COVID effects on the property market and South African investment positivity

Apr 9, 2021 8:58:55 PM Share this:

It is difficult to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy when so many people experienced personal loss and trauma during this time. But then you think about it for a minute and consider the impact the virus has had on our livelihoods and business operations as well, and then only does the entire picture come into view.  With that being said, why then has the real estate market not only been able to stay buoyant but, in contradiction to earlier predictions, show immense activity and growth during the past year.


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Topics: Selling, Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, Property Markets, Property and Investments, COVID-19

COVID effects on the property market and South African investment positivity

Mar 11, 2021 10:34:06 PM Share this:

It is difficult to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy when so many people experienced personal loss and trauma during this time. But then you think about it for a minute and consider the impact the virus has had on our livelihoods and business operations as well, and then only does the entire picture come into view.  With that being said, why then has the real estate market not only been able to stay buoyant but, in contradiction to earlier predictions, show immense activity and growth during the past year.


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Topics: Selling, Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, Interest Rates, COVID-19

Ballito continues to showcase impressive growth in the property market

Feb 4, 2021 11:45:18 PM Share this:

Once known as a quiet seaside town, Ballito has become a hustling and bustling coastal location that has somehow managed to retain its community-orientated feel.


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Topics: Selling, Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, Rental Market, JP Pienaar, Harcourts Dolphin Coast

How buyers can gain leverage in a seller’s market

Oct 13, 2020 1:17:54 AM Share this:

Many areas are experiencing a hot real estate market and have shifted to a seller’s market. This is despite the COVID-19 pandemic or perhaps because of it, as well as the subsequent record low-interest rates. While current conditions are prime for sellers, they can make the process more challenging for property buyers. Navigating a seller's market can seem daunting for prospective buyers, however, they can still position themselves for success and zero in on their ideal property. 


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Topics: Buying, Richard Gray, Real Estate Agents, Harcourts Real Estate, First time homeowner, COVID-19

Proptech industry propelled into action during COVID-19 pandemic

Oct 5, 2020 10:28:02 PM Share this:

The Proptech, or property technology industry, is experiencing a massive push by the coronavirus pandemic, with companies implementing and investigating technology-backed solutions to combat ongoing challenges. The proptech value chain as a whole has always depended on whether the country is equipped to transition into a more technologically-driven system, however, COVID-19 didn’t lend itself to choice.  


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Topics: Richard Gray, Real Estate Agents, Harcourts Real Estate, COVID-19, Proptech

Real Estate, a major industry offering constant working opportunities

Sep 25, 2020 9:31:03 PM Share this:

Real estate is a major industry and an everlasting commodity, offering vast sales opportunities. While change is a constant occurrence in the property market, and 2020 has brought its fair share, the industry itself will always remain relevant. For people considering a career in real estate, the future of the realm as a whole provides real promise. The sector continues to guarantee a ‘hereafter’, despite challenges due to the pandemic.


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Topics: Careers, Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, harcourts careers, Real Estate Agents

Port Elizabeth - investment opportunity due to pandemic-induced market

Sep 21, 2020 9:43:15 PM Share this:

Real estate in the Port Elizabeth region is a burgeoning market in unprecedented times. As a whole, the property industry has experienced many unforeseen changes due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, including a record-low interest rate. By far the most surprising development has been the dramatic switch to a seller’s market. With many people seeking refuge in quieter cities, as well as a growing desire for simpler lifestyles, investing in the PE property market could provide an ideal solution. 


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Topics: Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, Property Investment, COVID-19, Port Elizabeth, Harcourts Beachfront, Nikki Strooh

Residential rental market experiencing COVID-19 induced pressure

Sep 15, 2020 11:38:55 PM Share this:

South African Residential rental market is currently experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 economic situation. The latest PayProp Rental Index for Q2 2020 shows the first indications brought on by the pandemic and subsequent lockdown. With unfavourable effects on rental levels, growth and non-payments in the country, as well as widespread household financial pressure – the rental market is likely to follow this trend into the near future. 


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Topics: Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, Interest Rates, Rental Market, COVID-19

Recent CX reveals that Harcourts South Africa is at the forefront of customer service

Aug 28, 2020 7:50:28 PM Share this:

Harcourts South Africa continues to raise the bar on customer service levels in the real estate industry. In a customer experience (CX) survey conducted recently, the majority of the responses rated our agents 10/10. 


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Topics: Richard Gray, Harcourts South Africa, Customer Feedback, Real Estate Agents, customer service, CX

Optimum Real Estate Market As 100% Home Loan Approval Rises

Aug 21, 2020 1:22:24 AM Share this:

Applications for 100% home loans have seen an increase recently, with a greater extent being approved. At the same time, interests rates have dropped to 7% and are experiencing their lowest level in almost five decades. This climate could potentially offer the perfect conditions for first-time homebuyers, as well as property investors that have the desire and option to invest.


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Topics: Richard Gray, Home Loan, Harcourts Real Estate, Home Loan Application, COVID-19