-regional centres by Tracker vehicles
were down 1.8% compared to the previous year, while visits
to community centres and neighbourhood centres grew
3.0% and 0.7% over the same period. Navigare believes
that this movement in 2019 was primarily due to the
economically constrained consumer not visiting large malls
to spend on luxury items, but continuing to visit closer,
smaller centres for necessities.
This shift from large to smaller malls has now been
For May 2020, visits to super-regional malls were down a
hefty 46% when compared to the previous May, while visits
to community centres were down 36% and neighbourhood
the total visits down 59.3% in April compared to April the
38 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
being either new, or old customers now frequenting them
These stores are either in small centres or standalone
stores and generally serve the lower income customer.
potentially not being able to shop at their usual places closer
to work due to being locked down at home, or not being
able to travel to their usual possibly larger malls. Another
reason could be that the lower income consumer cannot
stock up for longer periods due to their constrained budgets
and thus will still frequent local stores for necessities.
“Given the shift in patterns to smaller centres, it becomes
more important to understand when the best time of day is
to make your regular shopping trips which is why we have
created the ShopSafe app in partnership with Tracker,” says
Linda Reid, Head of Data at Lightstone.
The Shopsafe app allows the user to view the relative
understanding how busy each shopping location is, any
hour of the day,” she concludes.
SOURCE Lightstone, Navigare Securities
previous year, but again, we can see the super-regional
malls taking the brunt of the decline,” says Ruanne Foster,
To get an indication of which retailer would be most
of grocery and pharmacy chains with their Tracker-tracked
shopping centre database (over 1300 sites).
Higher-end grocery retailers (which tend to have more
sites in larger malls) were mostly impacted as visitors
stayed away from the large centres, while grocery retailers
servicing the lower-income customer as well as retailers
with more standalone stores were less impacted. In the
pharmacy sector, Dis-Chem and Clicks seem to be impacted
similarly according to insights derived from the Tracker data,
although it must be noted that there is a strong likelihood of
less frequent visits alongside increased basket sizes during
the lockdown period.
A list of the individual outlets that gain the most in terms
of having the highest proportion of their customer base
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 39
AUG/SEP 2020 41
 UNITED KINGDOM SERIES PART 4
Can expats or foreign I
the best property deals in the UK from the comfort of your
home in South Africa. In this fourth article, I will explain
nationals access UK
can mitigate this.
To build a portfolio – rather than buying just one or two
allow you to leverage your money and create income. Using
funding?
the bank’s money to grow your future investments is just
UK property.
Lenders allow you to buy distressed assets, refurbish them,
Sean Thomson, property investment six months has passed. In addition, investment lending in
the UK can be done on an interest-only basis, which means
coach at Wealth Trek, explains options a rule of thumb, you can expect market-dependant loans-
to-value of between 60-75% and interest rates in the region
of 6% (interest only). This improves as the structure you
have bought through develops a credit history over time,
how can you get skin in the game?
very tricky for an expat or foreign national. Most banks lend
to a UK resident with a UK address, so it’s not just a question
of calling a bank you’ve had a relationship with in the past
and requesting a mortgage.
foreign national. Most UK banks won’t lend to foreign
nationals unless they’re very rich, but a few will. Generally,
these individuals don’t carry British passports (although
they carry our ‘green mamba’ passports if they hail from
South Africa) and don’t have links to the UK, while expats
have British passports, which means that there are more
lending opportunities available to them than to foreign
nationals.
The value of an independent mort-
gage broker
South African investors will need a lot of help obtaining
taking mortgage broker who specialises in sourcing
the whole market. Such a broker can help you to access
lending products. This type of lending takes a company’s
credit rating into consideration. With the right broker, newly
credit rating, but this takes time.
in the UK is a must. You will be required to open a bank
42 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
account in the name of the entity you have set up. This can
therefore need to submit your business plans, details of
resident directors, meetings held and more before they will
allow you to open an account. Our FastTrack students have
had huge success setting up accounts virtually from South
Africa with the help of our UK power team, despite being
non-residents. In addition, they are not in the country to
open these accounts at present, which only highlights the
value of your power team.
