How enforceable is that restraint of trade really?
"We recently interviewed a software engineer for a position at our company. In the interview it came to light that the engineer had just left the employ of one of our main competitors and that he was bound by a restraint of trade in terms of his previous employment...
Why a Fidelity Fund Certificate is important for you and your estate agent
“I’ve finally received my qualification to practise as an estate agent, but am still waiting for my Fidelity Fund Certificate. Some people say I can start practising as an estate agent as long as I’ve applied for my Fidelity Fund Certificate. Is this correct, and can...
Can I ignore the notice of demand if delivered at the wrong address?
“I signed a personal guarantee for my company with a credit provider. The company has defaulted on payments and the credit provider now sent me a notice demanding payment under the guarantee. However, they sent it to the company office and not to my domicile address...
The Rental Housing Amendment Act: What you need to know
There has been quite a buzz over the past few months regarding the Rental Housing Amendment Act, in the belief that a date will soon be set for the implementation of this new legislation. This is according to Tobie Fourie, national rentals manager for the Chas Everitt...
Why boosting tourism will benefit SA’s property market
During the recent SONA, President Ramaphosa announced that further support would be given to the tourism sector to market South Africa and double the number of foreign tourists to 21 million a year by 2030 - a goal that could have major implications for property. A...
Hidden costs when using set-fee estate agencies
Low-cost real estate agencies have been making an undeniable splash in the media recently. With the cost of living for South Africans rising every day, it’s certainly refreshing to see a service that claims to be dropping prices rather than increasing them. Like many...
The underlying agreements may determine whether the National Credit Act applies to your transaction
“My company rents out large construction equipment to developers. One developer has fallen behind in its rental payments. Using the shareholder sureties, we hold we have negotiated a settlement agreement for the outstanding rentals and interest with the developer, but...
Can I institute legal action on behalf of my body corporate?
“I live in a sectional title that used to have beautiful common property areas. The last year or two though, owners have been causing damage to these garden areas and walkways and the body corporate is doing nothing to stop it. Can I take legal action against the...
Property market outlook flat as we head towards May elections
While we wait for the conclusion of the May elections and the economy to take a positive turn that we are all anticipating, it would be remiss not to continue cautioning that economic and property market recovery will take time. This is according to Samuel, chairman...
Estate agents must embrace ongoing training and development
With the EAAB (Estate Agency Affairs Board) clamping down on agents trading in the real estate industry who have not renewed or ever applied for their Fidelity Fund Certificates (FFC), as well as disqualifying agents for noncompliance with their Continuing...