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Harcourts South Africa 2018 Budget Reaction

Feb 22, 2018 3:13:30 AM Share this:

Overall it was a far more balanced budget speech than initially expected, with a focus on rebuilding, which is in line with the newly elected President Cyril Ramaphosa's messaging. However, Finance Minister Gigaba's announcement that there will be an increase in VAT from 14% to 15%, the first time VAT has been increased since 1993, will undoubtedly have a direct impact on the property market. VAT is payable on the transaction of a home purchase and in some cases included in the price of the home. Although one percent seems like a very slight increase, transactions like high value commercial properties or development investments might feel the increase far more than that of the middle to lower end of the market.

There is no doubt Government is experiencing shortfalls in their budget and lending might tighten up, therefore accumulation of funds has to originate from taxes. South Africans experiencing a price pinch with rising food costs, fuel costs and tax hikes might continue to be under financial pressure as more increases can be expected. This was noted in the speech as a 22c/litre increase in the general fuel levy, and a 30c/litre rise in the Road Accident Fund (RAF) levy was announced. South Africans will also be paying 52 cents more per litre for fuel from April 4. The effect of these tax hikes impacts the man on the street in a direct manner, and this might have an effect on the rental market on the lower end.


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Topics: 2018 budget, Cyril Ramaphosa, economical news

Economic stability facilitates growth

Feb 19, 2018 7:52:47 PM Share this:

The political climate in South Africa has been under the microscope in recent times as Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa took over the reigns as leader of the ruling party. The Rand immediately gained traction in the days following his appointment and has remained positive since.

There appears to be a shift in political messaging with the intention hopefully being to restore confidence in our markets for foreign and local investors.

It is essential that Government avoid volatile political decisions that affect our economy and influence public economic perception. Despite Harcourts recording an incredibly successful 2017, many sectors of the property market experienced stagnation and a decline in activity

There are many factors that influence buyers and sellers willingness to engage in real estate transactions, however, to a large extent buyers and sellers gauge potential success on general reports and opinions of the market, especially in an emerging market.

Real estate is an investment, and for most it will be the single largest investment of our lives, so it is understandable that we consider all the external elements before committing. This ideology spills over into other forms of investment too, especially commercial real estate, which assists greatly in business growth and entrepreneurship. When the private sector remains a little apprehensive to invest in real estate - business growth and employment are directly affected.

It is with this in mind that Government needs to aim for stability over the short term. Ensuring our markets remain steady enough to avoid fluctuations that either put our consumers under pressure with rising costs or deter extensive capital investment.

Statement by


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Topics: Cyril Ramaphosa, economical news