Any bank that lends money to you to buy property will,
as a minimum requirement, want to collect their interest
payments via direct debit. A standard e-money or forex
account won’t work so I’d suggest that you open an account
in the name of a company and ensure that your account is
protected by means of the Financial Services Compensation
Scheme (FSCS). This safeguards customer deposits of up to
Working with the right team
will generally be referred to a bank’s international lending
typically based on an existing banking relationship and is
and the geographical location of property purchased. High-
net-worth individuals are obviously preferred.
on your own. However, with the right guidance and
mentorship, it is entirely possible to succeed. Now that the
markets have reopened in the UK, we’re happy to say that
our FastTrack students are enjoying remarkable success,
picking up attractive deals. If you’re itching to get going,
consider educating yourself about putting the right team in
place, especially as an expat or foreign national. You may be
living in South Africa, but there’s no reason why you can’t
start building your UK property portfolio today.
Next month, we will look at how to refurbish your
newly purchased property at a distance, focusing on how
to identify, work with and remunerate reliable project
managers.
Sean Thomson started
his property investment
career in June 2004 after
helps investors stop their
wealth being eroded
in South Africa, by
mentoring them to buy
UK property.
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 43
 MAURITIUS
Investing in Mauritius
there’s never been a better time
Buying a home in Mauritius remains a sound
Choisy La Réserve, the third phase of Mont Choisy
Golf & Beach Estate’s exclusive 375-hectare
development, presents such an opportunity.
S The life at Mont Choisy La Réserve
ituated in Grand Baie in the vibrant and highly coveted
north of Mauritius, Mont Choisy Golf & Beach Estate
presents myriad lifestyle opportunities for residents.
Aside from featuring homes designed by world-renowned
master planners and architects WATG in collaboration with
is home to the only golf course in the north of the island.
Residents also have access to a host of estate facilities,
including two new nature trails – a 4km trail that winds its
way around the golf course, and a second, slightly longer trail
that traverses Le Parc Nature Reserve. The trails will also be
available for horse riding, once the estate’s equestrian centre is
operational. Construction of phase 1 of the on-site Leisure Centre
has resumed after several months of stay-at-home orders due to
being used. Wellness facilities including a hammam and sauna
will be opening in 2021, as well as aquagym, yoga, gym, pilates.
Mont Choisy Golf & Beach Estate’s smart-living precinct
is also underway, with the construction of Le Boulevard
and Parkway, which will connect the estate to Grand Baie,
encouraging greater interaction with village communities
entertainment, as well as neighbouring international school
and medical facilities nearby.
44 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
Within the secure sanctuary of Mont Choisy Golf & Beach
a selection of elegant apartments, villas and penthouses.
The collection of La Réserve Apartments include two- and
three-bedroomed spaces (from 135m2 to 225m2) that face
an extensive pool area and landscaped tropical gardens. The
interiors reveal extraordinary attention to detail – from the
generously proportioned living and dining areas and ample
terrace, which can be accessed from the main bedroom,
to kitchen and bathroom areas boasting European design,
La Réserve’s Sanctuary Villas comprise four-bedroomed
way to promote privacy but maximise access to the island’s
most prestigious lagoon, parkland and tropical landscapes.
The villas feature a neutral palette of warm furnishings
and décor, enclosed terraces and a swimming pool, and
course. Owning a home at Mont Choisy La Réserve is all
about embracing sophisticated but authentic island life in
indoor living with the best of outdoor experiences.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE
On your doorstep
“If the Covid-19 lockdown taught us anything, it was that elegance with an outdoor idyll, Mont Choisy La Réserve also
that community prevails despite external circumstances,”
commented Head of Sales and Marketing, Axelle Mazery. • Being a stone’s throw away from Mauritius’s most
“We noted the sense of togetherness and camaraderie our beautiful beach and lagoon
residents enjoyed as they made use of the golf course to
exercise. Since our golf course is operational again, we’ve • Close proximity to bustling Grand Baie village
launched the running and walking trails for everyone’s • Facing the 18-hole Peter Matkovich-designed golf course
• The privacy of Mont Choisy Le Beach Club (opening soon)
residents remains a priority.”
• Eligibility for permanent residency
The health and wellbeing of residents has always been
the guiding philosophy at Mont Choisy Golf & Beach Estate. If you’ve been considering purchasing property in
The island nation has been dubbed the happiest country in Mauritius, which will allow you to obtain residency for
Africa (according to the 7th World Happiness report) due to you and your family, then Mont Choisy La Réserve is
its quality of life. And Mauritius is regarded as one of the safest an amazing option with sound investment credentials.
countries to live in Africa. This according to New World Wealth’s
Where better to reinvent your life? Under the sun,
2018 Global Wealth Migration Review. Strong ownership rights
close to nature, living your best life, while enjoying the
favour expats wishing to invest in property in Mauritius, which
is known to have one of the best administered economies
in the world. Most attractive is its permanent residency
programme, which will apply to those buying property at To secure your piece of Mauritius, please call
Mont Choisy La Réserve, situated at the heart of Grand Baie’s +230 52 50 01 02
most prestigious address, and one that is highly sought after
by discerning investors and holidaymakers.
Visit www.pamgolding.co.za/mont-choisy-la-reserve
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 45
 RETIREMENT
The young R
The concept of retirement is being turned on its head. With
a growing global population of over 50’s, and with people
now living longer than ever, the ‘retirement’ market now
encompasses a broad range of ages and lifestyles.
D
ata shows that 8% of our population is over the age
of 60, but by 2050 that number will have increased by
15%; and it looks like that number will increase almost-
exponentially in the future. This is a sector of the market that is
growing and becoming vocal about what they want out of life.
Today a retiree is no longer someone who has not simply
just retired from their traditional working life; many retirees
opt to scale back on their daily work commitments, choose to
work from home or in some cases, take early retirement for a
is constantly changing, the stigma around this phase of life is
slowly crumbling away and much of the change in perception
is being spearheaded by forward-thinking property developers
needs and wants.
Nova Stella, located in the bourgeoning Shaka’s Rock in KZN,
is designed with the over-50’s in mind. With opportunities and
facilities focused on modern active living and socialisation, Nova
positioning is also key to its desirability with Shaka’s Rock
beach and Thompson’s Bay minutes away and restaurants,
likened to Florida in the US, is the ideal retirement location in
South Africa. The warm climate and coastal positioning of Nova
Stella creates the perfect opportunity for those who love an
active, outdoor lifestyle; and even more so for those who want
to invest in an estate that welcomes pets. Creating a coastal
ambience and capitalising on KZN’s great weather, each of
the 53 apartments have a private balcony and are designed to
be airy and open-plan. The modern design is also curated to
enable those who like to travel with a lock-up-and-go home,
while gently sloped ramps and elevators provide ease-of-
access for wheelchairs and people using mobility aids.
Jock McKenzie, representative of the Developer of Nova
Stella shares, “The word ‘retirement’ does not nearly begin to
adequately describe this market and this phase of life. You can
retire at 50 or you can retire at 75 – those ages are almost a
generation apart in years- which indicates that this market is
vast, and also underserviced in many ways. We have found
there is a gap in the market when it comes to residential
in an ‘old age’ home; people want to be active, engage with
others, belong in a community and know they have wellness
amenities on their doorstep. We can no longer apply a one-
people are individuals, but there are some key lifestyle aspects
46 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
which link people into communities and that is what we have
weaved into the fabric of what Nova Stella is.“
With an understanding that a sense of independence
is invaluable, Nova Stella brings a thoughtful approach
consultation room for a healthcare practitioner (appointed by
the Body Corporate) and mobile nursing services; residents can
access these services when they need to.
McKenzie shares, “Wellness is so important, but so is early
detection and the monitoring of residents who may have
a complicated healthcare portfolio, therefore we felt it was
crucial to have access to health and wellness facilities onsite.
We did not want this to be front and centre, but rather want
residents to know that it is always there for them whenever
they need it. Perhaps you want a nurse to monitor your blood
pressure regularly – this can be done discreetly in the comfort
of your home. Maybe you need some help after an op, or
maybe you just want peace of mind knowing that there is a
doctor here when you need it.”
With a shortage of good-quality retirement estates, which
may become contracted in years to come due to demand,
Nova Stella’s introduction to the market is well-timed. A
retirement home is no longer just an investment in a bricks-
and-mortar home; it is an investment into a lifestyle and the
market shift indicates that people are actively seeking modern
retirement opportunities, if they are priced right. Nova Stella is
the epitome of stylish living for young retirees and boasts 2 and
3-bedroom apartments from R2,195 million.
“Living within your community, in other words, in and
amongst like-minded folk who live a similar lifestyle, is key
to your wellbeing, as is a real sense of independence. The
Nova Stella resident is an independent individual who still
demands a lot from life – being social, keeping active and
maintaining physical wellness. We also believe that wellness
and independence are synonymous – they bolster each other
and come as a package. We have found that those who look
after their wellness, are able to retain their independence; and
those who are independent are healthy individuals who take
their wellness and health seriously. This is the lifestyle Nova
Stella upholds and the design honours this but in a relaxed and
welcoming setting -this is worlds away from an old age home.”
ends McKenzie.
SOURCE Nova Stella
SA Real Estate Investor Magazine AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 47
 INVESTOR INTELLIGENCE
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48 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020 SA Real Estate Investor Magazine
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